2025 Gravel Prices – How Much Does 5 Tons of Gravel Cost

Planning a driveway, landscaping project, or construction job and wondering about gravel costs? You’re looking at $300 to $375 for 5 tons of gravel based on current national averages of $60 to $75 per ton. However, prices can range from $50 to $375 depending on the type of gravel, your location, and delivery requirements.

Understanding gravel pricing helps you budget accurately and avoid costly surprises. The total cost for your 5-ton project will depend on several factors including gravel type, regional pricing variations, delivery distance, and installation requirements.

Quick Answer: Five tons of standard crushed stone typically costs $300-$375, covers approximately 800-1,000 square feet at 4-inch depth, and weighs about 10,000 pounds when delivered.

Gravel cost per ton breakdown

Gravel prices vary significantly based on type and quality. Here’s what you can expect to pay per ton in 2025:

Crushed stone remains the most economical option at $15 to $30 per ton, making it perfect for driveways and road base applications. This angular gravel compacts well and provides excellent stability for heavy traffic areas.

Pea gravel costs between $28 to $45 per ton due to its smooth, rounded appearance and decorative appeal. It’s commonly used for walkways, playgrounds, and landscaping accents where aesthetics matter.

River rock commands premium pricing at $35 to $65 per ton because of its natural beauty and limited availability. The smooth, water-polished stones create attractive water features and high-end landscaping designs.

Regional variations can add 10% to 25% to these base prices, with Western states typically seeing higher costs due to transportation distances and local demand. For detailed regional pricing information, check out our guide on gravel prices per ton in Ohio which provides insights into state-specific pricing trends.

Coverage and conversion calculations

Understanding how much area 5 tons of gravel covers helps you determine if this quantity meets your project needs. The coverage depends on the depth you’re applying and the specific gravel type.

At a standard 4-inch depth, 5 tons of gravel covers approximately 800 to 1,000 square feet. For a 2-inch depth, the same amount covers 1,600 to 2,000 square feet, while a deeper 6-inch application covers about 530 to 670 square feet.

Volume conversions are essential for accurate ordering. One cubic yard of gravel typically weighs 1.3 to 1.7 tons, meaning 5 tons equals roughly 3 to 4 cubic yards depending on the gravel density and moisture content. Learn more about pricing gravel by the yard to understand different measurement options.

Pro Tip: Always order 10% extra gravel to account for compaction, settling, and future maintenance needs.

Delivery and total project costs

Delivery significantly impacts your total 5-ton gravel cost. Most suppliers require minimum orders of 10 to 15 tons for standard truck deliveries, which means you might need to coordinate with neighbors or plan additional projects.

Standard delivery fees range from $50 to $300 depending on distance from the supplier. Local deliveries within 10 miles typically cost $50 to $100, while longer distances can push delivery costs to $200 or more. For comprehensive information about delivery expenses, explore our guide to gravel delivery prices.

Bulk truck loads offer better value for larger projects. A standard tri-axle dump truck carries 15 to 20 tons and costs $1,350 to $1,800 delivered, making the per-ton cost more economical than smaller orders. If you’re considering larger quantities, our article on how much 100 tons of gravel costs provides valuable insights into bulk pricing advantages.

Consider these additional expenses when budgeting your project: equipment rental for spreading ($75 to $150 per day), labor costs if hiring professionals ($2 to $5 per square foot installed), and site preparation including excavation or grading.

Regional pricing and supplier selection

Gravel prices fluctuate based on local supply, demand, and transportation costs. Understanding regional variations helps you set realistic budget expectations and find the best deals.

Urban areas typically see higher prices due to increased demand and limited quarry access. Metropolitan regions often add 15% to 25% to base gravel costs compared to rural areas with nearby suppliers.

Seasonal pricing affects availability and costs. Spring and summer months see peak demand, potentially increasing prices by 10% to 20%. Planning your project for fall or winter can yield significant savings if weather permits.

When selecting suppliers, request quotes from at least three local companies. Compare not just the per-ton price but also delivery fees, minimum order requirements, and gravel quality. Established suppliers often provide better customer service and more consistent product quality. For a deeper understanding of pricing structures, read our comprehensive guide on the cost of gravel per ton.

Money-Saving Strategy: Group orders with neighbors or plan multiple projects simultaneously to meet minimum delivery requirements and reduce per-ton costs.

Local quarries and aggregate suppliers typically offer the most competitive pricing since they eliminate middleman markups. Building supply stores provide convenience but often charge premium prices for smaller quantities. Understanding current gravel prices per ton delivered helps you negotiate better rates with suppliers.

Planning your 5-ton gravel purchase requires balancing cost, quality, and convenience factors. With prices ranging from $300 to $375 plus delivery, getting multiple quotes and understanding your coverage needs ensures you make an informed decision that fits your budget and project requirements.

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