Landscaping Rock Calculator
Calculate tons of landscaping rock by type — river rock, pea gravel, crushed stone, decomposed granite, lava rock, and more. Free with comparison table.
Rock Type Comparison (500 sq ft at 2" depth)
| Rock Type | Category | lbs/cu yd | Tons | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| River Rock (1-3") | decorative | 2,700 | 4.17 | $208 |
| Pea Gravel | decorative | 2,600 | 4.01 | $140 |
| Crushed Stone (#57) | structural | 2,800 | 4.32 | $130 |
| Decomposed Granite | pathway | 2,500 | 3.86 | $154 |
| Lava Rock | decorative | 1,500 | 2.31 | $174 |
| Mexican Beach Pebble | decorative | 2,800 | 4.32 | $346 |
| Marble Chips | decorative | 2,600 | 4.01 | $261 |
| Drain Rock (#4) | drainage | 2,700 | 4.17 | $146 |
How It Works
This calculator uses the formula: Tons = (Area x Depth / 324) x (lbs per cubic yard / 2,000).
Enter your project area in square feet, select the depth of rock you want, and choose a rock type. The calculator instantly shows tons needed, cubic yards, and an estimated cost based on typical material pricing.
The comparison table lets you see how different rock types compare at your exact dimensions so you can choose the best option for your budget and design.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of rock do I need?
Multiply your area (sq ft) by depth (inches), divide by 324 to get cubic yards, then multiply by the rock's weight per cubic yard and divide by 2,000. For example, 500 sq ft at 2" of pea gravel (2,600 lbs/cu yd) requires about 4 tons.
What depth of landscaping rock should I use?
For decorative rock and ground cover, 2–3 inches is standard. For pathways and high-traffic areas, 3–4 inches provides better coverage. For drainage applications like french drains, use 4–6 inches of drain rock.
What is the cheapest landscaping rock?
Crushed stone (#57) and pea gravel are typically the most affordable options at $30–$40 per ton. Decorative stones like Mexican beach pebble and lava rock run $65–$80 per ton. Delivery fees vary by distance.
How much area does 1 ton of rock cover?
Coverage depends on rock type and depth. At 2" depth, 1 ton of pea gravel (2,600 lbs/cu yd) covers about 125 sq ft, while 1 ton of lava rock (1,500 lbs/cu yd) covers about 215 sq ft due to its lighter weight.