Topsoil Calculator
This topsoil calculator figures out how much topsoil you need for a new lawn, raised bed, or grading project. Enter your area and depth to get results in cubic yards, tons, and estimated cost.
- Volume
- —
- Weight
- —
| Material | Density (lb/ft³) | Tons per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| Topsoil | 76 | 1.03 |
| Compost | 44 | 0.59 |
| Fill Dirt | 80 | 1.08 |
| Depth | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 2 in | 162 sq ft |
| 4 in | 81 sq ft |
| 6 in | 54 sq ft |
| 12 in | 27 sq ft |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much topsoil do I need for a new lawn?
New lawns typically need 4-6 inches of topsoil spread over the area before seeding or sodding. A 1,000 sq ft lawn at 6 inches deep needs about 18.5 cubic yards of topsoil.
How many cubic yards of topsoil in a ton?
A cubic yard of topsoil weighs about 1 ton, based on a typical density of 76 lb/ft³, so the two units are roughly interchangeable for topsoil specifically. Other materials like fill dirt or compost have different densities and won't convert the same way.
What's the difference between topsoil and fill dirt?
Topsoil is nutrient-rich soil intended for growing plants and grass, while fill dirt is a denser mix of subsoil, sand, and rock used to raise or level grade. Fill dirt is cheaper and used underneath topsoil, not as a growing medium on its own.
How deep should topsoil be for a garden bed?
Raised garden beds generally need 8-12 inches of topsoil for healthy root growth, while beds for shallow-rooted plants like lettuce can get by with 6 inches. Lawns need much less, typically 4-6 inches worked into the existing soil.
How much does a cubic yard of topsoil cost?
Topsoil pricing varies by region and quality, but bulk delivery is almost always cheaper per cubic yard than bagged topsoil from a home improvement store. Use the calculator above with your local price per cubic yard to estimate total cost.