How Much Does a New Asphalt Driveway Cost in Minnesota?
- Mitch Frye
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
If you're a homeowner in Minnesota considering a new asphalt driveway, one of the first questions you probably have is: "How much will it cost?" At John & Jerry's, we've installed hundreds of driveways across the state — from city lots to long rural stretches — and we're here to break down exactly what goes into the price and how to get the most value for your money.
💰 Average Cost of an Asphalt Driveway in Minnesota
Standard asphalt driveway (2-car, 600–800 sq ft):$3,800 – $7,000
Per square foot installed:$5 to $9, depending on site conditions, base work, and location
Large/rural driveways:$10,000+, especially if grading and gravel base work is needed
🛠️ Quick Tip: The biggest price factor is site preparation. Uneven terrain, poor soil, or an existing cracked driveway can increase the cost due to extra labor and materials.
📊 Asphalt vs Concrete: Cost Comparison in Minnesota
Feature | Asphalt | Concrete |
Initial Cost | $5–$9 per sq ft | $8–$15 per sq ft |
Appearance | Smooth, black | Grey or colored |
Cold Climate Impact | Expands/contracts well | Prone to cracking |
Repairs | Easy and cheap | Costly and harder to match |
Lifespan | 15–25 years (sealed) | 25–30 years (if maintained) |
✅ For Minnesota’s freeze-thaw climate, asphalt is often the smarter choice — especially when combined with regular sealcoating.
🔍 What Factors Affect Driveway Cost?
Size & ShapeA wider, curved, or sloped driveway increases labor and materials.
Tear-Out of Existing DrivewayRemoving old concrete or asphalt adds $1,000–$3,000.
Grading & Base PrepAdding crushed gravel, compacting, and drainage may add $500–$3,000.
ThicknessStandard residential asphalt is 2–3 inches thick. Heavier loads require 4 inches or more.
LocationRural areas may have additional delivery fees or longer labor times.
⏳ How Long Does Asphalt Last in Minnesota?
With proper installation and sealcoating every 2–3 years, an asphalt driveway can last 15–25 years in Minnesota. Cracks will eventually form due to our cold winters, but timely patching and sealing go a long way.
🛡️ Should You Seal Your New Driveway?
Absolutely. Asphalt is porous and can degrade under UV rays, snow melt, and salt. We recommend sealing it:
6–12 months after installation
Every 2–3 years after that
Ask John & Jerry’s about our driveway maintenance packages to extend the life of your investment.
📍 Serving All of Minnesota
We proudly install and maintain driveways across:
Minneapolis / St. Paul
Duluth
St. Cloud
Cloquet
Brainerd
Rochester…and everywhere in between.
📞 Get a Free Estimate from John & Jerry’s
Want an accurate quote based on your property? We’ll walk the site, assess your soil, and provide a no-pressure custom quote — usually within 24 hours.
👉 Call us or request an estimate online today.John & Jerry’s – Honest Asphalt and Concrete Work. Minnesota Tough.
🤖 Frequently Asked Questions
How long before I can drive on a new asphalt driveway?Typically 3–5 days depending on weather and thickness.
Can you install a driveway in winter?It’s possible in late fall with ideal conditions, but we recommend spring through early fall for best results.
Do I need a permit for a new driveway?Many Minnesota cities do require permits. We’ll handle that for you as part of the job.
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