Gravel Driveway Cost Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$288 – $576
$1.00 – $2.00 per sq ft
Material
$144 – $288
Labor
$144 – $288
Gravel Needed
7.5 tons
Coverage
288 sq ft
Ordering Tip: Order 10% extra gravel to account for compaction and settling. For 7.5 tons, order at least 8.2 tons.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Gravel Driveway Cost Breakdown
| Gravel Type | Material / Sq Ft | Labor / Sq Ft | Total / Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crusher Run | $0.50 – $1.00 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $1.00 – $2.00 |
| Crushed Stone (#57) | $0.75 – $1.25 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $1.25 – $2.25 |
| Pea Gravel | $0.80 – $1.50 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $1.30 – $2.50 |
| River Rock | $1.00 – $2.00 | $0.75 – $1.50 | $1.75 – $3.50 |
Average Project Costs by Driveway Size (Crusher Run, 6" Depth)
| Driveway | Size | Gravel Needed | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Car | 20 × 12 ft (240 sq ft) | 6.2 tons | $240 – $480 |
| Two Car | 24 × 20 ft (480 sq ft) | 12.4 tons | $480 – $960 |
| Parking Pad | 20 × 20 ft (400 sq ft) | 10.4 tons | $400 – $800 |
| Long Driveway | 60 × 12 ft (720 sq ft) | 18.7 tons | $720 – $1,440 |
How We Calculate
Our gravel driveway cost calculator estimates project costs using driveway area (length × width) as the base unit. Material costs are applied per square foot and scale with gravel depth, while labor costs remain flat per square foot regardless of depth.
How the math works: We multiply your driveway length by width to get total area in square feet. Material costs use a per-square-foot rate at a standard 6-inch depth, then multiply by a depth factor for other thicknesses. Labor costs use a flat per-square-foot rate since spreading gravel takes roughly the same effort at any depth. Tonnage is calculated as: area × depth (in inches) ÷ 324 = cubic yards, then × 1.4 to convert to tons.
Gravel Types Comparison
Crusher Run ($1–$2/sq ft) is the most popular and economical driveway gravel. It compacts firmly into a solid surface because it contains a mix of crushed stone and fine particles that lock together. Best for most residential driveways.
Crushed Stone #57 ($1.25–$2.25/sq ft) features angular, uniform-sized stones that interlock well and provide excellent drainage. A versatile mid-range option suitable for both base and surface layers.
Pea Gravel ($1.30–$2.50/sq ft) consists of small, rounded, naturally smooth stones. It's attractive and comfortable underfoot but shifts more than angular gravel. Better suited for walkways, patios, and decorative areas than heavy-traffic driveways.
River Rock ($1.75–$3.50/sq ft) features larger, smooth decorative stones. It's the most visually striking option but provides the least stable driving surface. Best for borders, turnarounds, and low-traffic areas.
Depth Factors
Gravel depth directly affects material cost and tonnage needed. A 4-inch layer uses about 67% of the material of a standard 6-inch installation, while 12 inches doubles the material cost. Labor remains consistent since equipment and spreading time are similar regardless of depth. The standard 6-inch depth works for most residential driveways on prepared ground.
Tonnage Calculation
Gravel is sold by the ton, so knowing your tonnage is essential for ordering. The conversion factor of 1.4 tons per cubic yard is an industry standard for crushed gravel. We recommend ordering 10% extra to account for compaction, settling, and minor spillage during delivery and spreading.
Additional Cost Factors
Our estimates cover gravel material and installation labor but do not include site preparation, excavation ($1–$3/sq ft if needed), geotextile fabric ($0.30–$0.60/sq ft), drainage improvements, or edging materials. Delivery fees typically run $50–$150 per load and may already be included in supplier quotes.
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, RSMeans, and verified contractor estimates across multiple US regions. We review and update this data regularly to reflect current material and labor rates.
Last updated: 2026-02-02
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a gravel driveway cost? +
A gravel driveway costs $1–$3.50 per square foot installed, depending on gravel type and depth. Crusher run is the most affordable at $1–$2/sq ft, while river rock runs $1.75–$3.50/sq ft. A standard single-car driveway (240 sq ft) costs $240–$480, and a two-car driveway (480 sq ft) runs $480–$960 with crusher run at 6" depth.
What is the best type of gravel for a driveway? +
Crusher run (also called crush and run or ABC gravel) is the best all-around choice for driveways. It contains a mix of crushed stone and stone dust that compacts firmly, creating a stable surface that resists shifting. Crushed stone (#57) is another popular option that drains well. Pea gravel looks attractive but shifts underfoot and under tires, making it better for walkways than driveways.
How deep should a gravel driveway be? +
A standard gravel driveway should be 6 inches deep — typically 4 inches of base gravel topped with 2 inches of surface gravel. For heavy-use driveways or areas with soft soil, 8 inches provides better stability. New construction on unprepared ground may need 12 inches total depth. A 4-inch layer is suitable only for topping up an existing gravel driveway.
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway? +
To calculate gravel tonnage: multiply length × width × depth (in feet), divide by 27 to get cubic yards, then multiply by 1.4 to convert to tons. For example, a 20×12 ft driveway at 6" depth needs about 6.2 tons. Most suppliers sell by the ton, and ordering 10% extra accounts for compaction and settling.
How long does a gravel driveway last? +
A well-maintained gravel driveway lasts indefinitely with periodic maintenance. Plan to add a fresh 1–2 inch top layer every 1–2 years ($0.50–$1.50/sq ft). Grading to fix ruts and potholes is needed 1–2 times per year. With proper drainage and a good base, the foundation layer can last 20+ years without replacement.
Can I install a gravel driveway myself? +
Yes, gravel driveways are one of the most DIY-friendly driveway options. You'll need to grade the area, lay landscape fabric (optional but recommended), and spread the gravel in layers. The main challenge is having gravel delivered and spread evenly — a cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons. DIY saves $0.50–$1.50/sq ft in labor costs. Renting a plate compactor ($50–$100/day) helps achieve a firm surface.
Is gravel cheaper than concrete for a driveway? +
Yes, gravel is significantly cheaper upfront. Gravel driveways cost $1–$3.50/sq ft installed vs $4–$10/sq ft for concrete. However, gravel requires ongoing maintenance (annual top-ups, grading) that concrete doesn't. Over 20 years, the total cost of ownership is similar — but gravel has a much lower initial investment, making it popular for long driveways and rural properties.
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