Gravel is the most affordable driveway surface, but a driveway that's too shallow rutting and potholes within a season. The key is enough depth, built up in the right layers.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A durable gravel driveway is typically 4 to 6 inches deep, and the best ones are built in two or three layers rather than one. A larger crushed stone forms the base for drainage and stability, topped with a finer, more compactable gravel for the driving surface.
| Layer | Material | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Large crushed stone (2–3 in) | 4 inches |
| Middle (optional) | Medium crushed stone | 2–3 inches |
| Top | Fine gravel / crushed stone | 2 inches |
How much gravel by area
Gravel is sold by the cubic yard or by the ton. To find the volume, multiply the driveway's length by its width by the depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Our gravel calculator does this and also converts to tons, since many suppliers price by weight.
What does a gravel driveway cost?
Gravel itself is inexpensive per cubic yard, which is why gravel driveways cost a fraction of concrete or asphalt. The main variables are how much material you need (area × depth) and delivery. Because material scales directly with volume, an accurate estimate is the best way to budget — start with the gravel calculator and add your local delivery rate.
Tips for a driveway that lasts
Compact each layer before adding the next, crown the surface slightly so water runs off the sides, and consider a geotextile fabric under the base to stop the gravel from sinking into soft soil. Plan to top up the surface gravel every few years as it settles and scatters.
Try the free calculator
Skip the manual math — get instant numbers for your own project:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
Multiply the driveway area by the depth (4 to 6 inches total). One cubic yard covers about 100 square feet at 3 inches deep; a gravel calculator gives the exact cubic yards and tons.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A gravel driveway should be 4 to 6 inches deep, ideally built in layers with larger crushed stone as a base and finer gravel on top for the driving surface.
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
One cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 1.4 tons, though it varies with stone type and moisture. A gravel calculator converts between cubic yards and tons.
Is a gravel driveway cheaper than concrete?
Yes — gravel is far cheaper per square foot than concrete or asphalt, though it needs occasional topping up and grading to stay smooth.