Skip to content
Trowelly

Topsoil Calculator

Enter the area and depth to fill to see how much topsoil, garden soil or compost to order, with extra for settling.

Units
ft
ft
in

New lawns 4–6 in; raised beds 8–12 in; top-dressing ¼–½ in.

%
Add prices for a cost estimate (optional)
per yd³
per bag

Results

Cubic yards
1.42 yd³
Cubic feet
38.3 ft³
Cubic meters
1.09 m³
Approximate weight
1.56 tons
Approximate weight (metric)
1.42 t
0.75 ft³ bags
52 bags
Area covered
100 ft²
  • Weight uses a typical topsoil density of about 1.1 tons per cubic yard; moisture and stone size change this, so confirm with your supplier.
  • Includes 15% extra.
  • Above roughly 1 yd³, bulk delivery is usually cheaper than bags.

Where to buy

Quantities from your result, with links to search each store.

Your ZIP code stays on this device. We use it to show stores and suppliers in your area.

Links search each store’s website. Check prices and stock before you go.

How to use the topsoil calculator

  1. Choose a Shape and enter the dimensions of your lawn, bed or fill area.
  2. Enter the Depth: 4–6 in for new lawns, 8–12 in for raised beds, ¼–½ in for top-dressing.
  3. Pick the Material: topsoil, garden soil mix or compost.
  4. Keep the 15% Extra for settling or adjust it, and choose a Bag size if buying bags.
  5. Optionally add a bulk price per cubic yard or a price per bag.

How it works

Loose soil settles once it is raked, watered and walked on, so the calculator adds 15% by default. Weight estimates use about 2,200 lb per cubic yard (1.1 tons) for topsoil, 2,000 lb for garden soil mix and 1,200 lb for compost. Wet soil is heavier.

Soil is usually sold in bulk by the cubic yard, or in bags of 0.75, 1 or 1.5 ft³.

Volume (ft³) = area (ft²) × depth (in) ÷ 12 × (1 + extra %)

Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27

Tons = cubic yards × density (lb/yd³) ÷ 2,000

Bags = cubic feet ÷ bag size (ft³), rounded up

Worked example

With the default inputs, a 10 × 10 ft area filled 4 in deep is 33.3 ft³. With 15% extra for settling that becomes 38.3 ft³, or 1.42 cubic yards.

That is roughly 1.56 tons of topsoil, or 52 bags of 0.75 ft³.

Tips before you buy

  • Loosen the existing soil before spreading new topsoil so the layers blend and drain well.
  • Fill raised beds with a garden soil mix or a topsoil and compost blend rather than plain topsoil.
  • Ask the supplier whether their soil is screened. Screened topsoil spreads more evenly for lawns.
  • A cubic yard of moist topsoil can weigh more than a ton, which may exceed what a pickup truck can safely carry. Check your vehicle’s payload.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh?

Roughly 1.1 tons (2,200 lb) when fairly dry, which is what the calculator uses. Wet soil can weigh considerably more.

How much topsoil do I need for a new lawn?

Plan on 4–6 in. For 1,000 ft² at 4 in that is 12.35 cubic yards, or about 14.2 yards with 15% extra for settling.

How much soil do I need for a raised bed?

Multiply length × width × depth. A 4 × 8 ft bed 12 in deep holds 32 ft³, about 1.19 cubic yards, before any allowance for settling.

How many bags of topsoil are in a cubic yard?

A cubic yard is 27 ft³: 36 bags of 0.75 ft³, 27 bags of 1 ft³ or 18 bags of 1.5 ft³.

Why add extra for settling?

Delivered soil is loose and compacts after watering and foot traffic. The default 15% helps you end up at the finished depth you want.

Results are estimates based on the measurements you enter and typical material properties. Products vary, so check quantities with your supplier and follow product labels and your local building codes. Read the full disclaimer. Last reviewed October 9, 2026.