Buyers typically pay for clean fill dirt to level, backfill, or raise ground elevations. The cost is driven by quantity, delivery distance, material quality, and access to the project site. This guide covers typical price ranges for clean fill dirt in the United States, including per-cubic-yard and per-ton options, so readers can estimate a budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material price (clean fill dirt) | $8 | $16 | $28 | Per cubic yard delivered, varies by region |
| Delivery surcharge | $0 | $4 | $12 | Distance-based, often per mile |
| Load size and minimums | $25 | $60 | $170 | Small jobs may have base fees |
| Labor for spreading | $1.50 | $3.50 | $7 | Per cubic yard or per hour |
| Site prep and access | $0 | $1.50 | $4 | Excavation, compaction, or trenching needs |
| Permits or disposal fees | $0 | $0.50 | $4 | Local rules may apply |
What Buyers Usually Pay For Clean Fill Dirt
Typical total prices range from $250 to $2,000 for small to mid-size projects, with larger lot grading projects exceeding $5,000 depending on quantity and access. Assumptions: residential lot, standard soil, standard driveway access, 150-600 linear feet of haul distance.
Major Cost Components in Dirt Fill Quotes
Most quotes break out material, delivery, labor, and site prep. A standard breakdown is Material, Delivery/Distance, Labor for spreading, and Optional Permits or Disposal. Assumptions: 100-400 cubic yards, single delivery, standard access.
| Component | Low | Average | High | What affects it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $8/yd³ | $16/yd³ | $28/yd³ | Quality and moisture content |
| Delivery/Distance | $0 | $4/yd³ | $12/yd³ | Haul time, fuel, access |
| Labor (spread and leveling) | $1.50/yd³ | $3.50/yd³ | $7/yd³ | Crew size, time, compaction needs |
| Permits/Disposal | $0 | $0.50/yd³ | $4/yd³ | Local rules, dump fees |
| Equipment | $0 | $2/yd³ | $6/yd³ | Bulldozer, skid steer, compactor use |
| Delivery/Disposal logistics | $0 | $0.50/yd³ | $3/yd³ | On-site staging, loading fees |
How Location and Region Change Dirt Prices
Prices vary by region due to material availability and freight costs. Western markets often report higher delivery charges, while rural areas may incur longer hauls but lower material prices. Assumptions: midwestern pricing baseline with typical 5-12 mile delivery radius.
Unit Costs: Per Cubic Yard versus Per Ton Comparisons
Most projects use per-cubic-yard pricing, but some suppliers quote per ton for compacted fill. Expect $16-$28 per yd³ as typical clean fill, or about $28-$40 per ton depending on compaction and moisture. Assumptions: standard soil density around 1.35 tons/yd³.
Project Scope and Dirt Type Impact on Price
Project scope and dirt type strongly shape totals. A small driveway lift uses less volume and may incur base delivery, while grading an entire yard multiplies both material and labor costs. Assumptions: 200-600 yd³ for a residential yard regrade with level fill.
Access and Spoils Handling as Price Drivers
Site access and spoil removal can add significant costs. Narrow driveways, heavy equipment needs, or on-site staging increase both delivery and labor time. Assumptions: level access, no on-site stockpile restrictions.
Timing and Seasonal Demand Effects on Dirt Pricing
Prices fluctuate with seasonality and demand. Dry season windows may lower moisture issues, but heavy construction cycles in spring and early summer raise rate cards. Assumptions: typical deployment during moderate weather months.
Ways to Lower Clean Fill Dirt Costs Without Compromising Outcomes
Cost-conscious moves include precise scope, batching deliveries, and choosing standard-density fill. Consolidate lifts, request quotes on identical specs, and avoid premium fill additives. Assumptions: homeowners seeking basic leveling with standard soil.
Cost-Estimator Snapshot: Quick Quote Scenarios
Scenario A: 100 yd³ of clean fill with 10 miles of delivery yields around $1,600-$2,400 total.
Scenario B: 250 yd³ with helper labor and compaction runs about $5,000-$7,500 including labor.
Regional Pricing Tables and Quick Comparisons
| Region | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast urban | $10/yd³ | $18/yd³ | $32/yd³ | Higher delivery and permits |
| Midwest suburban | $8/yd³ | $16/yd³ | $28/yd³ | Balanced transport |
| West rural | $7/yd³ | $15/yd³ | $26/yd³ | Variable access |
Summary: Clean fill dirt pricing typically spans $8-$28 per yd³, with delivery and labor adding to the total. Savings emerge from batching deliveries, tightening scope, and choosing standard-density fill. Assumptions: standard residential projects, normal access, no special additives.