Topsoil calculator
How much topsoil do you need?
Enter the length, width and depth of your bed or fill area to get the volume in cubic yards, a bagged alternative, and an estimated cost either way.
Enter your area
National average is $30–$45 per cubic yard, bulk delivered — edit it to match your local supplier.
Results
- Volume needed
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- Recommended order
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- Estimated cost
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Bagged alternative
- 0.75 cu ft bags—
Bag count includes your waste % and rounds up to whole bags.
Estimates only — confirm final quantities with your garden center or landscape supplier before ordering.
How it's calculated
Area × depth, converted to yards.
Like mulch and gravel, topsoil volume comes from area × depth. We convert to cubic feet, then cubic yards, add your waste percentage for settling, and compare against bagged quantities at the same volume so you can see which is more practical for your fill size.
FAQ
Common questions
How deep should topsoil be for a new bed or lawn?
6 inches is a common depth for a new garden bed or raised bed over existing ground. Leveling or filling low spots in an existing lawn usually needs less — often just 1–2 inches on top of aeration.
What's the difference between topsoil and garden soil or compost?
Topsoil is the base fill layer — mineral soil with some organic content. Garden soil and compost are usually blended in on top for planting beds. Use this calculator for the topsoil fill volume, then add compost separately if your project calls for it.
Should I buy topsoil in bulk or bags?
Bagged topsoil (about 0.75 cu ft per bag) is fine for small beds or containers. Bulk delivery is cheaper per cubic yard once you're filling more than a couple hundred square feet.
Does topsoil settle after it's spread?
Yes — expect some settling as it compacts, especially after the first rain or watering. Ordering slightly more than the bare minimum (the waste % in the calculator) accounts for this.