How to use it
- Enter the area's length and width.
- Enter the depth — 2–3 in for paths and beds, 4–6 in for a base layer.
- Pick the gravel type and your state.
- Keep about 5% extra for settling.
The formula
Cubic yards = length × width × depth ÷ 27
Tons = cubic yards × density (about 1.35–1.5 tons per yard)
Worked example
| Length | 20 ft |
| Width | 10 ft |
| Depth | 3 in |
| Material | Gravel (general) — 1.4 t/yd³ |
| State (for price) | U.S. average |
| Extra for settling / compaction | 5 % |
Result
| Cubic yards | 1.94 yd³ |
| Tons | 2.72 short tons |
| Cubic feet | 52.5 ft³ |
| Cubic meters | 1.49 m³ |
| Area covered | 200 ft² |
| Estimated material cost | $27–$136 |
Tips before you order
- One cubic yard of gravel covers about 108 ft² at 3 in deep and 81 ft² at 4 in deep.
- Lay landscape fabric first on paths and beds to keep the gravel from sinking into soil.
- Most quarries have a delivery minimum; picking up yourself avoids the delivery charge but a pickup bed holds only about ½ yd³ of gravel safely.
See typical gravel prices for every state on the gravel prices by state page.
Questions
How much does a yard of gravel cover?
About 108 ft² at 3 in deep, 162 ft² at 2 in and 81 ft² at 4 in.
How much does gravel cost?
U.S. average prices run about $10–$50 per ton or $15–$75 per cubic yard before delivery (HomeGuide, December 2025).
Why do tons and yards give different answers at the yard?
Suppliers sell by weight (tons) or by volume (cubic yards). The conversion depends on the material's density and moisture — wet material weighs more per yard. Ask your supplier which unit they price in.