For buyers evaluating a fill dirt project, the price per yard is driven by material type, delivery distance, and staging needs. This article covers the fill dirt price per yard in practical terms, with clear low-average-high ranges and region-specific factors to help plan a budget.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard material, normal access, and typical residential job sizes.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fill dirt material price per cubic yard | $12 | $20 | $35 | Includes standard fill soil; higher for screened or premium material |
| Delivery/transport per yard | $6 | $14 | $28 | Depends on distance and load size |
| Dumping or site-prep fees per yard | $0 | $5 | $15 | Includes compaction or grading on-site |
| Labor to distribute soil (per hour) | $25 | $40 | $75 | Average crew of 2-3 workers |
Material Price Per Yard by Dirt Type and Quality
Material quality directly affects cost per yard. Standard fill dirt typically ranges from $12 to $20 per yard, while screened or amended fills can push toward $25–$35 per yard. For projects requiring rockier or clay-heavy soils, expect higher per-yard pricing and additional prep work to ensure compaction and drainage. Regions with high fuel and labor costs will see the upper end of these ranges more often.
| Soil Type | Price Per Yard (Low) | Price Per Yard (Average) | Price Per Yard (High) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard fill dirt | $12 | $20 | $25 | General-purpose fill for grading and leveling |
| Screened/topsoil blend | $18 | $28 | $40 | Improved drainage and fertility |
| Clay-heavy fill | $15 | $22 | $35 | Higher compaction requirements |
| Small-screened gravel mix | $22 | $32 | $45 | Drainage-oriented projects |
Delivery Distance and Site Access: How Proximity Shifts Price
Delivery fees scale with distance and load size. Within 10 miles, expect lower transport costs; beyond 20 miles, per-yard prices can rise by several dollars due to fuel and truck wear. Access improveability, such as gated lots or narrow driveways, can reduce or increase fees depending on maneuvering requirements. Plan for a realistic delivery window and potential surcharge for restricted access.
Cost Breakdown: What a Typical Quote Looks Like
Most quotes break out material, delivery, dumping or compaction, and labor. A standard residential project might show:
- Material: 14–20 yards of standard fill dirt at $14–$22 per yard
- Delivery: 10–15 miles at $8–$16 per yard
- Site prep/dump/compaction: $3–$10 per yard
- Labor to spread and level: 2 workers for 3–6 hours at $40–$60 per hour
The total will typically range from roughly $1,500 to $6,000 depending on size, distance, and soil type.
Regional Variations: Coastal Versus Inland Pricing Dynamics
Coastal markets often see higher per-yard material and delivery costs due to logistics, insurance, and regional demand. Inland markets may offer lower material prices but can incur higher trucking fees if distances to quarries are long. A practical range to budget for a mid-sized project in coastal regions is $18–$38 per yard for material plus delivery, while inland projects may sit closer to $15–$28 per yard for material, with similar delivery ranges.
Labor, Equipment, and Time Considerations
Labor rates typically fall in the $40–$60 per hour range per crew member in many U.S. markets, with a two-person crew common for spreading and finishing. Equipment needs (loaders, skid steers, compactors) and site constraints influence time and total cost. For a 20-yard job, expect 6–12 hours of labor including setup and finishing, depending on access and compaction requirements.
How Seasonality Affects Fill Dirt Pricing
Prices often rise in spring and early summer when demand for grading and landscaping increases and weather affects delivery logistics. Winter pricing can be lower, but access issues from frozen ground or mud can add delay costs. Budget for a 5–15% seasonal swing, with regional variation.
Three Practical Ways to Cut the Price Per Yard
Scope control—limit the amount of dirt moved and avoid unnecessary grading passes. Material choice—opt for standard fill rather than premium blends unless drainage or fertility is essential. Delivery timing—schedule during off-peak periods and line up multiple loads to reduce mobilization fees.
Example Scenarios With Per-Yard and Total Estimates
Scenario A: Small residential pad, 10 yards of standard fill, 8 miles delivery
- Material: $12–$20/yd
- Delivery: $6–$12/yd
- Labor: 4 hours at $50/hr total
- Estimated total: $1,200–$2,100
Scenario B: Driveway expansion, 25 yards, screened blend, 15 miles
- Material: $22–$32/yd
- Delivery: $10–$18/yd
- Dump/Prep: $3–$8/yd
- Labor: 6–9 hours at $55/hr
- Estimated total: $4,500–$8,200
Scenario C: Large lot grading, 50 yards, standard fill, 25 miles
- Material: $15–$22/yd
- Delivery: $8–$16/yd
- Site prep/compaction: $4–$9/yd
- Labor: 12–18 hours at $50/hr
- Estimated total: $9,000–$16,500
Regional Summary Table: Quick Budget Check
| Region | Material | Delivery | Labor | Typical Project Total Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midwest | $12–$22/yd | $6–$14/yd | $40–$60/hr | $1,000–$8,000 |
| West Coast | $16–$35/yd | $8–$28/yd | $40–$75/hr | $2,000–$12,000 |
| South | $14–$28/yd | $6–$18/yd | $35–$65/hr | $1,200–$9,500 |
| Northeast | $16–$30/yd | $6–$20/yd | $40–$70/hr | $1,500–$10,000 |