How Much Does River Rock Cost?

Last Updated on May 11, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

River rock delivers an attractive, naturalistic look for all sorts of landscaping projects. But what’s the actual cost of buying these decorative stones in bulk?

How Much Does River Rock Cost?

On average, expect to pay $30 to $60 per ton for basic river rocks, or $40 to $100 per cubic yard. Smaller pebble sizes under 2 inches cost less than larger rocks over 4 inches. White rock color varieties also command premium pricing. Understanding key cost factors allows budgeting correctly.

River rock prices per ton:

• 1-2″ pebbles: $30 – $45 per ton
• 3-4″ cobbles: $40 – $65 per ton
• 5-6″ boulders: $55 – $85 per ton

River rock per cubic yard:

• 1-2″ pebbles: $40 – $60 per cubic yard
• 3-4″ cobbles: $55 – $80 per cubic yard
• 5-6″ boulders: $75 – $100+ per cubic yard

White rock varieties and delivery boost costs. Quotes from multiple local suppliers give the best price range.

According to Lawn Love, the average cost for river rocks is between $60 and $170 per ton, and most homeowners pay between $365 and $1,500 for a river rock landscaping project. The national average cost is $655.

HomeGuide reports that river rock costs $45 to $130 per ton on average, depending on the type, location, and size. One ton of river rock covers 55 to 135 square feet at a depth of 2″ to 4″. They also mention that river rock costs $50 to $160 per cubic yard on average.

Angi states that buying river rock costs an average of $700 between materials and installation, with a normal range of $250 to $1,600 depending on rock size, type, and delivery fees. The cost of river rock delivery falls between $200 and $600, but some companies attach their delivery price to the cost of the stones.

Rocks and Gravel offers river rock in four sizes, all priced at $100.00 per cubic yard for self-pickup. They also sell pea stone at $100.00 per cubic yard. Himmel’s Landscape & Garden Center carries river rock in two sizes: 3/4″ and 1-3″, both priced at $250 per yard.

River Rocks in Landscaping and Gardens

Prized for its smooth, polished beauty, river rock finds frequent use for:

• Ground cover or mulch around trees, shrubs and garden beds. Holds moisture and prevents weeds.
• Drainage fill material in swales or slopes. Allows water flow.
• Walkways and garden pathways with a natural stone look without sharp edges.
• Accent sections to add visual interest to yards. Contrast colored varieties.
• Erosion control along property lines or pond/stream banks to reduce washout.

River rock delivers decorative flair, functionality, and excellent durability outside. Most homeowners need bulk quantities for large projects.

Factors That Impact Cost Per Ton of River Rock

Several considerations influence total rock pricing:

• Rock size – Smaller 1-2 inch pebbles cost less than larger 4-6 inch rocks. Easier to transport and install.
• Type and source – Locally quarried and common dark rocks are cheapest. Unique white rocks trucked longer distances cost more.
• Quantity ordered – Bulk discounts on full truckloads or tons lower per unit pricing.
• Delivery costs – Greater distance from rock yards increases per ton/yard rates.
• Bagged vs. loose bulk – Bagged rocks carry added packaging costs but allow smaller purchases.

Bulk Loose Rocks vs. Bagged Options

Bulk loose river rock:

• Cost – $30 – $100 per ton or cubic yard
• Pros – Large minimum orders often 2+ tons. Cheaper per pound.
• Cons – Requires supplier coordination for delivery/installation.

Bagged river rock:

• Cost – $3 – $15 per 50 lb. bag
• Pros – Small project suitability. Grab bags easily.
• Cons – Much more expensive per pound. Labor intensive.

For large coverage needs, bulk buying saves significantly. But bagged rocks allow small DIY projects without heavy delivery. Compare cost per pound.

Reduce River Rock Costs

Ways to secure savings:

• Order largest quantities possible. Bulk pricing drops costs per ton.
• Use darker local rock varieties. Unique imported colors get pricier.
• Install rocks yourself rather than paying for labor markup.
• Provide flexibility for off-peak weekday delivery dates.
• Check landscaping company spare inventory for surplus bulk sales.
• Negotiate discounts or waived delivery fees for 10+ ton orders.

Some effort lowers costs noticeably while still achieving desired aesthetics.

Installation Expenses

Added project costs include:

• Delivery fees – $100 – $300 for 5-15 ton orders
• Labor – $200 – $500 for an average yard depending on site access
• Equipment rental – $100 – $200 per day for compactors and tools
• Gravel or weed barrier – $100 – $300 to prep the underlying ground
• Edging – $5-$15 per foot for containment depending on material

Factor these into your total budget to avoid surprise expenses. Performing your own installation reduces costs.

The Best River Rock Size, Shape and Color

• Smaller 1-2 inch rocks suit walkways. Drain easily and comfortable underfoot.
• Larger 3-5 inch rocks work well around trees and retaining walls. Bolder statement.
• Moderately rounded shapes prove comfortable for play areas and paths.
• Subdued earth tones blend into gardens seamlessly. Save bright white for accents.

Visit local suppliers to view rock varieties in person. Photos don’t always convey nuances accurately. Handling samples helps select ideal attributes.

You might also like our articles on the cost of crushed stone, class 5 gravel, or landscaping rocks.

River Rock Suppliers and Deals

Shop smart by:

• Going direct to local quarries for best bulk rates if near a source.
• Checking landscape companies for surplus inventory sales.
• Comparing prices across gravel yards, garden centers and home improvement stores.
• Ordering ahead and scheduling off-peak deliveries for potential discounts.
• Asking about price-matching policies to guarantee the lowest rates.
• Getting quotes from multiple vendors and negotiating lower pricing.

Putting in some legwork saves money long run. Create a bidding war!

Benefits for Landscaping Projects

Advantages of river rocks include:

• Complement natural environments seamlessly. Provide beautiful texture.
• Extremely durable. Withstand all weather extremes once properly placed.
• Drain readily without compacting. Help manage erosion issues.
• Discourage weed growth. Require little maintenance.
• Provide sure-footing on paths, patios and play areas.
• Allow creative landscaping designs. Accent boulders and pebble mosaics.

River rocks check every box for functionality and aesthetics. Shop smart to reap savings without compromising benefits.

Final Words

With diligent price research and flexible bulk ordering that maximizes bulk savings potential, incorporating beautiful, functional river rocks need not break project budgets.

Comparing supplier rates, utilizing rock colors and sizes priced favorably in your region, and installing material yourself when able provides the most affordable access to upgraded landscape curb appeal and usability.

Just focus first on determining the optimal rock specifications for your needs, then put in time securing bids to discover the best pricing in your local market.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will a ton of river rock cover?

One ton of river rocks will typically cover 75-125 square feet of area spread evenly at a depth of 3-4 inches. The actual coverage depends on the rock sizes, density, compaction levels, and depth desired. Requesting rock in cubic yards makes estimating needed amounts easier.

What is the cheapest river rock?

The most affordable river rock type is usually locally quarried darker gray rounded basalts. They require minimal processing and transport compared to unusual white quartz varieties sourced farther away. Darker local rocks can be purchased for as low as $30 per ton in bulk.