Calculators / Topsoil
Topsoil Calculator
To calculate topsoil, enter the length, width, and depth; this tool returns the volume in cubic yards and a cost estimate. One cubic yard covers 108 sq ft at 3 inches deep.
Real math, not AI guesses.
You need
3.7 cubic yards
Estimated cost
~$130
- Volume
- 100 cu ft
- Cubic yards
- 3.7
Estimate only — actual quantities and prices vary by region and supplier. Verify with a professional before purchasing. Default price is a national average (as of 2026-06); edit it to match your supplier.
How to calculate topsoil
The formula: cubic yards = (length × width × depth⁄12) ÷ 27
- Measure the length and width in feet and the depth in inches.
- Multiply length × width × (depth ÷ 12) for cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards.
- Use 3–4 inches for new beds and 4–6 inches for raised beds or leveling.
- Topsoil settles, so round up rather than down.
Prices shown are national averages (as of 2026-06) and vary by region, brand, and supplier. They are estimates, not quotes.
How much does topsoil cost?
Bulk topsoil costs roughly $15–$50 per cubic yard depending on quality and whether it is screened, before delivery; bagged topsoil runs about $2–$5 per bag and is far pricier per yard. Bulk delivery is the cheaper option for any real area. For a 20×15 area at 4 inches deep (about 3.7 cubic yards), that is roughly $55–$185 in bulk topsoil before delivery.
What drives the cost
- Quality: screened and compost-blended topsoil costs more than basic fill dirt.
- Bulk vs bags: bulk is dramatically cheaper per cubic yard for lawns and beds.
- Delivery is a flat per-trip fee, larger on longer hauls.
- Spreading and grading labor if you hire it — most of an installed price is labor.
DIY vs. hiring a pro
For a few beds or topping up a lawn, order bulk delivery and spread it yourself — the soil is cheap, the labor is the work. For a full lawn regrade, leveling, or grading for drainage, a landscaper with a skid steer saves a lot of wheelbarrow trips and gives a more even result. Get a couple of quotes if you are hiring.
Installed and labor figures are national-average ranges, not quotes — get a few local estimates for your project.
Topsoil FAQ
How much topsoil do I need?+
A 20 ft × 15 ft area at 4 inches deep is about 3.7 cubic yards of topsoil.
How many cubic yards of topsoil cover 1000 sq ft?+
At 3 inches deep, 1000 sq ft needs about 9.3 cubic yards of topsoil.
How much does topsoil cost for a lawn?+
Covering 1,000 sq ft at 3 inches deep needs about 9.3 cubic yards. In bulk at $15–$50 per yard that is roughly $140–$465 in topsoil, before delivery and any spreading labor.
Is bagged or bulk topsoil cheaper?+
Bulk is far cheaper per cubic yard. Bagged topsoil only makes sense for small container or raised-bed jobs.