How many tons of asphalt do I need?

Multiply the volume in cubic feet by ~145 lb/ft³, then divide by 2,000. A typical driveway runs 8–12 tons.

How thick should an asphalt driveway be?

2–3 inches of compacted asphalt over a solid base for residential driveways; 4+ inches for heavier vehicles.

How much does a ton of asphalt cover?

At 2 inches thick, one ton covers roughly 80 sq ft; at 3 inches, about 54 sq ft.

Asphalt Cost in California

Local 2026 pricing for California

Asphalt costs in California run roughly 28% above the national average. California's labor costs, permits, and stormwater rules push asphalt paving above average, especially in coastal counties.

Your measurements

Length(ft)

Width(ft)

Thickness(in)

2–3 in for driveways, 4+ for heavy loads.

Density(lb/ft³)

Compacted hot-mix asphalt ≈ 145 lb/ft³.

Price per ton($/ton)

Enter your measurements

Fill in the fields to see your estimate.

Why California prices differ

California's labor costs, permits, and stormwater rules push asphalt paving above average, especially in coastal counties.

Project size — larger driveway & paving jobs lower the cost per unit but raise the total.
Material grade — premium products cost more but often last longer.
Labor rates — local wages and demand swing installed prices significantly.
Region — prices vary by state and metro (see local cost pages below).

Estimates are guidance only — get quotes from local driveway & paving pros in California. See the national cost breakdown →