Are you looking to enhance your landscape with the timeless beauty of river rock? How Much Does A Yard Of River Rock Cost? The cost of river rock typically ranges from $45 to $140 per cubic yard, but various factors influence the final price. At rockscapes.net, we help you navigate these costs and discover the perfect river rock for your dream landscape, providing inspiration, information, and expert advice.
1. Understanding River Rock Costs in 2025
River rock is a popular choice for landscaping due to its natural appeal and versatility. The price can vary depending on several factors.
| Typical Price Range | |
|---|---|
| Price per ton | $60 – $170 |
| Price per cubic yard | $45 – $140 |
| Low-end project cost | $145 |
| High-end project cost | $2,375 |
Generally, you can expect to pay between $45 and $140 per cubic yard for river rock. Landscaping projects using river rock can range from $145 to $2,375, depending on the size and complexity, covering 250 to 800 square feet with 3 to 6 cubic yards of rocks, including materials and installation.
To minimize expenses, consider using less expensive alternatives such as pea gravel or decomposed granite, or opt for unpolished river rocks and handle the installation yourself. Homeowners with higher costs usually have larger areas to cover or require professional delivery and installation. Those seeking a more refined appearance may choose Mexican beach pebbles, which are among the pricier options.
2. Estimating River Rock Costs by Project Size
The size of your project significantly impacts the amount of river rock needed and the overall cost. Larger gardens or water features will require more stones, increasing both material and installation expenses. For a standard-sized project, expect to use 3 to 6 cubic yards of river rock to cover 250 to 800 square feet.
Here’s an estimated cost breakdown per ton and cubic yard for different project sizes:
| River Rocks | Cost per Ton | Cost per Cubic Yard |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ton/yard | $60 – $170 | $45 – $140 |
| 2 tons/yards | $120 – $340 | $90 – $280 |
| 3 tons/yards | $180 – $510 | $135 – $420 |
| 4 tons/yards | $240 – $680 | $180 – $560 |
2.1. Calculating River Rock Quantities: A Step-by-Step Guide
Accurately calculating the amount of river rock needed is essential for budgeting. Follow these steps to determine the required quantity:
- Measure: Determine the length and width of the area in feet.
- Determine Depth: Decide on the desired rock depth (typically 2 to 3 inches).
- Convert Depth: Convert inches to feet by dividing by 12.
- Calculate Volume: Multiply the length, width, and depth to get the volume in cubic feet.
- Convert to Cubic Yards: Divide the volume in cubic feet by 27 to get the volume in cubic yards.
- Convert to Tons: Multiply the cubic yards by 1.4 to get the tonnage.
Example:
Suppose you want to cover an area 10 feet long by 10 feet wide with a depth of 3 inches.
- 3 inches ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
- 10 feet x 10 feet x 0.25 feet = 25 cubic feet
- 25 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 0.93 cubic yards
- 0.93 cubic yards x 1.4 = 1.3 tons
Therefore, you would need approximately 1.3 tons of river rock. It’s prudent to add an extra 10% to account for potential losses during transportation or installation.
3. Factors Influencing River Rock Costs
Several factors can affect the final cost of your river rock project.
3.1. Installation Costs
Labor costs are a significant factor, especially if you hire a professional. Expect to pay an average of $40 to $90 per hour for installation work. The duration of the job depends on the area’s size and the complexity of the design. Replacing existing concrete driveways or sidewalks with river rock can also increase labor costs due to the removal process.
3.2. Delivery Costs
Many companies include delivery costs in the total installation price, but these can vary based on location, the quantity of rocks, and the type of rock.
| Cost | |
|---|---|
| Large Decorative Rocks | $200 – $600 |
| Per Ton | $5 – $10 |
| Per Hour | $65 – $100 |
For large rocks like boulders, delivery charges range from $200 to $600. Some charge $5 to $10 per ton or $65 to $100 per hour. Always clarify delivery costs with your supplier or contractor to avoid surprises.
3.3. River Rock Types and Varieties
Different types of river rock come with varying price tags, with rarer colors often being the most expensive. Here are some common types and their average costs per ton:
| River Rock Type | Average Cost Range (per ton) |
|---|---|
| Arizona | $140 – $205 |
| Cherokee | $130 – $175 |
| Colorado | $70 – $285 |
| Delaware | $95 – $130 |
| Flat River Rock | $190 – $500 |
| Rainbow | $90 – $190 |
| Salt and Pepper | $175 – $280 |
| Tennessee | $110 – $130 |
| White River Rock | $115 – $170 |
At rockscapes.net, we offer a diverse selection of river rock types to match your aesthetic preferences and budget.
3.4. Rock Size Considerations
Larger rocks are more challenging to transport and install, increasing costs. While the most common size is 1 to 3 inches, larger landscaping rocks like stone boulders can cost up to $600 per ton. The larger the rocks, the fewer you’ll receive per ton due to their weight and density.
4. Exploring Related Landscaping Services
River rocks are versatile and can be incorporated into various landscaping projects. Consider these related services to enhance your outdoor space.
4.1. Alternative Rock Types
There are many other types of rocks you can use for landscaping, each offering unique shapes, sizes, and colors.
| Rock Type | Average Cost Range (per ton) |
|---|---|
| Boulders | $100 – $385 |
| Bull Rock | $70 – $110 |
| Crushed Granite | $50 – $100 |
| Crushed Stone | $30 – $55 |
| Decomposed Granite | $35 – $70 |
| Lava Rock | $115 – $215 |
| Mexican Beach Pebbles | $690 – $865 |
| Pea Gravel | $10 – $60 |
| Rip Rap | $40 – $80 |
4.2. Retaining Walls
Retaining walls prevent soil erosion and add visual interest to your yard. Constructed from stacked stone, natural stones, or stone veneers, these walls can cost between $15 and $95 per square foot, depending on the stone type.
4.3. Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is a low-water, low-maintenance landscaping approach ideal for water-limited areas. Landscaping rocks are essential hardscaping materials in xeriscaping projects. The average cost for xeriscaping ranges around $17,000, with most homeowners spending between $10,000 and $19,000. According to research from Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, in July 2025, xeriscaping provides a sustainable landscaping solution for arid climates.
4.4. Water Features and Ponds
Adding water features such as ponds and waterfalls can significantly enhance your yard’s aesthetic appeal. River rocks complement these features by adding texture and natural beauty. Pond installation costs typically range from $1,900 to $6,500.
4.5. Fire Pits
Fire pits provide warmth and ambiance during colder months. Options range from portable aluminum pits to built-in structures made of natural stone or concrete. Stone fire pits can cost between $350 and $3,000, with the national average cost around $830.
4.6. Rock Removal Services
If you decide to remove existing rocks, professional services are available. Rock removal typically costs $85 to $125 per hour, with additional costs for machinery. Boulder removal is often charged by size, ranging from $50 to $200 per cubic yard.
5. Professional vs. DIY River Rock Installation
River rock installation is generally DIY-friendly due to its low cost and ease of handling. However, for large projects involving many tons of rocks or heavy boulders, hiring a professional is advisable for safety reasons.
Installing river rocks in a 100-square-foot area can cost between $290 and $455 if you lack the necessary tools and materials. These materials are readily available at home improvement centers like Lowe’s or Home Depot.
| DIY Equipment and Materials | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| River Rock | $90 – $255 (1.5 tons) |
| Tape Measure | $15 |
| Wheelbarrow | $60 |
| Weed-Blocking Fabric | $24 ($0.24 per square foot) |
| Shovel | $20 |
| Rake | $25 |
| Rubber Edging | $56 ($1.40 per linear foot) |
| Total | $290 – $455 |
If you already own most of the landscaping supplies, the costs can drop to around $170, primarily for weed-blocking fabric and rubber edging. For small projects, hiring a professional might be more convenient, especially if you’re starting from scratch.
6. Impact of Location on River Rock Costs
River rock costs can fluctuate based on your location. Suppliers may charge higher prices for deliveries to rural areas or locations far from their business due to shipping costs and regulations. Conversely, metropolitan areas often have higher service costs than rural areas. Ensure you source your river rocks from the nearest supplier to minimize expenses.
At rockscapes.net, we can help you find local suppliers and compare prices to get the best deal.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
7.1. What is the cheapest rock for landscaping?
Pea gravel is the cheapest rock for landscaping. It can cost as little as $10 per ton, followed by decomposed and crushed granite.
7.2. What size of river rock is best for landscaping?
River rocks with 1 to 2 inches in size are ideal for landscaping. The type of river rock, such as Arizona, Cherokee, or Salt and Pepper, depends on your taste.
7.3. How deep should I lay river rocks?
Laying river rocks to a depth of 2 to 3 inches is ideal for most landscaping projects.
7.4. Can river rocks help with drainage in my yard?
Yes, river rocks can improve drainage. They create pathways for water to flow, preventing water from pooling and causing damage. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), proper drainage is essential for maintaining healthy landscapes and preventing soil erosion.
7.5. Are river rocks suitable for all types of climates?
River rocks are suitable for most climates, including dry and wet. In drier climates like Arizona, they help retain moisture in the soil and reduce evaporation. In wetter climates, they assist with drainage and prevent waterlogging.
7.6. How do I clean and maintain river rocks in my landscape?
Cleaning river rocks involves removing debris, leaves, and algae. You can use a garden hose to rinse the rocks or a pressure washer for more thorough cleaning. Regularly removing debris will help maintain their appearance.
7.7. What are the benefits of using river rocks in landscaping?
Using river rocks in landscaping provides aesthetic appeal, erosion control, improved drainage, and reduced weed growth. They are also low-maintenance and can add a natural, rustic look to your yard.
7.8. Can I use river rocks in a vegetable garden?
Yes, river rocks can be used in vegetable gardens as mulch or to create pathways. They help retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weed growth. However, avoid using them directly around acid-loving plants, as river rocks can slightly increase soil pH.
7.9. How do river rock costs compare to other landscaping materials?
River rock is generally more affordable than materials like pavers or concrete but can be more expensive than mulch or gravel, but river rock lasts longer. According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, choosing the right material depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and functional needs.
7.10. Where can I purchase river rocks near me?
River rocks can be purchased at local landscaping suppliers, home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, and directly from quarries. Rockscapes.net can also help you find local suppliers. Address: 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States. Phone: +1 (480) 965-9011. Website: rockscapes.net.
8. Final Thoughts: Enhancing Your Landscape with River Rock
The cost of a river rock project can vary, but it remains an affordable way to enhance your landscape. Homeowners can pay as little as $60 for a ton of river rocks. The beauty and versatility of river rock make it a popular choice for many landscaping projects. For expert advice and a wide selection of river rock options, visit rockscapes.net and transform your outdoor space today.
