How much topsoil do you need for 500 square feet?

Spreading topsoil 4 inches deep over 500 sq ft takes 6.17 cubic yards — roughly 7.1 tons, or 223 bags of 0.75 cu ft.

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Weight uses about 1.15 tons per cubic yard; wet soil weighs more.

Your results

Topsoil needed6.17 cu yd
Approx. weight7.1 tons
0.75 cu ft bags223
1 cu ft bags167
How much topsoil do you need for 500 square feet — diagram

Topsoil for 500 sq ft by depth

DepthCubic yardsApprox. tons0.75 cu ft bags
1 in1.541.7756
2 in3.093.55112
4 in6.177.1223
6 in9.2610.65334

At this volume, bulk delivery is the way to go — most suppliers deliver by the yard with a minimum order.

The math

500 × 4 in ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = 6.17 cu yd

Common questions

How many yards of topsoil for 500 sq ft?

6.17 cubic yards at 4 inches deep; 3.09 at 2 inches.

Want the full method, tips and other sizes? See the topsoil calculator guide.

Last reviewed November 1, 2026. Results are estimates — confirm with your supplier.

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