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Crushed Rock Prices: How Much Is A Yard Of Crushed Rock?
So, how much is a yard of crushed rock? The cost per cubic yard of crushed stone typically falls between \$10 and \$50. But many things can change this price. Where you live, the type of rock you want, and how much you buy all make a difference. This article will help you figure out what you might pay for crushed rock for your home projects.
What Changes The Cost of Crushed Rock?
Knowing the main factors helps you guess the final price. Crushed rock prices change based on many things. Let’s look at them one by one.
Type of Stone Matters
Not all rocks are the same. Some kinds cost more to break up or are harder to find. The type of stone is a big part of its price.
- Limestone: This is very common. It is often the cheapest option. People use it for driveways and walking paths.
- Granite: This rock is harder and lasts longer. It costs more than limestone. People use it where they need strong rock.
- Washed Gravel: This stone is cleaned. It has no dirt or fine bits. It costs more because of the washing step. It’s good for drainage or looks nice in gardens. Gravel price per yard can vary based on if it’s washed or not.
- Recycled Concrete or Asphalt: These come from old roads or buildings. They are broken up and reused. They can be cheaper than new stone. Aggregate prices per yard for recycled material are often lower.
- Specialty Stone: Some rocks have special colors or shapes. These are used for looks in gardens. Landscape rock cost per yard for these can be much higher.
The kind of rock you pick makes a big difference in the total cost.
Size of The Crushed Rock
Crushed rock comes in many sizes. You can get fine dust or large stones. The size affects the work needed to make it. It also affects what it is used for.
- Smaller Sizes (like fines or quarter-inch): These pack down tight. They are used for bases under paths or patios.
- Medium Sizes (like half-inch or three-quarter inch): These are common for driveways or drainage. They are easy to work with. The cost of gravel driveway per yard often uses these sizes.
- Larger Sizes (like one-inch or bigger): These are used for filling large holes or for heavy drainage needs.
Sometimes, very small or very large sizes cost a bit more. This is because they might need extra steps to sort them by size.
Where You Buy The Rock
The place where you get the rock matters a lot.
- Local Quarries: These are places where rock is dug up and crushed. Buying straight from a quarry can be cheaper per yard. This is because you cut out the middle person. Local crushed stone prices are often best at a quarry.
- Stone Yards or Landscaping Supply Stores: These places buy from quarries. They sell to the public in smaller amounts. They are easy to get to. But their price per yard might be a bit higher.
- Big Box Stores: Places like Home Depot or Lowe’s sell rock in bags. This is good for small jobs. But buying by the bag is much, much more costly than buying by the yard.
Buying close to home can save money on delivery too. Think about where your rock is coming from.
How Much Rock You Need
Buying more rock often means a lower price per yard. Suppliers want to sell large amounts.
- Small Jobs (less than 5 yards): You pay a higher price per yard. Delivery fees might be high for small amounts.
- Medium Jobs (5 to 20 yards): The price per yard starts to drop. Delivery costs are spread out over more material.
- Large Jobs (more than 20 yards or commercial size): You get bulk crushed rock prices. This is the lowest price per yard. Quarries or large suppliers offer the best deals for big orders.
Always ask about discounts for buying in bulk.
Delivery Distance and Cost
Getting the rock to your home costs money. Crushed stone delivery cost is a big part of the total price.
- How it’s Hauled: Rock is heavy. It needs a special truck. The cost depends on the truck size and how far it travels.
- Distance: The farther the truck has to drive from the quarry or yard, the more delivery costs.
- Load Size: Some suppliers have a minimum amount for delivery. They might charge more if your order is small. Delivery cost can be a set fee per trip or based on distance and load.
Always ask for the delivery cost when you get a price for the rock. Sometimes, free delivery is offered for large orders, but this is not common because rock is so heavy.
How Much Does a Yard Weigh?
Crushed rock is sold by the cubic yard or by the ton. It is helpful to know how these two measures relate.
- Cubic Yard: This is a measure of space. It is a box that is 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet high. (3ft x 3ft x 3ft = 27 cubic feet).
- Ton: This is a measure of weight. One ton is 2000 pounds.
The weight of a cubic yard of crushed rock changes. It depends on the type of rock and how wet it is.
- A cubic yard of crushed rock usually weighs about 1.2 to 1.5 tons.
- This means one ton is about 0.65 to 0.8 cubic yards.
Why does this matter?
* Suppliers often price by the yard.
* Delivery trucks limit weight, not just space.
* Sometimes, prices are given per ton. Knowing the price per ton helps you guess the price per yard, and vice versa.
Crushed rock price per ton is useful for very large projects. But for most home jobs, you will buy by the yard. Make sure you know if the price is per yard or per ton when you ask.
Figuring Out How Much Rock You Need
Before you order, you need to know the right amount. Buying too little stops your work. Buying too much wastes money. You need to calculate crushed rock quantity.
Here’s how to guess the amount:
Step 1: Measure Your Area
Get a tape measure. Go to the place where you want to put the rock.
- Measure the length of the area in feet.
- Measure the width of the area in feet.
If the area is not a simple square or rectangle, break it into smaller squares or rectangles. Measure each part.
Step 2: Decide How Deep You Need The Rock
How thick should the rock layer be? This depends on what you are using it for.
- Paths or Walkways: 2 to 4 inches deep might be enough.
- Driveways: 4 to 6 inches deep is common for a base. You might add another layer on top.
- Drainage: Needs can change a lot. Maybe 6 inches to a foot or more.
- Decoration: Just a thin layer, maybe 2 inches.
Measure the depth you want in inches.
Step 3: Do The Math
Now you can calculate the amount. All measurements must be in feet.
- Length (in feet) x Width (in feet) = Area in square feet.
- Convert your desired depth from inches to feet. Divide the inches by 12. (Example: 4 inches / 12 = 0.33 feet)
- Area (in square feet) x Depth (in feet) = Volume in cubic feet.
You need the amount in cubic yards, not cubic feet. Remember, one cubic yard is 27 cubic feet.
- Volume (in cubic feet) / 27 = Volume in cubic yards.
Example:
Let’s say your driveway area is 50 feet long and 10 feet wide. You want the rock layer to be 4 inches deep.
- Area: 50 feet x 10 feet = 500 square feet.
- Depth in feet: 4 inches / 12 = 0.33 feet.
- Volume in cubic feet: 500 sq ft x 0.33 ft = 165 cubic feet.
- Volume in cubic yards: 165 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/yard = 6.1 cubic yards.
You would need about 6 cubic yards of crushed rock.
Step 4: Add A Little Extra
It is smart to order a little more than your math shows.
- The ground might not be perfectly flat.
- Some rock gets lost or spread thin.
- Compacting the rock (packing it down) makes it take up less space.
Ordering 10% more is a good idea. For the example above (6.1 yards), 10% more is about 0.6 yards. So, order 6.5 or 7 cubic yards. It is better to have a little extra than not enough. Having to order a tiny bit more later often means paying high delivery fees for a small load.
Rock Costs For Specific Projects
Let’s look at the cost for two common home projects using crushed rock: driveways and landscaping.
Cost of Gravel Driveway Per Yard
A gravel driveway is a popular choice. It costs less than concrete or asphalt. The main cost is the crushed rock itself and getting it delivered.
- Material: You will likely use limestone or basic gravel. The price per yard is often on the lower end, maybe \$15 to \$30 per yard for these types.
- Quantity: Driveways need a good depth, maybe 4-6 inches, sometimes more if it’s a base layer. This means you need a good amount of rock, likely 5-20 yards or more depending on the driveway size.
- Delivery: This is a big cost for driveways because you need a lot of heavy material. Delivery can add \$50 to \$300 or more depending on distance and how much you order.
To guess the total cost for a driveway:
- Figure out how many cubic yards you need (Length x Width x Depth / 27).
- Multiply the number of yards by the price per yard for the rock type you want.
- Add the delivery cost.
Example: A driveway needing 10 cubic yards of limestone at \$20/yard with a \$100 delivery fee.
* Rock cost: 10 yards * \$20/yard = \$200.
* Total cost: \$200 (rock) + \$100 (delivery) = \$300.
This is just for the rock itself. It does not include putting it down, leveling it, or any edge borders.
Landscape Rock Cost Per Yard
Using crushed rock in landscaping is common. People use it for paths, garden beds, or as ground cover.
- Material: You might use basic gravel, washed stone, or specialty decorative rock. Basic gravel price per yard is low. Washed stone costs more. Specialty landscape rock cost per yard can be much higher, \$30 to \$100+ per yard, especially for specific colors or types.
- Quantity: Landscaping jobs often need less rock than driveways. You might only need 1 to 5 yards for garden beds or small paths.
- Delivery: Since you need less rock, delivery cost per yard might feel higher. The truck still has to come to you. But if you buy from a local store near you, delivery might be less. For very small amounts, you might even pick it up yourself in a truck bed or trailer, saving delivery cost.
To guess the total cost for landscaping rock:
- Figure out how many cubic yards you need (Length x Width x Depth / 27). Remember landscaping might use a thin layer (2-4 inches).
- Multiply the number of yards by the price per yard for the stone type you like.
- Add the delivery cost, if you need delivery.
Example: Landscaping needing 2 cubic yards of washed gravel at \$40/yard with a \$75 delivery fee.
* Rock cost: 2 yards * \$40/yard = \$80.
* Total cost: \$80 (rock) + \$75 (delivery) = \$155.
If you used a specialty rock at \$80/yard for the same project:
* Rock cost: 2 yards * \$80/yard = \$160.
* Total cost: \$160 (rock) + \$75 (delivery) = \$235.
Landscape rock cost per yard varies a lot based on the rock type you choose for looks.
Bulk Buying and Aggregate Prices
When you need a lot of crushed rock, you look for bulk crushed rock prices. Suppliers offer lower prices per yard when you buy many yards at once.
- What is Bulk? This usually means buying 10 yards or more. The exact amount for ‘bulk pricing’ changes by supplier.
- Why is it Cheaper? It is easier for the supplier to load one large truck than many small ones. It saves them time and work.
- Aggregate Prices: Crushed rock, gravel, and sand are all called aggregates. Aggregate prices per yard generally refer to bulk prices for these materials. These prices are often used in bigger building projects.
Bulk prices per yard can be 20% to 50% less than buying just a few yards.
Example Price Range (very rough estimate, varies greatly):
| Quantity Needed | Price Per Yard (Limestone) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 5 yards | \$30 – \$50+ per yard | Highest cost per unit |
| 5 to 10 yards | \$20 – \$40 per yard | Price starts to drop |
| 10 to 20 yards | \$15 – \$30 per yard | Getting into bulk price range |
| More than 20 yards | \$10 – \$25 per yard | Best bulk crushed rock prices per yard |
This table is just a general idea. Local crushed stone prices will be different everywhere. Always get a quote for your specific amount.
Getting Your Crushed Rock Delivered
Crushed stone delivery cost is a key part of the total cost. How does it work?
- Delivery Trucks: Rock is heavy. It needs a strong dump truck. Small loads might use a smaller truck. Large loads need a big truck.
- Drop Off Location: The truck will lift its bed to drop the rock. It needs space. Make sure there are no low wires, tree branches, or obstacles. The truck cannot drive on soft ground or across sidewalks without maybe causing damage. Plan exactly where you want the rock dumped before the truck arrives.
- Split Loads: Some trucks can carry two different materials or sizes. This costs extra but can save a second delivery fee.
- Scheduling: Schedule delivery for when you are ready. You or someone must be there to tell the driver where to dump the rock.
Delivery fees are usually a flat rate per trip within a certain distance. If you are farther away, they add more cost per mile. Ask your supplier about their delivery zones and fees.
Finding Local Crushed Stone Prices
Prices change a lot by location. This is because rock quarries are not everywhere. The price includes getting the rock from the quarry to the supplier near you.
To find local crushed stone prices:
- Search Online: Use terms like “crushed stone near me,” “gravel delivery [your town name],” “bulk aggregate supplier,” or “landscaping rock prices.”
- Call Local Quarries: If you are close to one, call them first. Ask for their price per cubic yard of crushed stone for the type and size you need. Ask about their minimum order for delivery and the delivery fee to your address.
- Call Local Stone Yards/Supply Stores: Call places that sell landscaping materials. They can give you gravel price per yard and crushed rock price per ton if they sell that way. Ask about delivery.
- Ask Neighbors or Local Builders: People who have done similar work in your area might know good suppliers and typical costs.
Get quotes from a few places. Compare the price per yard and the delivery cost. The cheapest rock price might have a high delivery fee. The higher rock price might have cheaper delivery if they are closer to you. Look at the total cost for the amount you need.
Tips for Saving Money on Crushed Rock
Crushed rock can be a big cost for a project. Here are ways to lower the price:
- Buy in Bulk: If you need 10 yards or more, always ask for bulk crushed rock prices. The price per cubic yard of crushed stone drops significantly when you buy more.
- Choose a Common Rock Type: Limestone or basic local gravel are usually the cheapest. Fancy colors or types raise the landscape rock cost per yard a lot.
- Check Different Suppliers: Do not just call one place. Get quotes from quarries, stone yards, and landscape suppliers. Local crushed stone prices can differ a lot.
- Offer to Pick It Up: If you have a truck or can rent a trailer, picking up the rock yourself saves the delivery fee. Make sure your vehicle can handle the weight! One yard of crushed rock is heavy (1.2 to 1.5 tons). Most light trucks can only carry 1/2 to 1 yard safely.
- Work With Neighbors: If neighbors also need rock, maybe you can order together. A larger combined order might get a better bulk price and you can split the delivery fee.
- Use Recycled Materials: If possible, use crushed concrete or asphalt. Aggregate prices per yard for recycled materials are often lower. Make sure it fits your project’s needs.
- Measure Carefully: Knowing exactly how much you need helps avoid paying for extra delivery for a small second load. Use the calculate crushed rock quantity steps mentioned earlier.
Deciphering The Price Quotes
When you get prices, make sure you understand what they include.
- Is the price per cubic yard or per ton?
- Does the price include tax?
- Is delivery included, or is it a separate fee?
- What is the minimum amount you must order for delivery?
- Are there extra fees if the delivery spot is hard to reach?
Comparing quotes means looking at the final price for the total amount of rock delivered to your location.
Thinking About Permeability and Drainage
The size and type of crushed rock affect how well water goes through it. This is called permeability.
- Larger, Uniform Sizes: Rocks that are mostly the same size with few small pieces have more space between them. Water goes through easily. Good for drainage layers.
- Smaller Sizes or Mixes with Fines: Rocks that have a lot of small dust or sand mixed in pack down tight. Water does not go through as easily. Good for base layers under patios or driveways, as they make a firm surface.
When choosing your rock, think about if you need water to drain away (like around house foundations or in wet areas) or if you need a solid base (like for a driveway). The right rock type and size for your project is important, not just the price. Gravel price per yard for washed gravel is higher, but it is better for drainage than standard crushed stone with fines.
How Much Is Enough Rock? Visualizing a Cubic Yard
It can be hard to imagine a cubic yard of rock.
- Think of a cube that is 3 feet tall, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet deep. That is one cubic yard.
- A standard pickup truck bed (like a Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado) might hold about 1/2 to 3/4 of a cubic yard when filled level with the top. Filling it higher is not safe because of the weight.
- A smaller trailer might hold 1 cubic yard, but check its weight limit. Remember, 1 yard weighs over a ton!
Visualizing the size helps you calculate crushed rock quantity better and understand why you need a delivery truck for bigger jobs.
Final Thoughts on Crushed Rock Costs
The question, “How much is a yard of crushed rock?” has many answers. Prices range from around \$10 to \$100 or more per yard. The main things that make the price change are the type of rock, its size, the amount you buy (bulk crushed rock prices are lower), where you live (local crushed stone prices), and the cost to deliver it (crushed stone delivery cost).
For common projects like a gravel driveway, expect to pay perhaps \$15 to \$30 per yard for the rock material itself, plus \$50 to \$300+ for delivery, depending on how much you need and how far away you are. The total cost of gravel driveway per yard laid down can be higher if you pay for installation.
For landscaping, the landscape rock cost per yard can be similar for basic gravel or much higher for special decorative stones. The quantity needed is often less, but delivery can still be a significant part of the cost. Aggregate prices per yard are generally lowest when buying large amounts from a quarry.
Always calculate crushed rock quantity needed carefully. Get quotes from several local suppliers to find the best total price, including delivery. By doing your homework, you can get the right rock for your project at the best possible cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crushed Rock Prices
h4 Is crushed stone sold by weight or volume?
Crushed stone can be sold by both weight (ton) and volume (cubic yard). For home projects, it is most often sold by the cubic yard. For very large amounts or specific types, it might be sold by the ton. Always ask the supplier which way they measure it.
h4 How much does a ton of crushed rock cost?
The crushed rock price per ton is related to the price per yard. Since a yard is usually 1.2 to 1.5 tons, a ton will cost a bit less than a yard. If a yard costs \$30, a ton might cost around \$20 to \$25. Prices per ton also change based on the type of rock, location, and quantity.
h4 Can I save money by picking up the rock myself?
Yes, picking up the rock can save you the crushed stone delivery cost. However, make sure your truck or trailer can safely carry the weight. One cubic yard is heavy (over 2000 pounds). Most home pickup trucks can only carry 1/2 to 3/4 of a yard safely. You might need multiple trips for larger projects.
h4 What is the cheapest type of crushed rock?
Usually, locally sourced crushed limestone or basic gravel without extra washing is the cheapest type. Recycled concrete or asphalt can also be very low in aggregate prices per yard.
h4 How deep should my crushed rock layer be?
The needed depth depends on the project. For walking paths or light ground cover, 2-4 inches might be enough. For driveways that vehicles will use, 4-6 inches or more is often needed, maybe with different sizes in layers. Drainage needs might require 6-12 inches or deeper.
h4 Do I need to calculate compaction when figuring out how much rock to order?
Yes, it is a good idea to add a little extra rock (like 10%) to your calculated amount. When you spread and pack the rock down, it will take up less space than when it is loose in the truck. Adding extra helps make sure you have enough.
h4 Why are local crushed stone prices different from another town?
Rock is heavy and costly to move far distances. The price depends a lot on how far the rock has to travel from the quarry where it is dug up and crushed. Prices also change based on how many quarries are in the area and local demand.