Concrete pavers vs natural stone — which is cheaper for a patio?

Concrete pavers are 30–50% cheaper than natural stone for an installed patio. Typical 2026 installed pricing: concrete pavers $10–$22/sqft, bluestone or limestone $20–$40/sqft, travertine $18–$35/sqft. A 300 sqft patio: $3K–$6.5K in concrete pavers, $6K–$12K in natural stone. Concrete pavers have caught up dramatically on aesthetics in the last decade (textured, color-blended faces look convincing as natural stone from 6 feet away). Natural stone wins on longevity (100+ years), heat resistance, and resale wow-factor for high-end homes. Avoid 'stamped concrete' below $8/sqft — it cracks within 5–10 years in freeze-thaw climates.