Topsoil Calculator

Estimate topsoil for new lawns, leveling low spots and topping up garden beds.

%

Cubic yards

2.59 yd³

  • Tons2.85 short tons
  • Cubic feet70 ft³
  • Cubic meters1.98 m³
  • Area covered200 ft²
  • Estimated material cost$29–$143

Estimates only. Round up when you order, and confirm structural details with your local building code.

How to use it

  1. Enter the area.
  2. Enter the depth — 4–6 in under new sod or seed, 1–2 in to top-dress.
  3. Keep extra; topsoil settles 10–20% as it compacts.

The formula

Cubic yards = area × depth ÷ 27

Tons ≈ cubic yards × 1.1

Worked example

Length20 ft
Width10 ft
Depth4 in
State (for price)U.S. average
Extra for settling / compaction5 %

Result

Cubic yards2.59 yd³
Tons2.85 short tons
Cubic feet70 ft³
Cubic meters1.98 m³
Area covered200 ft²
Estimated material cost$29–$143

Tips before you order

  • Screened topsoil costs more but spreads evenly and has fewer rocks and roots.
  • Ask for a soil test or the supplier's mix data before buying for a vegetable garden.

Questions

How much does a yard of topsoil cover?

About 81 ft² at 4 in deep or 162 ft² at 2 in.