Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | $15 – $45 |
| Cost Per Linear Foot (3’ to 6’ Tall) | $45 – $270 |
| Average Total Cost (50’ Wall) | $3,000 – $10,000 |
Concrete retaining walls are a durable and functional option for landscaping and structural support. Understanding the costs involved in building a concrete retaining wall can help you plan your project effectively.
Concrete Retaining Wall Cost
The cost of a concrete retaining wall varies based on the length, height, and type of wall. Below is a breakdown of average costs:
| Wall Length (Linear Feet) | Concrete-Block Walls Cost | Poured-Concrete Walls Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10’ | $450 – $2,100 | $600 – $2,700 |
| 20’ | $900 – $4,200 | $1,200 – $5,400 |
| 30’ | $1,350 – $6,300 | $1,800 – $8,100 |
| 40’ | $1,800 – $8,400 | $2,400 – $10,800 |
| 50’ | $2,250 – $10,500 | $3,000 – $13,500 |
| 100’ | $4,500 – $21,000 | $6,000 – $27,000 |
| 150’ | $6,750 – $31,500 | $9,000 – $40,500 |
| 200’ | $9,000 – $42,000 | $12,000 – $54,000 |
Concrete Retaining Wall Cost Calculator
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $6,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $2,250 |
| Maximum Cost | $13,500 |
| Average Cost Range | $3,000 – $10,000 |
Poured Concrete Retaining Wall Cost
Poured concrete retaining walls are known for their durability and design flexibility. The cost ranges from $20 to $45 per square foot.
Stamped Concrete Retaining Wall Cost
Stamped concrete retaining walls add a decorative touch by mimicking the look of stone or brick. This option typically costs more due to the additional labor and materials required.
Poured Concrete Walls vs. Block Wall Cost
| Factor | Poured Concrete Wall | Block Wall |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $20 – $45 per square foot | $20 – $35 per square foot |
| Pros | Easy to build, highly durable, faster installation, more design options, strong resistance to lateral water pressure, less prone to leaks, waterproofs easily | High compression strength, easier to transport, costs less to send to remote locations, holds more weight than poured concrete |
| Cons | More site preparation, expensive to transport long distances | Slower installation, prone to water leaks, buckling, and bowing, expensive to repair, requires skilled labor |
Precast Concrete Retaining Walls Cost
Precast concrete retaining walls are manufactured off-site and then installed on your property. This method offers a range of styles and faster installation times.
Precast Concrete Retaining Walls Installation Prices
| Material Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Modular Interlocking | $15 – $35 | $45 – $210 |
| Large Concrete Blocks (2’ to 6’ Wide) | $20 – $45 | $60 – $270 |
| Concrete Cinder Blocks (CMU) | $20 – $35 | $60 – $210 |
| Precast-Concrete Panels | $25 – $40 | $75 – $240 |
Modular-Interlocking Retaining Wall Blocks Prices
| Brand | Cost Per Block |
|---|---|
| Allan Block | $5 – $10 |
| Belgard | $3 – $6 |
| Keystone | $7 – $9 |
| Pavestone | $2 – $5 |
| Unilock | $4 – $9 |
| Versa-Lok | $4 – $10 |
Large Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks Cost
Large concrete blocks are ideal for heavy-duty retaining walls. They offer substantial weight and stability.
CMU or Cinder Block Retaining Wall Cost
Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) or cinder blocks are commonly used for retaining walls due to their durability and cost-effectiveness.
Concrete Precast Panel Wall Cost
Precast concrete panels provide a seamless and modern look for retaining walls. They are durable and easy to install.
Concrete Bag Retaining Wall Cost
Concrete bag retaining walls are an economical option for smaller projects. The bags are filled with concrete and stacked to form a wall.
| Wall Size | Concrete Bags Needed | Material Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10’x3’ | 50 | $150 – $250 |
| 25’x3’ | 120 | $360 – $600 |
| 50’x3’ | 235 | $700 – $1,200 |
Cost Factors to Install a Concrete Retaining Wall
Several factors influence the cost of installing a concrete retaining wall, including materials, labor, and design complexity.
Cost to Install a Concrete Retaining Wall
| Factor | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Blocks and Materials | $12 – $120 |
| Construction Labor | $33 – $90 |
| Total Cost | $45 – $210 |
Cost of Concrete Blocks for Retaining Walls
| Block Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Cost Per Block |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete Cinder Blocks (CMU) | $1.35 – $2.75 | $1.25 – $2.50 |
| Interlocking-Concrete Blocks (1’ to 3’ Wide) | $4.00 – $20.00 | $2.00 – $10.00 |
| Large Concrete Blocks (2’ to 6’ Wide) | $6.00 – $9.00 | $25.00 – $100.00 |
Labor Cost to Build a Concrete Retaining Wall
| Wall Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Concrete Cinder Blocks | $10 – $17 |
| Interlocking-Concrete Blocks | $10 – $25 |
| Poured Concrete | $10 – $15 |
Concrete Retaining Wall FAQs
How Long Do Concrete Retaining Walls Last?
Concrete retaining walls can last 50 to 100 years with proper construction and maintenance.
Can You Stain Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks?
Yes, concrete retaining wall blocks can be stained to enhance their appearance and match your landscaping design.
How Deep Does a Concrete Retaining Wall Need to Be?
The depth of a concrete retaining wall depends on its height and the soil conditions. Generally, the footing should be one-third of the wall’s height.
How Thick Is a Concrete Retaining Wall?
The thickness of a concrete retaining wall varies based on the wall’s height and the soil load it needs to support. A typical thickness ranges from 6 to 12 inches.
Hiring Concrete Retaining Wall Contractors
When hiring a contractor for your concrete retaining wall project, consider the following tips:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare prices and services from different contractors.
- Check References: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in building concrete retaining walls.
- Ask About Customization: See if they offer custom solutions to meet your specific needs.
Questions to Ask Retaining Wall Builders
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide references from similar projects?
- What services are included in your standard package?
- Do you offer any specialized retaining wall designs?
- What are your rates for additional services?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or additional requests?
Concrete Retaining Wall Cost Summary
Concrete retaining walls offer a durable and attractive solution for landscaping and structural support. By understanding the costs, benefits, and available options, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.
For more information on retaining walls and to explore other cost-related guides, visit our detailed articles on concrete driveway cost and concrete patio cost.
