How much topsoil do I need?

Use the formula: Length × Width × Depth (inches) ÷ 324 = cubic yards. For a new lawn, use 4–6 inches of topsoil. For garden beds, 4–6 inches. For raised beds, 8–12 inches.

Topsoil Calculator

Q: How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?

A cubic yard of topsoil typically weighs 1,400–2,000 lbs depending on moisture and composition. Dry screened topsoil weighs about 1,400 lbs; wet clay topsoil can exceed 2,000 lbs.

Q: How much is a yard of topsoil?

Bulk topsoil costs $15–$50 per cubic yard. Screened topsoil runs $25–$50. Delivery adds $40–$75. Bagged topsoil at big box stores is more expensive per cubic yard.

How much topsoil do you need? Enter your area and depth for instant results in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cost estimates.

Formulas reviewed June 2026 · Based on standard cubic-yard math. Our methodology →

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Depth (inches)

📋 Now you know how much — how do you apply it, and which soil?

Topsoil for filling and grading is different from garden soil for planting. Apply it in layers for best results.

How to Spread Topsoil →Topsoil vs Garden Soil →Coverage Chart →

⚠Order 10% extra — e.g. 5 yards → order 5.5 yards · 20 bags → order 22 bags. Accounts for settling, waste, and irregular shapes.

ℹFormulas based on standard cubic yard calculations (L × W × D ÷ 27). See our methodology →

$Pricing reflects US national averages ($35/yd mulch, $38/yd gravel, $25/yd topsoil). Local prices vary 20–40% — call 2–3 local landscape supply yards for quotes before ordering.

Topsoil Depth Guide

Project	Recommended Depth	Coverage per Yard
Top-dressing existing lawn	1–2 inches	162–324 sq ft/yd³
New lawn from seed	4–6 inches	54–81 sq ft/yd³
Garden bed (shallow)	4–6 inches	54–81 sq ft/yd³
Raised bed	8–12 inches	27–40 sq ft/yd³
Filling low spots	2–4 inches	Varies by depth

How Much Does a Yard of Topsoil Weigh?

A cubic yard of topsoil weighs approximately 1,400–2,000 lbs (0.7–1 ton) depending on moisture content and soil composition. Dry screened topsoil is lighter (~1,400 lbs), while wet heavy clay topsoil can exceed 2,000 lbs.

How Much Is a Yard of Topsoil?

Bulk topsoil costs $15–$50 per cubic yard. Screened topsoil runs $25–$50. Delivery typically adds $40–$75. Bagged topsoil (40 lb bags) at big box stores costs $5–$8 per bag — much more expensive per cubic yard.

Bulk vs Bagged — Which Is Cheaper?

For any project over 50 sq ft, bulk topsoil delivered by the yard is far cheaper. A real comparison for a 500 sq ft lawn at 4 inches (6.2 yards):

Bulk topsoil

6.2 yards × $30 = $186

Delivery: $50–$75

Total: ~$240

Bagged (40 lb)

222 bags × $5 = $1,110

No delivery needed

Total: ~$1,110

Bags cost 4–5× more for large areas. Only use bags for fill-ins under 0.5 yards. See the full coverage chart →

📚 Sources & Further Reading

›Penn State Extension — Soils and Soil Management
›University of Minnesota Extension — Understanding Soil Types
›USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service — Soil Quality

Learn about our research methodology →