Landscaping Rock Pricing Guide for Homeowners

From decorative garden beds to functional walkways and driveways, low-maintenance stone materials can elevate both the look and performance of your outdoor space. Before starting a home improvement project, though, it helps to understand how much landscaping rocks cost and what factors influence pricing.

At a Glance: Landscaping Rock Costs

The costs below are average costs for landscaping rocks in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. Costs do not include professional labor costs or delivery fees, and assume the owner will pick up the rocks themselves.

Pea Gravel Costs

• By volume (cubic yard): $32.00
• By weight (ton): $28.50

Mulch Costs

• By volume (cubic yard): $25.00
• By weight (ton): $75.00

Lava Rock Costs

• By volume (cubic yard): $127
• By weight (ton): $300

Crushed Granite Costs

• By volume (cubic yard): $150.00
• By weight (ton): $150.00

Factors Affecting the Cost of Rock-focused Landscaping Projects

Type of Rock

The type of stone you choose plays a major role in pricing. Decorative stones like river rock, flagstone, or sandstone often cost more than pea gravel or other types of crushed stone.

Quantity of Stone

The amount of material you need will directly impact your total cost. Landscaping rocks are typically sold by the ton, cubic yard, or sometimes cubic feet. Larger installations may involve multiple tons or full pallets of stone. Accurate measurements are key to avoiding over- or under-ordering.

Landscape Stone Size

Stone size affects both price and functionality. Smaller stones like pea gravel are usually more affordable and easier to spread. Larger stones or boulders tend to cost more due to sourcing and transportation.

Labor Costs

While material costs are important, labor can also significantly increase your total project price. Delivery fees, site preparation, grading, and installation costs all quickly add to a project's total.

Type of Landscaping Project

Different projects require different landscaping supplies and levels of effort. Simple decorative rock garden beds are typically more cost effective. In contrast, hardscape features like walkways, patios, driveways, retaining walls, and water features surrounded by rock often require more material and skilled labor.

Size of Project

The overall size of your project, usually measured in square feet, has a major impact on cost. Larger spaces naturally require more materials, more labor, and more time to complete. That means that even small increases in square footage can significantly impact your budget.

Landscaping Rock Cost FAQs

How much does 1 ton of rock cover?

On average, 1 ton of rock covers 75 SQFT.

How much is 1000 sq. ft. of gravel?

On average, 1000 sq. ft. of gravel costs [$325.00.

How much is 1 cubic yard of rock?

On average, 1 cubic yard of rock costs [$190.00].

How much does 1 cubic yard of crushed rock cover?

On average, 1 cubic yard of crushed rock covers [100SQFT].

How much does pea gravel cost?

On average, pea gravel costs [$32].

How many cubic yards or tons of river rock do I need for 100 sq. ft.?

To cover 100 sq. ft., on average, it takes about [1.33 tons] of river rock.

How do I know how much rock I need for my landscaping project?

To estimate how much rock you need for a landscaping project:

1. Measure the length and width of your space (in square feet).
2. Determine the desired depth in inches.
3. Convert this information into cubic yards or tons to estimate how much material you need.

Does rock size affect the price?

Yes, rock size can affect price. Larger stones often cost more due to increased material weight and transportation costs.

What factors influence the cost of landscaping rocks?

Primary factors affecting landscape rock pricing include the type of stone you choose, quantity needed, stone size, delivery fees, installation costs, project size, and landscape design complexity.

Planning Your Landscaping Rock Project

Choosing the right landscaping rock is about more than just price. It is about finding the right balance between aesthetics, functionality, and long-term maintenance for your outdoor living space.