Topsoil is the uppermost layer of the earth, rich in organic matter and nutrients, making it the ideal foundation for any gardening or landscaping project. Because the quality and source of this material vary significantly, the price you pay for it is also highly variable. Understanding the factors that determine this cost is the first step in budgeting for your project, whether you are simply amending a flower bed or starting a new lawn. This guide will provide a comprehensive look at the costs associated with topsoil, from average prices to volume calculations and purchasing options.
Average Cost Per Cubic Yard
The average price for a cubic yard of basic, bulk topsoil typically falls within a range of $25 to $50, before considering delivery fees. A cubic yard is a volumetric measurement equal to 27 cubic feet, roughly equivalent to a standard pickup truck bed filled level with material or approximately 10 to 15 standard wheelbarrows full of soil. For smaller projects, you might find topsoil sold by the half-yard scoop for $10 to $30 when picking it up yourself. The cost difference is substantial depending on the quality of the product you choose. Basic screened topsoil is generally at the lower end of the price spectrum, while specialized blends cost more.
Key Factors Influencing Topsoil Pricing
The composition and quality of the soil represent a major factor in its cost. Basic topsoil, often referred to as “black dirt,” is a combination of loam and sand with some silt and clay. Screened topsoil is an improved product that has been filtered through a mesh to remove large debris, rocks, and weed seeds, which increases its price. Higher-end products, such as enriched or pulverized soil, contain added organic materials like compost or manure, which boost nutrient content and water retention. These premium soil blends, sometimes called triple mix or garden blend, are designed for optimal plant growth and can cost significantly more than basic screened topsoil.
The location of your project and the distance from the source quarry or soil yard also heavily influence the final price. Transportation and fuel costs are a large component of the overall expense, meaning prices tend to be higher in urban areas or remote locations. Areas with abundant natural resources often have more competitive pricing for the raw material.
Purchasing method also affects the unit cost, with bulk material being the most economical choice. Topsoil sold in 40-pound bags is significantly more expensive per unit volume. For instance, a cubic yard of topsoil purchased in bags can cost $35 to $120, compared to $10 to $50 for the bulk material. Bagged topsoil is best reserved for small applications like container gardening or minor amendments.
Calculating Volume and Coverage
Accurately determining the necessary volume is essential for efficient budgeting and project planning. Topsoil is measured by volume in cubic yards, which requires you to know the length, width, and desired depth of your project area. To calculate the cubic footage, multiply the length by the width by the depth, with all measurements in feet. The final step is dividing the total cubic footage by 27, since there are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard. It is often recommended to round up to the nearest half or whole yard when ordering to ensure you have enough material.
One cubic yard of topsoil, when spread out, can cover a large area depending on the depth you choose. A one-inch layer of topsoil will cover about 324 square feet. For common landscaping tasks, a cubic yard will cover roughly 100 square feet at a three-inch depth, which is suitable for general lawn topdressing or overseeding. A new garden bed, however, may require a depth of 8 to 12 inches for optimal plant root development.
Comparing Topsoil Suppliers and Delivery Options
There are three main types of suppliers for purchasing topsoil, each offering different cost and logistical advantages. Landscape supply yards are often the best source for buying topsoil in bulk by the cubic yard, offering a variety of screened and blended soils at mid-range prices and providing delivery services. Home improvement stores primarily focus on selling bagged topsoil, which is convenient for small projects but significantly more costly per unit volume. Direct purchasing from quarries or farms can sometimes yield the lowest price for the soil itself. However, these sources may have high minimum order requirements for bulk delivery.
Delivery fees are an important logistical cost that can add substantially to the total price, often ranging from $50 to $150 or more. Delivery is usually calculated as a flat rate or tiered based on the distance from the supplier to your location. This charge can be a significant portion of the total expense, especially when ordering smaller quantities.