Buyers typically pay for fill dirt by the cubic yard, with total project costs driven by dirt type, delivery distance, and any required compaction or site preparation. The price range reflects material quality, moisture content, and regional delivery variability. This guide provides practical cost estimates in USD per yard and per project to help budget decisions.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fill Dirt (per cubic yard) | $10 | $20 | $35 | Including delivery to site (short distances) |
| Delivery Fee (flat or distance) | $50 | $150 | $300 | Depends on distance and access |
| Soil Compaction (optional) | $0 | $0-$1.50 | $2 | For improved stability |
| Site Prep & Dump Fees | $0 | $30 | $120 | Permits or disposal may apply |
| Tax & Permits | $0 | $5 | $25 | Varies by locality |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for fill dirt is $10-$35 per cubic yard, with delivery typically adding $50-$300 depending on distance and access. For a small project (e.g., 5–10 yards), expect total costs around $150-$500, while larger jobs (50–100 yards) can range $1,000-$4,000 including delivery, compaction, and disposal. Prices assume standard “unspecified” fill dirt and standard equipment use.
Cost Breakdown
Materials dominate the expense, typically $10-$35 per yard. Local supply quality, moisture, and whether the dirt is screened or unscreened affect price.
Labor & Installation Time is often a smaller share unless site access is poor. Loading, hauling, and spreading may add $1-$3 per yard for crew costs if billed by the hour, or be included in the delivery fee.
Delivery/Disposal varies widely. Short-distance delivery may be $50-$150 per trip; longer hauls can push this to $150-$300 or more. Some sites require dirt to be unloaded at a staging area, incurring extra handling fees.
Permits & Taxes are usually minimal but can apply in certain jurisdictions, adding $5-$25 per project. Always confirm local rules before purchase.
What Drives Price
Soil type and quality determine base per-yard cost; screened fill or topsoil blends cost more than unscreened fill.
Delivery distance has a linear effect on cost; longer trips increase fuel and time, often reflected in a higher delivery fee.
Access and site preparation requirements, such as narrow driveways or steep slopes, can raise both delivery and labor costs due to equipment needs.
Budget Tips
Get multiple quotes from local suppliers to compare dirt price, delivery, and any disposal charges.
Choose appropriate dirt type—unscreened fill may be cheaper than screened or structural fill, if acceptable for the project.
Order in bulk when possible to reduce per-yard delivery fees and encourage volume discounts.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to trucking costs and supply. In the Northeast, expect higher delivery fees and moisture-related price swings, averaging $12-$38 per yard. The Southwest tends to offer cheaper base dirt but may add moisture-related surcharges during wet seasons, about $12-$32 per yard. The Midwest often shows stable pricing around $14-$28 per yard with moderate delivery fees.
Labor, Hours & Rates
For typical small projects, labor is modest: loading and spreading 5–15 yards may take 2–6 hours on a standard crew, at roughly $35-$75 per hour per crew. If contractors quote “per yard” labor, expect $1-$3 per yard for spreading, assuming straightforward access. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”>
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic — 8 yards of unscreened fill, 1-mile delivery, no compaction. Specs: standard dump, no permits. Hours: 2. Materials: $10/yd. Delivery: $60. Total: $140–$210.
Mid-Range — 25 yards, screened fill, 2 miles, light compaction. Specs: staging area, minimal disposal. Materials: $22/yd. Delivery: $120. Compaction: $1.50/yd. Total: $1,200–$1,600.
Premium — 60 yards, structural fill blend, 8 miles, heavy compaction, permits. Specs: disposal on-site, trailer access. Materials: $30/yd. Delivery: $250. Labor: $2.50/yd. Permits/Taxes: $25. Total: $2,700–$3,800.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
