Gravel Driveway Cost Calculator
A 10x50 driveway at 4 inches deep needs about 9.5 tons of crushed stone with 10% waste. At $40 per ton, material alone is about $380.
Your result
- Gravel volume: — cu yd
- Gravel weight: — tons
- Material cost: —
Quick answer
A 10x50 driveway at 4 inches deep needs about 9.5 tons of crushed stone with 10% waste. At $40 per ton, material alone is about $380.
How the calculator works
Volume = length × width × (depth ÷ 12) ÷ 27. Tons = volume × density. Cost = tons × price per ton.
What changes gravel price most
Stone type, distance from the quarry, and delivery minimums matter more than most people expect.
Crushed base stone is usually the cheapest per ton, while pea gravel, river rock, and decorative chip cost more because they are washed and sorted.
How to order without overpaying
Get a delivered price per ton, not just the yard price. A low material price can disappear under a high delivery fee on a small order.
If your driveway needs more than 10 tons, ask about a full-truck discount. Suppliers often price partial loads higher per ton.
What a gravel driveway really costs over time
Gravel is one of the cheapest driveways to install, but it needs grading and top-ups.
A well-built driveway with fabric, compacted base, and the right surface stone can last many years with light maintenance. A thin layer over mud will need rebuilding quickly.
Note. Most suppliers charge delivery separately. A local short-haul delivery is often $50 to $150; longer hauls can exceed $300.
| Driveway size | Depth | Tons | Material cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 x 50 | 4" | 9.5 | $380 |
| 12 x 50 | 4" | 11.4 | $456 |
| 10 x 100 | 4" | 19.0 | $760 |
| 12 x 100 | 4" | 22.8 | $912 |
| 20 x 60 | 6" | 30.5 | $1,220 |
| 20 x 100 | 6" | 50.9 | $2,036 |
FAQ
How much does a gravel driveway cost per square foot?
About $0.70 to $1.20 per square foot for material at 4 inches deep and $30 to $60 per ton.
How many tons of gravel do I need for a 10x50 driveway?
About 8.6 tons net, or 9.5 tons with 10% waste for compaction and spillage.
Why do I need extra gravel?
Loose gravel compacts and spreads at the edges. A 10% waste margin is normal; 15% is better on soft ground or slopes.
Does gravel type change the cost?
Yes. Dense base stone is heavier and often cheaper per ton than decorative pea gravel or river rock.
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Last updated: 2026-10-29