Learn: How Much Does Gravel Cost Per Yard in 2024?

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Learn: How Much Does Gravel Cost Per Yard in 2024?

Looking to buy gravel for a project? You might ask, “How much does gravel cost per yard?” In 2024, the price per cubic yard of gravel typically falls between $30 and $75. But this is just a starting point. Many things change this cost, like the type of gravel, where it comes from, how much you need, and if you need it delivered. This guide will help you figure out what gravel you need and how much it might cost.

About a Cubic Yard of Gravel

What does a cubic yard of gravel look like? Think of a box that is 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet tall. That box holds one cubic yard.

A cubic yard of gravel weighs a lot. It usually weighs between 2,400 and 3,000 pounds. This is about 1.2 to 1.5 tons. The weight changes based on the type of stone and if it’s wet or dry.

Most stone yards and suppliers sell gravel by the cubic yard or by the ton. Knowing how much a cubic yard weighs helps you compare gravel prices per ton to prices per cubic yard.

Average Cost Ranges for Gravel in 2024

Let’s talk about money. How much will you pay for that cubic yard?

The basic cost for one cubic yard of plain gravel, picked up at the quarry or stone yard, is often in the $30 to $75 range.

If you buy gravel prices per ton, the cost is usually $20 to $60 per ton.

Remember, these are just averages. The final cost depends on many things.

Things That Change the Cost of Gravel

Several factors make the price go up or down. Let’s look at them.

Different Kinds of Gravel Costs

Gravel isn’t just one thing. It comes in many types, sizes, and colors. The type you pick is a big part of the cost.

• Crushed Stone: This is rock that machines have broken into pieces. It has sharp edges. It packs down well. Crushed stone cost per yard varies a lot based on size and type of rock (like granite, limestone, or trap rock). Smaller crushed stone (like 3/4 inch) might be cheaper than larger sizes or special types.
• Pea Gravel: This is small, round stone, about the size of a pea. It’s smooth because water has worn it down over time. The cost of pea gravel is often a bit higher than basic crushed stone because it’s screened to get the round shape and specific size. It’s popular for paths, patios, and playgrounds.
• River Rock: This is larger, smooth stone often used for landscape rock prices. It comes in different sizes and colors. Larger sizes and special colors cost more.
• Drainage Gravel: This is usually clean crushed stone (no fine dust) that lets water pass through easily. Size matters, but it’s generally priced like other crushed stone.
• Specialty Gravel: This includes decorative stones, gravel in special colors, or gravel made from recycled materials. These types often cost more because they are harder to get or need extra work.

Size and Color Matter

Smaller gravel sizes are sometimes cheaper because they are easier to make. But very fine material (like stone dust) can also cost less. Mid-range sizes (like 3/4 inch or 1 inch) are common and often in the average price range. Larger sizes or special screening can raise the price.

Natural gray or white gravel is usually the cheapest. Colors like red, black, or brown cost more. These stones might come from specific places or be washed to make the color stand out.

Where the Gravel Comes From

The location of the quarry or supplier is very important. If the gravel is dug up nearby, it costs less to move it. If it has to travel a long way by truck or train, the cost goes up because of fuel and transport fees.

Local supply can keep gravel prices lower. Suppliers further away mean higher costs.

How Much Gravel You Need

Buying more gravel at once usually means a lower price per yard or per ton. This is called buying in bulk. Bulk gravel delivery cost is usually for larger amounts, like 10 cubic yards or more.

• Small amounts (bags): Very expensive per yard or ton. Good for small jobs.
• Medium amounts (few yards): Higher price per yard than bulk, but lower than bags.
• Bulk amounts (truckloads): Lowest price per yard or ton. Best for big jobs like driveways or large landscape areas.

Suppliers often have different price lists for small orders versus bulk orders.

Delivery Cost for Gravel

This is often a big part of the total cost. Delivery cost for gravel depends on:

• Distance: How far is your project from the supplier? The further away, the more it costs.
• Amount: Delivering a small amount might have a higher cost per yard than delivering a large amount. A full truckload is often the most cost-effective way to get delivery.
• Access: Is your driveway easy to get to? Can a big dump truck fit? If delivery is hard or takes extra time, they might charge more.
• Fuel Prices: The cost of gas and diesel affects how much trucking companies charge. When fuel prices are high, delivery costs go up.

Some suppliers offer free delivery over a certain amount or distance, but this is not common. Always ask about delivery fees.

Different Uses Have Different Costs

The job you need the gravel for can also guide your choice and affect the final cost.

Driveway Gravel Cost

Building or fixing a driveway often needs a lot of gravel. Driveway gravel cost depends on the size and type of stone.

• Base Layer: Often uses larger crushed stone (like 1.5 inch or 2 inch). This is often cheaper per yard because size doesn’t need to be exact.
• Middle Layer: Uses smaller crushed stone (like 3/4 inch or 1 inch). This layer helps it pack down hard. The crushed stone cost per yard for this size is very common.
• Top Layer: Can use 3/4 inch crushed stone, smaller sizes, or even certain types of gravel like pea gravel (though pea gravel can scatter). The cost for the top layer material might be slightly higher if you choose a specific look.

Because driveways need many yards, you will likely deal with bulk gravel delivery cost.

Landscape Rock Prices

Gravel and decorative stone for landscaping fall under landscape rock prices. This includes things like pea gravel, river rock, and colored gravel.

• Cost of pea gravel for paths or patios.
• Cost of larger river rock for garden beds or drainage.
• Cost of special colored gravel for decorative touches.

Landscape rock prices are generally higher per yard than basic driveway or drainage gravel. This is because they are chosen for looks, size, and color, which adds to their value and processing cost. You might not need as much volume as a driveway, but the material cost per yard is higher.

Grasping Average Costs by Type

Let’s look at some average price ranges per cubic yard for different common types in 2024. These are just estimates and can change a lot based on location and supplier.

Table: Estimated Average Gravel Costs Per Cubic Yard (2024)

Gravel Type	Description	Estimated Cost Per Cubic Yard	Estimated Cost Per Ton (approx.)
Basic Crushed Stone (e.g., 3/4″)	Gray, angular, common size	$30 – $55	$20 – $40
Pea Gravel	Small, rounded stone	$45 – $80	$35 – $60
Drainage Gravel (e.g., #57 stone)	Clean, crushed, no fines	$40 – $65	$30 – $50
River Rock (small to medium)	Larger, rounded, decorative	$60 – $100	$50 – $80
Decorative/Colored Gravel	Specific colors, types (e.g., red)	$80 – $200+	$60 – $150+
Stone Dust	Very fine crushed stone	$20 – $40	$15 – $30

(Note: These are general ranges. Prices near cities or in areas with few quarries can be higher. Prices in rural areas closer to sources might be lower.)

The different types of gravel costs show why knowing your project needs is key.

How to Figure Out How Much You Need

Before you buy, you need to know the right amount. Buying too little means paying for a second delivery. Buying too much wastes money.

You need three measurements:

1. Length of the area (in feet).
2. Width of the area (in feet).
3. Depth you want the gravel (in inches).

Using a Gravel Calculator

It’s easy to use a gravel calculator online. Just type in your length, width, and depth. The calculator tells you how many cubic yards you need.

The math behind it:

• Measure length and width in feet.
• Measure depth in inches.
• Change depth to feet: depth in inches / 12.
• Multiply length x width x depth (in feet) to get cubic feet.
• Divide cubic feet by 27 (because there are 27 cubic feet in 1 cubic yard).

Example: You need to cover an area 10 feet long by 5 feet wide with gravel 4 inches deep.

• Length = 10 feet
• Width = 5 feet
• Depth in feet = 4 inches / 12 inches/foot = 0.33 feet (about)
• Cubic feet = 10 feet * 5 feet * 0.33 feet = 16.5 cubic feet
• Cubic yards = 16.5 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/yard = 0.61 cubic yards

You would likely round up to 0.75 or 1 cubic yard when ordering, as suppliers often sell in quarter or half-yard amounts, and it’s good to have a little extra.

For larger areas like driveways, measure the length and average width. For depth, consider you might need different depths for base and top layers. A typical driveway might need 6-8 inches for the base and 2-4 inches for the top layer.

Using a gravel calculator helps you estimate the price per cubic yard of gravel needed for your specific area.

Interpreting the Total Cost

The total cost for your gravel project is not just the price per yard. It’s:

(Number of Yards Needed x Price Per Yard) + Delivery Cost = Total Cost

Or if buying by the ton:

(Number of Tons Needed x Price Per Ton) + Delivery Cost = Total Cost

Bulk gravel delivery cost can add a lot to the bill, sometimes as much as the gravel itself for smaller orders or long distances.

Always get a quote that includes all costs: material price and delivery cost for gravel.

Possible Hidden Costs

Sometimes there are costs you don’t think about at first.

• Minimum Order Fees: Some suppliers have a minimum amount you must buy for delivery (like 3 or 5 cubic yards). If you need less, you might still pay for the minimum or have to pick it up yourself.
• Small Load Fees: If you need delivery but only order a small amount (like 1-2 yards), the delivery fee per yard might be higher than for a large load.
• Fuel Surcharges: Delivery costs can change with gas prices. Some companies add a fuel surcharge if prices are very high.
• Spreading or Installation: The cost discussed here is just for the gravel and getting it to your site. It does not include paying someone to spread it or prepare the ground. Hiring help adds to your total project cost.
• Sales Tax: Don’t forget local sales tax on materials and sometimes delivery.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of all costs in a quote.

Tips for Saving Money on Gravel

Gravel projects can be expensive, especially for large areas like driveways. Here are ways to lower the cost.

1. Buy in Bulk: If you need a lot, buying a full truckload is the cheapest price per cubic yard of gravel. Find out the truck sizes your supplier uses (e.g., holds 10, 15, or 20 yards) and try to order close to a full load. This reduces the bulk gravel delivery cost per yard.
2. Choose a Local Supplier: Get quotes from stone yards and quarries close to your project site. This will lower the delivery cost for gravel.
3. Compare Prices: Don’t just go with the first place you call. Get price quotes from 2-3 different suppliers. Ask for the price per cubic yard, price per ton, and the full delivery cost for the amount you need. Compare driveway gravel cost quotes specifically if that’s your project. Compare landscape rock prices if you’re using it for looks.
4. Be Flexible on Gravel Type: If your project doesn’t require a specific type for looks (like a base layer for a driveway), ask the supplier for the most cost-effective option for that purpose. Basic crushed stone prices per ton or yard are usually lower.
5. Consider Picking It Up: If you have a truck or can borrow one, picking up small amounts yourself avoids delivery fees. Check how much weight your truck can safely carry (remembering a yard is 1.2-1.5 tons).
6. Measure Carefully: Use a gravel calculator and measure your area correctly. Ordering the right amount the first time avoids extra delivery fees for a small second load. It also prevents overpaying for too much material.
7. Time Your Project: Sometimes gravel prices might change slightly with the seasons or demand, though this is less common than price changes based on fuel or supply. Planning can sometimes help, but local supply is the biggest factor.
8. Ask About Recycled Options: In some areas, you can buy crushed concrete or asphalt (often called “recycled gravel”). This can be cheaper than new stone and works well for base layers on driveways or paths. Ask suppliers about recycled options and their cost.

Fathoming Different Types of Gravel Costs in Detail

Let’s look closer at why the different types of gravel costs vary.

• Source Rock: Some rocks are harder to quarry or are found in fewer places. Granite or certain decorative rocks might cost more than common limestone or trap rock simply because of the original stone.
• Processing: Basic crushed stone is just blasted and run through crushers and screens. Pea gravel needs extra screening and sometimes washing to get that smooth, uniform size and shape. River rock is dug from riverbeds (or simulated) and screened by size, which can be a different process than quarrying. More processing steps add to the cost.
• Washing: Some gravel is washed to remove fine dust and make the color brighter (common for decorative or drainage stone). This uses water and energy, adding to the cost.
• Color: Naturally colored stone is often dug from specific sites where that color rock exists. Transportation from these specific sites adds to the cost. Sometimes gravel is artificially colored, which is another added process.

So, the cost of pea gravel is higher than basic crushed stone partly due to the extra screening needed to ensure the pieces are small and round. Landscape rock prices are higher because these stones are chosen for visual appeal, requiring careful sourcing and sorting by size and look.

Comprehending Bulk vs. Small Quantity Pricing

The price per cubic yard of gravel drops when you buy more. Why?

• Delivery Efficiency: A large dump truck costs money to run whether it’s half full or completely full. Suppliers would rather send out full trucks. They pass some of the savings from fewer trips per total yard onto the customer buying in bulk. This is the core of bulk gravel delivery cost savings.
• Loading Efficiency: Loading a full truck takes less time per yard than loading many small trucks or trailers for the same total amount.
• Sales Process: Selling one large load involves less paperwork and handling than many small sales.

So, while 1 cubic yard might cost $50, buying 10 cubic yards might bring the price down to $40 per yard, plus a single delivery fee for the 10 yards. This is much cheaper than paying for 10 separate deliveries of 1 yard each.

If your project is large, always ask for the price per cubic yard for bulk amounts (like a full truckload) and compare it to the price for smaller quantities. This is key to managing your driveway gravel cost or any large project cost.

Deciphering Delivery Costs

Delivery cost for gravel isn’t just one number. It’s often a base fee plus a per-mile charge, or a tiered fee based on distance zones.

• Local Zone: A flat fee for delivery within a few miles of the supplier.
• Distance Zones: Fees increase as you get further away.
• Per Mile: Some charge a set amount for every mile from their yard to your site.

Also, consider the type of truck. A small truck that carries 5-7 yards might have a lower delivery fee than a large truck that carries 15-20 yards. However, if you need 15 yards, it’s cheaper to pay for one large truck delivery than two or three smaller truck deliveries, even if the per-trip fee is higher for the large truck. This goes back to bulk gravel delivery cost efficiency.

Ask your supplier:
* What is the delivery fee for the amount I need?
* Is there a minimum delivery amount?
* How is the delivery fee calculated (flat rate, per mile, zone)?
* Are there any extra fees for difficult access?

Frequently Asked Questions About Gravel Costs

What is the average price per cubic yard of gravel?

In 2024, the average cost is usually between $30 and $75 per cubic yard for basic types, not including delivery.

How much does a ton of gravel cost?

Gravel prices per ton typically range from $20 to $60 per ton for common types, before delivery. A cubic yard is about 1.2 to 1.5 tons.

What is the typical cost of pea gravel?

The cost of pea gravel is often slightly higher than basic crushed stone, usually ranging from $45 to $80 per cubic yard, not including delivery.

How is crushed stone cost per yard different from other types?

Crushed stone is usually one of the more affordable types because it’s a primary product of quarrying. Crushed stone cost per yard is generally in the $30 to $65 range for common sizes, lower than decorative stones like river rock or specialty gravel.

What affects driveway gravel cost the most?

Driveway gravel cost is heavily affected by the sheer volume needed and the bulk gravel delivery cost for that large amount. The type of stone for the base and top layers also plays a role.

Are landscape rock prices higher than regular gravel?

Yes, landscape rock prices are generally higher per cubic yard because these stones are selected for their appearance (size, shape, color) for decorative use, requiring extra processing and sorting.

How do I use a gravel calculator?

You measure the length and width of your area in feet, and the depth you need in inches. Enter these numbers into a gravel calculator online, and it will tell you how many cubic yards or tons you need.

What is the average delivery cost for gravel?

Delivery cost for gravel varies greatly by distance and amount. It can range from a $50 flat fee for a local small load to several hundred dollars for a large bulk delivery far away. Always get a specific quote.

Do different types of gravel costs vary a lot?

Yes, different types of gravel costs vary significantly based on the type of rock, processing (crushing, screening, washing), size, color, and how common it is. Basic crushed stone is cheapest, while decorative or specialty gravel costs the most.

Knowing the costs and factors helps you plan your project budget better. Always get quotes from local suppliers to get the most accurate prices for your area.