Landscaping Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost of landscaping materials.

Last updated 2026-08-21

What Is a Landscaping Cost Calculator?

The landscaping cost calculator estimates what you will pay for bulk landscape materials like mulch, topsoil, gravel, and sand. You enter the volume in cubic yards and the price per cubic yard to get a quick material budget for your project.

How It Works

Cost = Volume (cu yd) × Price per cubic yard.

Example

5 cubic yards at $40/yd³ = $200.

How to Calculate

  1. Find the volume you need using the matching material calculator, in cubic yards. For example, 5 cubic yards of mulch.
  2. Get a price per cubic yard from a local supplier. Bulk mulch often runs about $40 per yard.
  3. Enter the volume and price. At 5 cubic yards and $40 per yard, the material cost is $200.
  4. Add delivery, which many suppliers charge separately and can be significant for small orders.
  5. Add about 10% more volume for topsoil and gravel, since these compact in place, then total your budget.

Typical Bulk Material Cost per Cubic Yard

MaterialPrice per Cubic YardApprox. Weight per Yard
Mulch$25 to $50400 to 800 lb
Topsoil$20 to $402,000 lb
Gravel$30 to $602,800 lb
Pea gravel$35 to $602,600 lb
Sand$25 to $502,700 lb

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What do bulk materials cost per yard?

Mulch $25–$50, topsoil $20–$40, gravel $30–$60 per yard, depending on region and delivery.

Does price include delivery?

Often not — ask about delivery fees, which can be significant for small orders.

Should I add waste or compaction?

Materials compact in place; consider adding 10% for topsoil and gravel.

Mason ReidFounder and Lead Estimator at MeasureThen

Mason Reid founded MeasureThen after two decades of hands-on work in construction and estimating. Across residential and light commercial projects, he sized concrete pours, framed walls, hung drywall, and priced out roofing, fencing, and deck work — learning the exact math that every job depends on. At MeasureThen he writes the formulas, checks every calculator against real-world assumptions, and makes sure each one is simple enough for a homeowner to trust and a contractor to use. When he is not measuring twice, he is helping projects stay on budget.

Every MeasureThen calculator uses simple, transparent formulas and standard industry assumptions drawn from common construction practice. We show the math behind each result and include worked examples so you can follow along and double-check the numbers. Results are estimates: materials, labor, and pricing vary by region and market, so always confirm important figures with a licensed professional and your local building codes.