Gravel Cost: How Much Is A Cubic Yard Of Gravel?

The gravel cost per cubic yard can range from $20 to $60, depending on the type of gravel, location, and any additional services like delivery. So, to answer the question directly, the cubic yard of gravel price is typically between $20 and $60.

Deciphering the Cost of Gravel Per Yard

When you’re planning a project that involves gravel, whether it’s a new driveway, a decorative garden path, or a base for a patio, knowing the cost upfront is crucial. Many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts often ask, “How much is a cubic yard of gravel?” The answer isn’t a single number, as several factors influence the price. This guide will help you navigate the world of gravel pricing, from understanding the different types to calculating your total expenses.

Factors Influencing Gravel Prices

Several key elements contribute to the final cost of gravel per yard. It’s not just about the raw material; it’s about the entire process from quarry to your project site.

Type of Gravel: This is perhaps the most significant factor. Different types of gravel have varying geological origins, processing methods, and aesthetic qualities, all of which affect their price. We’ll delve into common types later.
Location: Prices can vary significantly by region. Areas with abundant local quarries might have lower prices due to reduced transportation costs. Conversely, if gravel needs to be shipped long distances, the price will naturally increase. This is why searching for “gravel for sale near me” is a smart first step.
Quality and Purity: Higher-quality gravel, often with specific grading or a cleaner composition, will command a higher price. For instance, gravel used in specialized construction or decorative applications might be more expensive than basic fill material.
Quantity Purchased: Buying in bulk often leads to lower per-unit costs. This is especially true when purchasing large quantities for extensive projects like driveways or landscaping. Bulk gravel prices are generally more favorable than buying small bags.
Delivery Fees: Unless you have a truck capable of hauling significant amounts of gravel, you’ll likely need to factor in delivery costs. These fees are usually calculated based on distance and the volume of gravel being delivered.
Seasonality: In some regions, gravel prices might fluctuate slightly depending on the season. Construction and landscaping are often busier in warmer months, which could lead to minor price adjustments.

Common Types of Gravel and Their Prices

The world of gravel is diverse, offering options for every need and budget. Understanding the different types of gravel and prices can help you make an informed decision.

1. Pea Gravel

Description: Pea gravel consists of small, smooth, rounded stones, typically ranging from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch in diameter. Its name comes from its resemblance to peas. It’s often available in various natural colors like tan, grey, and brown.
Uses: Popular for decorative landscaping, pathways, dog runs, mulch for flower beds, and around trees. It’s also used in playgrounds and for drainage around foundations.
Price Range: Typically $25 – $50 per cubic yard.

2. Crusher Run Gravel (or Road Base Gravel)

Description: This is a mixture of crushed stone, gravel, and fine stone dust. It’s angular and compacts well, making it ideal for creating a stable base. The size of the aggregate can vary.
Uses: Primarily used as a base material for driveways, patios, under pavers, and for building roads and parking lots. It’s also used for backfill.
Price Range: Generally $20 – $40 per cubic yard. This is often one of the most cost-effective options for large areas.

3. Limestone Gravel

Description: Limestone gravel is a crushed stone product derived from limestone rock. It’s known for its light grey to white color and its ability to compact firmly.
Uses: Excellent for driveways, pathways, and as a base layer for construction projects. It’s also sometimes used for decorative purposes.
Price Range: Typically $30 – $55 per cubic yard.

4. Granite Gravel

Description: Granite gravel is crushed granite rock, known for its durability and attractive speckled appearance, often in shades of grey, pink, and black.
Uses: Widely used for driveways, landscaping, decorative borders, and pathways. It’s very durable and weathers well.
Price Range: Can range from $35 – $60 per cubic yard, reflecting its strength and aesthetic appeal.

5. River Rock

Description: River rock refers to smooth, rounded stones that have been naturally tumbled by water. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors.
Uses: Highly sought after for decorative landscaping, dry creek beds, garden borders, around pools, and as a decorative top dressing.
Price Range: Generally $40 – $70 per cubic yard, often higher than crushed gravel due to its natural aesthetic and less processing required, but the sourcing and transport can also be factors.

6. Decomposed Granite

Description: This is granite that has been weathered and broken down into smaller particles, resembling coarse sand with some gravelly bits. It’s dusty when dry and can become firm when compacted and slightly damp.
Uses: Popular for walking paths, patios, and natural-looking landscaping in arid regions.
Price Range: Typically $30 – $50 per cubic yard.

How Many Pounds in a Cubic Yard of Gravel?

Knowing the weight of a cubic yard of gravel is essential for planning transportation and ensuring your project can support the load. The weight of a cubic yard of gravel depends heavily on the type of stone and its moisture content.

A general rule of thumb is that how many pounds in a cubic yard of gravel is approximately 2,000 to 2,800 pounds (or 1 to 1.4 tons).

Here’s a breakdown for common types:

Crushed Stone/Gravel: Around 2,200 – 2,800 lbs per cubic yard.
Pea Gravel/River Rock: Lighter, around 2,000 – 2,500 lbs per cubic yard due to rounded shapes and potential for more air space.
Sand/Decomposed Granite: Can be heavier, around 2,500 – 3,000 lbs per cubic yard due to denser packing.

Always check with your supplier for specific weight estimates for the type of gravel you are purchasing.

Estimating Your Gravel Needs

Before you start looking for “gravel for sale near me,” you need to figure out how much you need. This involves a bit of simple math.

Calculating Volume

Measure your area: Determine the length and width of the space you need to cover with gravel.
Determine the depth: Decide how deep you want the gravel layer to be. For driveways, 4-6 inches is common. For pathways or decorative areas, 2-4 inches might suffice. Convert this depth to feet (e.g., 4 inches = 0.33 feet, 6 inches = 0.5 feet).
Calculate the cubic feet: Multiply length (in feet) x width (in feet) x depth (in feet).
- Example: A driveway area is 20 feet long and 10 feet wide, and you want a depth of 4 inches (0.33 feet).
  - Volume = 20 ft x 10 ft x 0.33 ft = 66 cubic feet.

Converting Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards

Since gravel is typically sold by the cubic yard, you need to convert your cubic feet measurement. There are 27 cubic feet in 1 cubic yard.

Divide your cubic feet by 27.
- Example continued: 66 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/cubic yard = 2.44 cubic yards.

Pro Tip: It’s always wise to order a little extra – about 10% – to account for settling, spillage, and uneven distribution. In our example, 2.44 cubic yards + 10% (0.24 cubic yards) = 2.68 cubic yards. You’d likely round up to 3 cubic yards.

The Impact of Gravel Delivery Cost

The convenience of having gravel delivered to your doorstep comes with an associated cost. Gravel delivery cost is a significant part of the overall expense, especially for smaller projects or if you’re far from a supplier.

Factors Affecting Delivery Costs:
- Distance: The further the delivery location is from the gravel yard, the higher the cost.
- Volume: Larger loads might have a flat delivery fee or a per-ton/cubic yard fee.
- Truck Type: Some suppliers use smaller trucks for tighter access, which might have different pricing.
- Delivery Time: Emergency or weekend deliveries can sometimes incur extra charges.
Typical Delivery Fees: Delivery fees can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the factors above. Some suppliers offer free delivery for very large orders. It’s essential to get a quote that includes delivery when comparing prices.

Landscaping Gravel Prices vs. Driveway Gravel Cost

While both are types of gravel, landscaping gravel prices and driveway gravel cost can differ due to their intended use and the specific properties required.

Landscaping Gravel: This category often includes more decorative options like pea gravel, river rock, and colored gravel. Their prices are generally higher due to their aesthetic appeal and the desire for specific colors, shapes, and sizes. The quantity needed for landscaping projects might also be smaller compared to driveways.
Driveway Gravel: For driveways, functionality and durability are paramount. Crusher run gravel, road base, or compacted limestone are common choices. These materials are chosen for their ability to compact and form a stable, load-bearing surface. As such, they are often more budget-friendly per cubic yard, especially when purchased in bulk. The driveway gravel cost needs to be viewed in conjunction with the longevity and performance it provides.

Where to Find Gravel: Looking for “Gravel for Sale Near Me”

The best way to get competitive pricing is to find local suppliers. Here’s how to find “gravel for sale near me“:

Local Landscape Supply Yards: These are often the best source for a variety of gravel types for landscaping and smaller construction projects.
Quarries and Aggregate Suppliers: For larger quantities, especially for driveways or commercial projects, direct suppliers and quarries might offer better bulk gravel prices.
Home Improvement Stores: While convenient for small bags of decorative gravel, they are generally more expensive for bulk purchases.
Online Search Engines: Use terms like “gravel supplier [your city/zip code],” “landscape rock delivery,” or “crushed stone [your area].”
Local Classifieds and Marketplaces: Sometimes, smaller operations or individuals might sell gravel.

Tips for Buying Gravel

Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first price you find. Contact several suppliers to compare prices, including delivery fees.
Know Your Needs: Be precise about the type, quantity, and desired depth of gravel for your project.
Ask About Quality: Inquire about the source and processing of the gravel. For driveways, ask about compaction qualities.
Consider Bulk Discounts: If you need a large amount, explore the savings associated with buying in bulk.
Check Delivery Options: Ensure the supplier can deliver to your location and understand all associated fees.
Inspect the Gravel (if possible): If you’re buying a large quantity, visiting the yard to see the gravel in person can be beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gravel Costs

Q1: What is the cheapest type of gravel?
A1: Generally, crusher run gravel or road base gravel is the cheapest option per cubic yard, as it’s a byproduct of crushing larger stone and is primarily used for structural purposes rather than aesthetics.

Q2: Can I pick up gravel myself?
A2: Yes, many gravel suppliers allow you to pick up the material yourself if you have a suitable truck or trailer. This can save on delivery costs. Be sure to know the weight limit of your vehicle and the approximate weight of the gravel you intend to haul.

Q3: How much gravel do I need for a 10×10 patio?
A3: For a standard patio depth of 4 inches (0.33 feet), a 10×10 area requires approximately 1.23 cubic yards (10 ft x 10 ft x 0.33 ft = 33 cubic feet; 33 / 27 = 1.23). It’s recommended to round up to 1.5 cubic yards to account for settling and potential waste.

Q4: Does gravel settle over time?
A4: Yes, gravel does settle over time, especially under traffic or after rain. This is why it’s always recommended to purchase slightly more than your calculated amount.

Q5: Are there hidden costs when buying gravel?
A5: The most common additional cost is delivery. Always confirm the total price, including any delivery fees, before placing an order. Some suppliers might also charge extra for specific delivery locations (e.g., tight access areas).

By carefully considering the type of gravel, your project’s specific needs, and all associated costs, you can effectively budget for your gravel project and achieve the desired results.