Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways are one of the most cost-effective driveway options, typically costing $1-$3 per square foot for materials. They require a layered approach with 3 types of gravel totaling 8-12 inches deep for proper stability and drainage.
Material Cost
$15 – $45/ton
Typical Depth
2" – 6"
Recommended Types
8 gravel types
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Recommended Materials
Use #3 or #4 crushed stone for the base layer. Angular edges interlock for maximum stability under vehicle traffic.
#57 stone fills gaps in the base layer and provides a transition to the finer top surface.
Provides a smooth driving surface. Small enough to be comfortable but angular enough to stay put.
Popular alternative top layer in the Midwest and South. Compacts into a firm, almost concrete-like surface.
Best single-layer driveway option. Stone + fines blend self-compacts into a firm surface without needing multiple layers.
Budget-friendly option for rural and long driveways. Unprocessed pit-run material at a fraction of the cost of crusher run.
Blend of #57 stone and fines — excellent for resurfacing existing gravel driveways. Compacts firmly with better drainage than crusher run.
Crushed reclaimed pavement that hardens over time. The most affordable driveway surface with minimal dust.
Gravel Driveways Cost Breakdown
| Material | Per Ton | Per Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed Stone | $20 – $40 | $25 – $55 |
| #57 Gravel | $20 – $35 | $25 – $45 |
| #8 Gravel | $22 – $40 | $28 – $50 |
| Crushed Limestone | $20 – $45 | $25 – $50 |
| Crusher Run | $20 – $35 | $25 – $45 |
| Bank Run Gravel | $15 – $30 | $20 – $40 |
| #411 Gravel | $20 – $40 | $25 – $55 |
| Recycled Asphalt | $15 – $30 | $20 – $45 |
Prices vary by region, availability, and order size.
A gravel driveway is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for residential and rural properties. Gravel driveways offer excellent drainage, are easy to install, and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
The best gravel for driveways is typically a layered approach: a base layer of larger crushed stone (#3 or #4) for stability, a middle layer of #57 stone, and a top layer of smaller gravel like #8 or crushed limestone for a smooth driving surface.
Expect to use about 1.5 tons of gravel per 100 square feet at a standard 4-inch depth. Most driveways are 10-12 feet wide and require three layers totaling 8-12 inches deep. Proper grading and a crown in the center help with water drainage.
Maintenance includes occasional raking to redistribute gravel, filling ruts, and adding a fresh top layer every 1-2 years. Installing edging along the sides helps prevent gravel migration.
Published February 11, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Gravel for Driveway?
A well-built gravel driveway uses three layers of progressively smaller stone:
Base Layer (4 inches)
Use #3 stone (1-2 inches) or #4 stone (1.5-3 inches). These large angular stones create a stable foundation and won't sink into soft soil. A geotextile fabric under this layer prevents the stone from migrating into the subgrade.
Middle Layer (4 inches)
#57 stone (3/4 to 1 inch) is the standard choice. It fills the gaps in the base layer, adds stability, and provides a transition to the finer top layer.
Top Layer (2-3 inches)
#8 gravel (3/8 to 1/2 inch) or crushed limestone creates a smooth driving surface. Some homeowners prefer #411 (a blend of #57 stone and stone dust) because the dust fills voids and compacts into a very firm surface.
What to Avoid
Avoid using pea gravel or river rock for driveways — their rounded shape means they never lock together and will constantly shift under tires, creating ruts.
Gravel vs Concrete: Which Is Better?
Gravel and concrete each have clear advantages depending on your priorities, budget, and project requirements.
Where Gravel Wins
A gravel driveway costs $1-$3 per square foot installed, while concrete runs $5-$10 per square foot. Gravel can be a DIY project; concrete requires professional installation. Gravel is permeable and handles drainage naturally; concrete requires slopes and drainage planning.
Where Concrete Wins
A properly installed concrete driveway lasts 25-30 years with minimal upkeep. Gravel driveways need periodic regrading, rut filling, and top-layer replenishment. Concrete provides a smooth, clean surface year-round; gravel can be dusty in summer and difficult to plow in winter.
Cold Climate Considerations
For driveways in cold climates, concrete can crack from freeze-thaw cycles and road salt damage. Gravel handles freezing and thawing without damage but is harder to snow-plow.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose gravel when budget is a priority, the driveway is long (rural properties), drainage is a concern, or you want a rustic aesthetic. Choose concrete for short suburban driveways, wheelchair accessibility, frequent snow removal, and a modern look.
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