Concrete Staining 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 staining cost is driven less by the stain itself than by surface preparation and the desired decorative effect. Existing coatings, oil contamination, cracks, moisture, multiple colors, masking, and sealer requirements can move Southern California projects toward the high end.

Typical range: $5–$16 per square foot — Southern California (2026 pricing)

What moves the price

Surface preparation — Degreasing, grinding, coating removal, crack treatment, and profile correction can exceed the labor needed to apply the stain.
Stain system and design — Single-color water-based stain is generally less costly than acid stain, layered colors, borders, scoring, or artistic effects.
Surface condition and moisture — Contamination, efflorescence, curing compounds, patching, and moisture-vapor issues can affect adhesion and appearance.
Sealer and protection — Sealer type, slip-resistant additives, number of coats, masking, and occupied-area protection affect labor and materials.
Project size and access — Small rooms, stairs, edges, furniture moving, and limited ventilation create high mobilization and detail costs per square foot.