Abstract The current investigation is an attempt to perform the strength and durability studies on slag cement concrete prepared by using copper slag (CS) as a fractional/full replacement for natural fine aggregates (FNA). Tests were performed for compressive strength, split tensile strength, acid attack, sulfate attack, water absorption, and voids. The degree of replacement of natural fine aggregates with copper slag was put at 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% by volume. A control mix containing 100% natural fine aggregates were also prepared for comparison. The strength and durability of slag cement concrete mixes having varying copper slag content were analyzed based on the results. A considerable rise in compressive strength of concrete having a 40% copper slag fraction when compared to control was also observed. However, compressive strength declined beyond 40% substitution as a result of excess free water and was lowest for 100% substitution. The tensile strength exhibited similar behavior to that of compressive strength. On acid and sulfate exposure, change in mass accompanied by a reduction in compressive strength was shown by all concrete mixes. The results showed a decrement in water absorption with an increment in copper slag fraction up to 40% of natural fine aggregates. On further increment in copper slag fraction, a rapid increase in absorption was observed due to an increase in void content in concrete. Water absorption showed a similar trend to that of percentage voids. Therefore, the use of copper slag up to 40% fraction of natural fine aggregates is recommended to derive a concrete with sound strength and durability characteristics.