Concrete Core Drilling Cost

Name: Western Concrete, Stucco, and Hardscapes
Address: 333 City Blvd. W., Ste 300, Orange, CA, 92868, US
Telephone: +1-714-269-5251
Price range: $$

Concrete core drilling creates a round opening through a slab, wall, footing, or other concrete element for plumbing, electrical, ventilation, or similar penetrations. Southern California costs vary by hole diameter and depth, concrete strength and reinforcement, drilling orientation, access, scanning requirements, water and slurry control, and the number of holes.

Typical range: $250–$900 per hole — Southern California (2026 pricing)

What moves the price

Hole diameter and depth — Larger-diameter or deeper penetrations require larger bits, more drilling time, and heavier equipment.
Concrete and reinforcement — High-strength concrete, thick sections, dense reinforcing steel, or embedded plates increase bit wear and drilling time.
Drilling orientation and access — Overhead, horizontal, elevated, confined, or difficult-to-reach drilling requires additional setup, supports, and safety measures.
Scanning and utility avoidance — Ground-penetrating radar or other scanning may be needed to locate reinforcing steel, conduits, post-tension tendons, and utilities.
Water and slurry containment — Occupied interiors, finished spaces, and environmentally sensitive areas require collection, protection, cleanup, and controlled disposal.