A paver patio typically runs $10–$25 per square foot installed, depending on paver type (standard concrete pavers at the low end, clay brick or natural stone higher), site prep, and labor in your area. A common 12×16 ft (192 sq ft) patio therefore lands around $1,900–$4,800 installed.
Where the money goes: labor is usually 50–70% of the total. Materials — pavers, 4–6 in of compacted gravel base, 1 in of bedding sand, and edge restraints — make up the rest. Doing the install yourself can cut the cost roughly in half, but it’s heavy, precise work.
Use the paver patio calculator to size up exactly how many pavers, how much gravel base and bedding sand, and how much edging you’ll need, then get 2–3 quotes.
Ways to save: choose standard concrete pavers over stone, keep the shape simple (fewer cuts), and tackle excavation/base prep yourself even if you hire out the paver laying.