So, how much is a yard of black dirt? A yard of black dirt usually costs somewhere between $15 and $50. This is just for the dirt itself, not counting delivery. The exact price changes based on many things, like where you buy it and the dirt’s quality. We will look at what makes the price go up or down. This helps you plan for your project.
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Finding the Average Cost
Let’s talk about the average cost of black dirt. When you buy black dirt, you usually buy it by the cubic yard. This is a big amount. Imagine a box that is 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet high. That’s one cubic yard.
The cost of black dirt per yard can be quite different. It might be low, around $15, or go up to $50. Why such a big difference? Well, it depends on where the dirt comes from and how good it is. Screened black dirt, which has rocks and clumps taken out, costs more. Unscreened dirt is cheaper but might have things you don’t want in it.
Think about topsoil price per cubic yard too. Black dirt is often called topsoil, but not all topsoil is black dirt. Good topsoil is dark and rich. The price for topsoil is often in the same range, maybe a bit more if it’s a special mix. So, how much is a yard of topsoil? It often falls into that $15 to $50 range per cubic yard, similar to black dirt.
Here is a rough idea of the price range for bulk black dirt cost:
| Soil Type | Average Price Per Cubic Yard (Dirt Only) |
|---|---|
| Unscreened | $15 – $30 |
| Screened | $25 – $50 |
| Blends (with compost) | $30 – $60+ |
Remember, these are just average numbers. Your local prices might be higher or lower. Always get prices from a few places near you.
Factors Changing the Price
Many things can change the cost of black dirt per yard. It’s not just one price everywhere. Let’s look at what makes the price move.
Where It Comes From
The quality of the dirt matters a lot.
Good black dirt is dark, loose, and rich in stuff plants like.
It should not have many rocks, sticks, or weeds.
Dirt that is screened costs more. Screening takes out the big stuff.
Unscreened dirt is cheaper. But you might need to clean it yourself.
Dirt from different sources can have different qualities and prices.
How Much You Need
Buying more dirt at once is often cheaper per yard. This is called buying in bulk.
If you only need a little, you might buy bags. Bags cost much more per yard than bulk dirt.
Bulk black dirt cost is always lower per unit than buying many small bags.
Suppliers like to sell large amounts. They might give a better price for many yards.
Where You Live
Prices change based on your location.
If you live where black dirt is easy to find, it costs less.
If dirt must travel far to get to you, the price goes up.
Prices are often higher in big cities or places where building is common.
Local taxes and fees can also add to the cost of soil per yard.
Time of Year
The season can affect the price.
Spring and early summer are busy times for gardening and landscaping.
More people want dirt then. Prices might go up a little because of high demand.
During slower times, like late fall or winter (if available), prices might be lower.
Getting It to You
Delivery is a big part of the total cost.
The cost of the dirt itself is one thing. Getting it to your house is another.
We will talk more about delivery costs soon. But know that it adds to the price.
If you can pick up the dirt yourself, you save on delivery fees.
What Kind of Soil
Not all soil is the same, even if it looks dark.
Pure black dirt might just be soil type.
Topsoil is the top layer of earth. Good topsoil is usually dark and rich. The topsoil price per cubic yard varies with quality.
Garden soil is often topsoil mixed with compost or other things to help plants grow better. Garden soil price per yard is usually higher than plain black dirt.
Landscaping soil prices can cover many types, from fill dirt to special mixes.
These things all work together to set the cubic yard of black dirt price you will pay.
What Delivery Costs
Let’s look closely at the delivery cost for black dirt. Buying dirt in bulk means you need a way to get it home. Most people have it delivered.
Delivery adds a lot to the final price. It can sometimes cost as much as the dirt itself, especially for smaller orders or long distances.
How is delivery cost figured out?
- Distance: This is the main factor. How far does the truck need to travel from the supplier to your home? The farther it is, the more it costs.
- Quantity: Some suppliers charge a flat fee for delivery, regardless of how much dirt you order (up to the truck’s limit). Others might have a base fee plus a charge per yard or per mile.
- Truck Size: Bigger trucks can carry more dirt. If you need a lot, one large truck trip is often cheaper than two smaller ones. But getting a large truck into your driveway might be a problem.
- Minimum Order: Many suppliers require you to buy a certain amount of dirt (like 3 or 5 cubic yards) to get delivery.
- Delivery Location: Is your driveway easy to access? Can the truck dump the dirt where you want it? Difficult spots might add to the cost or make delivery impossible.
Average delivery cost for black dirt can range from $50 to $150 or even more.
For example:
* A short trip (under 10 miles) might be $50 – $75.
* A medium trip (10-20 miles) might be $75 – $120.
* A longer trip (over 20 miles) could be $120 – $200+.
Again, these are just rough numbers. You need to call local suppliers for exact quotes. Always ask about their delivery fees and any minimum order rules.
Remember the total cubic yard of black dirt price is the cost of the dirt PLUS the delivery fee.
Figuring Out How Much Soil
Before you call for prices, you need to know how much black dirt you need. Buying too little means paying for a second delivery. Buying too much means wasted money and a pile of dirt you don’t need.
Knowing how much is a yard of black dirt is the start. Now, let’s figure out how many yards your project needs.
You need three numbers:
1. Length: How long is the area you want to cover?
2. Width: How wide is that area?
3. Depth: How deep do you want the black dirt to be?
Use a measuring tape to get these numbers in feet.
Let’s say you want to fill a garden bed.
It is 10 feet long.
It is 4 feet wide.
You want the dirt to be 6 inches deep.
Calculations need to be in feet. So, change inches to feet.
6 inches is 0.5 feet (because 12 inches = 1 foot, so 6/12 = 0.5).
Now, multiply the length, width, and depth:
10 feet * 4 feet * 0.5 feet = 20 cubic feet
Soil is sold in cubic yards. There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard.
(3 feet * 3 feet * 3 feet = 27 cubic feet).
So, divide your cubic feet total by 27:
20 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/yard = 0.74 cubic yards
You would need about 0.75 cubic yards for this project.
Since suppliers usually sell in half or whole yards, you might round up to 1 cubic yard.
Here is a table to help estimate common projects:
| Project Size (Area) | Depth Needed (Inches) | Approximate Cubic Yards Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft (10×10) | 2 inches | 0.6 yards |
| 4 inches | 1.2 yards | |
| 6 inches | 1.9 yards | |
| 500 sq ft (20×25) | 2 inches | 3.1 yards |
| 4 inches | 6.2 yards | |
| 6 inches | 9.3 yards | |
| 1000 sq ft (20×50 or 25×40) | 2 inches | 6.2 yards |
| 4 inches | 12.3 yards | |
| 6 inches | 18.5 yards |
This table helps you get a general idea. Always measure your exact area. It’s often a good idea to add 5-10% to your total to be safe. Dirt settles over time.
Knowing your needed amount (in cubic yards) helps you ask the right questions when calling suppliers. You can get a price for the dirt and the delivery for that specific amount.
Ways to Buy Black Dirt
You can buy black dirt in two main ways: in bulk or in bags. The price of soil per yard is very different depending on how you buy it.
Buying in Bulk
This is when you buy many cubic yards at once.
The supplier brings a large truck and dumps the dirt in one pile.
Bulk is best for large projects like:
* Filling new garden beds
* Leveling a yard
* Starting a new lawn
* Big landscaping jobs
Pros of Bulk:
* Much cheaper per cubic yard. This is where you get the best bulk black dirt cost.
* Less waste (no plastic bags).
* Faster if you need a lot of dirt. One delivery instead of many car trips for bags.
Cons of Bulk:
* Requires a large space for the pile.
* You have to move the dirt yourself (wheelbarrow, shovel).
* You might need to order a minimum amount.
* Requires delivery or picking up with a truck/trailer.
The cost of black dirt per yard is lowest when buying in bulk. This is the most common way people buy dirt for bigger projects.
Buying in Bags
You can buy black dirt in small plastic bags at garden centers or hardware stores.
Bag sizes vary, but a common size is 1 cubic foot or 1.5 cubic feet.
To get a cubic yard, you would need 27 of the 1 cubic foot bags, or 18 of the 1.5 cubic foot bags.
Pros of Bags:
* Easy to transport small amounts.
* No large dirt pile in your yard.
* Good for small jobs like filling pots or small holes.
* Different types of soil mixes are available in bags (garden soil, potting mix, etc.).
Cons of Bags:
* Much more expensive per cubic yard. The price difference is huge.
* Lots of plastic waste.
* Need many bags for even a medium-sized job. This means many trips or a full car/truck.
Let’s look at the price difference.
If bulk screened black dirt costs $40 per cubic yard.
A 1 cubic foot bag might cost $4.
There are 27 cubic feet in a yard.
27 bags * $4/bag = $108 for one cubic yard bought in bags.
This is almost triple the bulk price!
If you only need a tiny bit, bags are fine. But for anything more than a few wheelbarrow loads, bulk is much cheaper. When comparing the cubic yard of black dirt price, bulk is always the winner for cost.
Different Kinds of Soil
When you hear about black dirt, topsoil, and garden soil, it can be confusing. They are related but different. This affects the price of soil per yard.
Black Dirt
This usually means soil that is very dark because it has a lot of organic matter.
It’s often dug up from areas where grass or plants have grown for a long time.
Good black dirt is great for improving soil quality. It holds water and nutrients well.
It might be sold as “screened black dirt” (rocks removed) or “unscreened black dirt”.
Topsoil
Topsoil is simply the top layer of natural soil on the ground.
It can be many colors, not just black.
Good quality topsoil is dark, loose, and has organic matter. This is what people often mean when they ask how much is a yard of topsoil.
Poor topsoil might be clay heavy, sandy, or have little organic matter.
Suppliers often sell “screened topsoil,” which is usually decent quality topsoil that has been sifted.
Garden Soil
Garden soil is usually a mix.
It often starts with topsoil or black dirt.
Then, things like compost, peat moss, or fertilizers are added.
These additions make it better for growing vegetables, flowers, or other plants.
Garden soil price per yard is often higher than plain black dirt or topsoil. This is because of the extra stuff added. It’s specially made to feed plants.
Landscaping Soil
This is a broad term. Landscaping soil prices cover everything from cheap fill dirt (used to build up low areas) to high-quality topsoil blends.
Fill dirt is the cheapest. It can have rocks and clay. It’s not good for planting but works for leveling.
Better landscaping soil might be a screened topsoil or a mix designed for specific uses like lawns or garden beds.
When getting quotes, ask what kind of soil they are selling. Is it just black dirt? Is it screened topsoil? Is it a garden mix? Knowing the type helps you compare prices fairly. A low price for “black dirt” might mean unscreened fill dirt, not rich soil for your garden.
Tips for Spending Less
Buying black dirt can be a big cost for a project. Here are some ways to lower the total expense and get a better bulk black dirt cost.
- Buy in Bulk: We already talked about this. It is the number one way to save money compared to buying bags. Get the cost of black dirt per yard for bulk orders.
- Shop Around: Call at least 3-4 local suppliers. Prices can be very different. Ask for the price per cubic yard and the delivery cost for the amount you need. Compare the total cubic yard of black dirt price.
- Pick It Up Yourself: If you have a truck or can rent one, picking up the dirt avoids delivery fees. Make sure your vehicle can handle the weight! One cubic yard of dirt is very heavy (around 2000-2500 pounds). A small truck might only carry half a yard safely.
- Consider Unscreened (Carefully): If your project does not need perfect soil (like filling a low spot before adding good soil on top), unscreened dirt is cheaper. But if it’s for a garden, screened is usually worth the extra cost to avoid dealing with rocks and trash.
- Team Up With Neighbors: Do neighbors need soil too? If you order together, you might reach a higher quantity for a better price per yard. Or you can split a delivery fee.
- Check for Local Sources: Sometimes, local municipalities or construction sites might have soil available. Check if it’s suitable for your needs and if there are any costs or requirements.
- Calculate Accurately: Knowing exactly how much you need prevents buying too little (paying two delivery fees) or too much (wasting money). Use the measuring method we discussed. Add that little extra amount just in case.
- Ask About Blends: Sometimes a mix with compost might be better for your plants than plain black dirt. Compare the garden soil price per yard to black dirt prices. A slightly higher price for a better blend might save you money on fertilizer later.
- Know the Delivery Details: Ask about the truck size. Make sure it can access your property. Confirm where they will dump the dirt. Unexpected issues on delivery day can add costs or problems.
Spending time to compare prices and plan helps you get the best value for your project. The average cost of black dirt can seem high, but smart buying lowers it.
Bringing Your Project to Life
You’ve done your homework! You know how much is a yard of black dirt on average, what changes the price, how much you need, and the costs for delivery.
Now it is time to act.
1. Measure your area: Get the length, width, and depth in feet.
2. Calculate cubic feet: Multiply Length x Width x Depth.
3. Convert to cubic yards: Divide cubic feet by 27. Add a little extra (5-10%).
4. Find suppliers: Look online or ask friends for local landscape supply yards, nurseries, or soil providers.
5. Get quotes: Call or email several places. Ask for:
* Cost per cubic yard for the type of soil you want (black dirt, screened topsoil, garden mix). Ask about the quality.
* Delivery cost for the number of yards you need to your specific address.
* Any minimum order for delivery.
* How soon they can deliver.
6. Compare totals: Add the dirt cost and delivery cost from each supplier. This gives you the total cubic yard of black dirt price delivered.
7. Choose the best deal: Pick the supplier that offers the right quality soil at the best total price.
8. Place your order: Confirm the amount, address, date, and where they will dump the soil.
9. Prepare for delivery: Make sure the delivery spot is clear. Protect driveways or sidewalks if needed. Be home when the truck arrives.
10. Get to work: Once the dirt is there, you can start your project!
Knowing the price of soil per yard and all the related costs makes planning easier. You can set a budget and avoid surprises. Whether you need a little for a small garden bed or a lot for a big landscaping change, getting good soil is key to healthy plants and a beautiful yard.
The price you pay reflects the work to get that soil from the ground, cleaned (if screened), and delivered to you. It is an important part of many outdoor projects. By understanding the costs, you can make smart choices and get the best value for your money.
Remember that landscaping soil prices can vary greatly depending on the quality and type. Always ask questions to be sure you are getting what you need. How much is a yard of topsoil? What is the garden soil price per yard? Are they screened? These questions help you compare offers fairly.
This guide helps you understand the costs. It puts you in a good spot to get the black dirt you need without spending too much. Good luck with your project!
Questions People Ask
Here are some common questions about buying black dirt and its cost.
How heavy is a yard of black dirt?
A cubic yard of black dirt is heavy. It usually weighs between 2000 and 2500 pounds. The exact weight changes based on how wet it is. Wet dirt weighs more. This is why you need a strong truck or delivery for bulk orders.
Is black dirt the same as topsoil?
Not always. “Black dirt” means soil that is dark because it has a lot of organic matter. “Topsoil” is the top layer of earth. Good topsoil is often dark and looks like black dirt. But topsoil can also be lighter in color and not as rich. When buying, ask if it’s screened topsoil or a specific “black dirt” product, and what its quality is. This affects the topsoil price per cubic yard or cost of black dirt per yard.
Is screened black dirt better than unscreened?
For most planting projects, yes. Screened black dirt has been sifted. This takes out rocks, roots, and clumps. It is finer and easier to work with. Unscreened dirt is cheaper but might need a lot of work to remove unwanted stuff. For filling holes or leveling, unscreened might be okay. For gardens or lawns, screened is usually worth the extra cost.
How much area does a yard of black dirt cover?
It depends on how deep you spread it.
One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet.
If you spread it 1 inch deep (about 0.083 feet), one yard covers about 325 square feet (27 / 0.083).
If you spread it 6 inches deep (0.5 feet), one yard covers about 54 square feet (27 / 0.5).
Use the calculation (Length x Width x Depth in feet / 27) to be more exact for your project area.
Can I mix black dirt with my existing soil?
Yes, this is a great idea! Mixing new black dirt or topsoil into your existing soil improves its structure. It adds nutrients and helps with water drainage and holding. It makes your soil better for plants. Spread the new dirt over your area and mix it in with a shovel or tiller.
Is the garden soil price per yard worth it?
Often, yes, if you are making a new garden or filling raised beds. Garden soil is usually a mix of topsoil and compost or other helpers. It is made to give plants a good start. It costs more than plain black dirt or topsoil. But the added organic matter and nutrients can lead to healthier plants and better growth. For just leveling or filling, plain black dirt or topsoil is often enough.
How does bulk black dirt cost compare to bagged soil cost?
Bulk dirt is much, much cheaper per cubic yard than bagged soil. As we saw, a yard of bagged soil can cost 2-3 times more than a yard of bulk soil. Bulk is always better for larger amounts. Bags are only cost-effective for very small jobs like potting plants. When you look at the price of soil per yard, bulk is the clear winner for value.
Do I need to order exactly whole yards?
Most suppliers sell in full or half yards. So, if you calculate you need 4.2 cubic yards, you would likely order 4.5 cubic yards. It is usually better to order a little more than not enough. Ordering a tiny bit extra avoids a second delivery fee, which is expensive.
What is the difference in landscaping soil prices?
Landscaping soil prices cover a wide range. Cheap “fill dirt” can be very inexpensive ($10-$20 per yard). Standard screened topsoil or black dirt is mid-range ($15-$50 per yard). Special blends like garden soil or mixes with specific sand/clay ratios cost more ($30-$60+ per yard). The price shows the quality and what is in the mix. Always ask what the soil is good for.
Knowing the answers to these questions helps you talk to suppliers and get the right black dirt for your project at a fair price.