How Much Is a Ton of Gravel? 2025 Price Guide, Cost Factors, and Buying Tips

If you plan to improve a driveway, start a new garden path, or update your landscape, you’re probably asking: how much is a ton of gravel in 2025? Getting an accurate price for gravel by the ton is essential for smart budgeting and choosing the right supplier. This expert guide covers current gravel costs per ton, what changes your price, and how to make the most of your investment.

Gravel remains a top pick for home and commercial projects because it’s affordable, easy to use, and reliable for many purposes. Read on for all you need to know before your next purchase.

What Does a Ton of Gravel Mean and How Much Will It Cover?

A ton of gravel weighs 2,000 pounds in the United States. Most types will cover between 80 and 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth, ideal for paths and light landscaping. At deeper layers, coverage decreases. Always use the same ton measurement when comparing quotes.

Sizes and types of gravel impact coverage. Pea gravel, crushed stone, and river rock all spread differently. Check bag or bulk ordering guidelines for the material’s estimated coverage in your project.

Average Price of a Ton of Gravel in 2025

In 2025, the average ton of gravel costs between $30 and $75 before delivery. The actual price depends on the material type, region, and order size. Here’s a breakdown of typical gravel costs by the ton:

Bulk buyers often pay less per ton, and prices fluctuate with regional supply and demand.

Factors That Impact Gravel Price Per Ton

Type and Quality of Gravel

Budget gravel options like pea gravel or basic crushed stone are the cheapest per ton. Decorative gravels with color, size consistency, or rare stone types cost significantly more.

Order Size and Bulk Pricing

Bigger orders mean bigger savings. Many suppliers discount big deliveries, especially those over 10 tons. For small landscaping jobs, you may pay a slightly higher rate per ton.

Delivery Location and Distance

If you’re far from a quarry or stone yard, delivery costs climb. Local projects near suppliers can get better rates and sometimes even free delivery for large orders.

Season and Local Market Conditions

Spring and summer construction spikes can temporarily raise gravel prices. In some regions, gravel costs more because supplies are limited or transportation is expensive.

How Much Area Does a Ton of Gravel Cover?

Coverage depends on the type and size of gravel but, in general:

• At a 2-inch depth, one ton covers about 80 to 100 square feet.
• At a 4-inch depth, coverage drops to about 40 to 50 square feet.
• Larger, chunkier gravels (river rock) spread further apart, reducing total coverage.

Use a pea gravel calculator for project-specific measurements and to avoid under- or over-ordering.

How to Calculate the Amount of Gravel You Need in Tons

Measure your project area’s length and width in feet and decide on your ideal depth. Multiply length × width × depth (convert inches to feet). Divide that number by 21.6, which estimates one ton’s coverage at 2-inch depth for most gravel types.

Example:
Driveway, 20 feet long by 10 feet wide at 2-inch depth:
20 × 10 × 0.167 = 33.4 cubic feet
33.4 ÷ 21.6 ≈ 1.55 tons needed

Always round up to avoid falling short.

Comparing Popular Types of Gravel by the Ton

Pea gravel is small, smooth, and budget-friendly, making it great for play areas or decorative beds. Crushed stone is more angular and ideal for driveways and heavy-use spots. Decorative gravel, including river rock and colored stones, is the most expensive but delivers striking looks for landscaping.

Choosing recycled options (like crushed concrete) can cut costs and help the environment, especially for foundational layers.

Tips to Save When Buying Gravel by the Ton

• Buy only what your project truly requires over-ordering wastes money.
• Source gravel from companies close to the worksite for cost-effective delivery.
• Compare bulk quotes from several suppliers.
• Ask about recycled gravel or road base for the lowest price.
• Plan your purchase during less busy seasons for lower rates.

Practical Example: Cost of Gravel for a Walkway

For a 30-foot by 4-foot walkway at a 2-inch depth:
30 × 4 × 0.167 = 20 cubic feet
20 ÷ 21.6 = 0.93 tons needed
If using standard pea gravel at $40 per ton: 0.93 × $40 = $37.20 plus delivery

Use the Gravel Calculator to get a fast, accurate amount before placing your order.Learn more about aggregate materials and industry standards from the US Geological Survey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a ton of gravel in 2025?

Gravel usually costs between $30 and $75 per ton in 2025. The final price depends on the material type, your region, delivery distance, and order size.

What’s the cheapest type of gravel by the ton?

Crushed stone, crusher run, and road base often offer the lowest prices by the ton, especially when purchased in large quantities for foundational use.

How much area does a ton of gravel cover?

A ton covers roughly 80 to 100 square feet at two inches deep or 40 to 50 square feet at four inches. For bigger stones, coverage goes down.

Should I buy gravel by the ton or the cubic yard?

Bulk gravel is often sold by the ton for large projects and by the cubic yard for smaller batches. Rates are comparable, but always confirm with your supplier and convert units if needed.

Does gravel delivery cost extra?

Most suppliers add a fee based on distance and order size, though very large or local orders can sometimes qualify for discounted or free delivery.

Can I mix types of gravel in one delivery?

Some suppliers allow mixed loads, but most recommend using a single gravel type per ton to ensure even coverage and best results for your project.

How can I get the best deal on gravel by the ton?

Contact several local suppliers, buy in larger amounts if possible, ask about recycled options, and plan your project ahead of peak construction season.