How Much Gravel for 500 Square Feet?
For 500 square feet at 4 inches deep — standard for paths, borders, and patios — you need 6.79 cubic yards or 9.5 tons of gravel (with 10% waste).
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Our editorial team researches and fact-checks material calculations with input from licensed contractors, landscape designers, and certified tradespeople across the US.
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Answer at a glance — 500 sq ft
| Depth | Cu ft | Cu yards | Tons (with 10% waste) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 inches | 83.3 | 3.09 | 4.8 tons |
| 3 inches | 125 | 4.63 | 7.1 tons |
| 4 inches | 166.7 | 6.17 | 9.5 tons |
| 6 inches | 250 | 9.26 | 14.3 tons |
How we calculated it
For 500 sq ft at 4 inches:
- Volume = 500 × 4 ÷ 12 = 166.7 cu ft
- Cubic yards = 166.7 ÷ 27 = 6.17 cu yd
- With 10% waste = 6.79 cu yd
- Tons = 6.79 × 1.4 = 9.5 tons
Gravel density varies by type: pea gravel ≈ 1.35 tons/cu yd, crushed stone ≈ 1.5 tons/cu yd. The 1.4 figure is a reliable average.
Compare nearby sizes
| Area | At 3" (paths) | At 4" (standard) | At 6" (driveway) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 sq ft | 3.6 tons | 4.8 tons | 7.1 tons |
| 375 sq ft | 5.3 tons | 7.1 tons | 10.7 tons |
| 500 sq ft | 7.1 tons | 9.5 tons | 14.3 tons |
| 750 sq ft | 10.7 tons | 14.3 tons | 21.4 tons |
| 1000 sq ft | 14.3 tons | 19 tons | 28.5 tons |
Depth guide by use
- 2–3 inches — decorative coverage, flower beds, tree rings
- 4 inches — paths, patios, play areas (most common)
- 6 inches — driveways (base layer), high-traffic areas
- 8–12 inches — driveway full build (base + surface combined)
Ordering tips
Gravel is sold by the ton or by the cubic yard depending on supplier. Always confirm which unit your quote uses before ordering. For 500 sq ft at 4 inches you need roughly 6.79 cu yd — if ordering by the ton, ask for 9.5 tons.
Use the Gravel Calculator to enter your exact dimensions and get a precise tonnage with price estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need for 500 square feet?
For 500 sq ft at 4 inches deep (standard for paths and borders), you need 6.79 cubic yards or 9.5 tons of gravel (includes 10% waste).
How many tons of gravel for 500 square feet?
At 4 inches: 9.5 tons. At 3 inches: 7.1 tons. At 6 inches (driveway): 14.3 tons. One cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons.
How many cubic yards of gravel for 500 square feet?
At 4 inches: 6.79 cu yd (with 10% waste). At 2 inches: 3.4 cu yd. At 6 inches: 10.19 cu yd.
What type of gravel is best for 500 sq ft?
For paths and borders, pea gravel (3/8") or decomposed granite works well. For driveways, use #57 crushed stone (3/4") for the base. For drainage, use #57 or #67 stone.
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