Cheapest Gravel for Driveways in 2025

Looking for the most budget-friendly way to build or upgrade your driveway? You’re in the right place. Recycled asphalt typically costs $10-$20 per ton, making it the cheapest gravel option for driveways. Most homeowners spend between $1,500-$1,800 total for a complete gravel driveway project, which works out to roughly $1-$4 per square foot depending on your material choice and local labor costs.

The key to getting the best value isn’t just picking the cheapest material though. You’ll want to consider factors like durability, maintenance needs, and how the gravel will look with your home’s style. Some slightly pricier options might actually save you money long-term through reduced upkeep.

Quick fact: A typical single-car driveway (200 square feet) costs between $250-$900 in materials alone, while a double-car driveway can range from $800-$2,560 depending on your gravel choice.

Most affordable gravel types for driveways

When you’re shopping for driveway gravel, understanding your options helps you make the smartest financial decision. Here’s how the most popular materials stack up in terms of cost and performance.

Recycled asphalt takes the top spot for affordability at $10-$20 per ton. This material comes from crushed and reused pavement, making it both eco-friendly and wallet-friendly. It compacts well over time, creating a solid surface that handles vehicle traffic without much maintenance.

Crusher run or road base comes in second at $18-$30 per ton. This mix of crushed stone and stone dust creates an excellent foundation that compacts tightly. Many contractors prefer this material because it handles heavy loads well and provides long-lasting results. If you’re interested in learning more about foundation materials, check out our guide to the best driveway base material.

Decomposed granite sits in the middle range at $25-$50 per ton. While more expensive than recycled options, it offers a natural appearance that many homeowners love. It’s particularly good for areas where you want a more decorative look without breaking the budget.

Pea gravel rounds out the common options at $30-$55 per ton. These small, rounded stones create an attractive surface that’s easy to walk on, though they can shift under heavy vehicle use.

Total driveway costs by project size

Understanding material costs is just one piece of the puzzle. Your total project cost depends heavily on the size of your driveway and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring professionals.

For a single-car driveway (roughly 200-300 square feet), expect to spend $250-$900 on materials. Add labor costs of $20-$70 per hour, and your total project typically ranges from $600-$1,500.

A double-car driveway (400-600 square feet) requires more material and labor. Material costs jump to $500-$1,800, with total project costs ranging from $1,200-$3,000 when you include professional installation.

Larger rural driveways (1,000+ square feet) can cost $1,000-$5,000 or more depending on length and width. These projects often require more site preparation, which adds to both material and labor expenses. For a detailed breakdown of costs for longer driveways, see our article on how much a 100-foot gravel driveway costs.

Cost-saving tip: Delivery fees can equal or exceed your gravel costs for small orders. If you’re ordering less than 5-10 tons, consider picking up materials yourself or coordinating with neighbors to split delivery costs.

How gravel compares to other driveway materials

Gravel driveways offer significant upfront savings compared to other popular driveway materials. While asphalt costs $7-$13 per square foot installed and concrete runs $8-$18 per square foot, gravel typically costs just $1-$4 per square foot.

The trade-off comes in maintenance requirements. Gravel driveways need periodic raking and occasional material additions to maintain their appearance and function. However, these maintenance costs are typically much lower than major repairs needed for asphalt or concrete.

Factors that affect your final price

Several variables can significantly impact your total driveway cost beyond just material selection. Site preparation often adds $1-$2 per square foot if you need grading, excavation, or drainage work.

Delivery distance matters more than you might expect. Most suppliers charge $5-$15 per mile for delivery, and some have minimum order requirements that could force you to buy more material than needed.

Local labor rates vary widely across different regions. Rural areas might see rates as low as $20-$30 per hour, while urban markets can reach $50-$70 per hour for experienced contractors.

Thickness requirements also affect costs. Most driveways need 2-4 inches of gravel, but areas with heavy traffic or poor soil conditions might require deeper installation, increasing both material and labor needs. Understanding the best size gravel for your driveway can help you determine the right depth and specifications for your project.

The timing of your project can influence pricing too. Spring and fall are peak seasons for driveway work, which can drive up both material and labor costs compared to winter projects.

Choosing the right gravel for your driveway doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with recycled asphalt if budget is your primary concern, or consider crusher run if you want a balance of affordability and long-term performance. Remember that the cheapest material isn’t always the best value when you factor in maintenance and longevity. For a comprehensive overview of all your options, explore our guide to different kinds of driveway gravel and learn about various types of stone for driveways. Take time to get quotes from local suppliers and factor in delivery costs to make the most informed decision for your specific situation.

FAQ