Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost Per Cubic Yard | $2.50 – $15.00 |
| Excavator & Operator Hourly Rates | $100 – $300 |
| Average Total Excavation Cost | $1,100 – $5,600 |
| Factors Affecting Costs | Soil type, project complexity, equipment needs |
Excavation is a critical step in many construction projects, whether it’s for building a new home, installing a swimming pool, or setting up drainage systems. While the cost can vary widely, understanding the factors that influence excavation costs can help you budget more effectively.
Excavation Cost
Below is a table outlining the average costs of various excavation projects. These costs can vary depending on several factors such as soil type, project complexity, and location.
Land Excavation Cost by Project
| Project | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Foundation pad for new home site | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| Dig a basement for new construction | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| Dig around existing house | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Dig an in-ground swimming pool | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Excavate a driveway, patio, or deck dirt pad | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Excavate a hillside or flatten slopes | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Grading for lawn installation | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Rock / ledge removal | $1,000 – $20,000+ |
| Trenching for sewer, septic, or drainage system | $500 – $1,200 |
Average Excavation Cost Calculator
The following table provides average excavation costs, giving you an idea of what to expect for your project.
Average Excavation Cost
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $3,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $500 |
| Maximum Cost | $20,000 |
| Average Range | $1,100 to $5,600 |
Cost to Excavate Land Per Cubic Yard & Hourly
Understanding how excavation costs are calculated can help you estimate your project’s budget more accurately.
Cost to Excavate Land
| Charge Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cost per cubic yard | $2.50 – $15.00 |
| Cost per hour (operator & excavator) | $100 – $300 |
| Cost per hour (operator only) | $50 – $150 |
| Cost per day (excavator rental only) | $200 – $700 |
| Cost per square foot | $1 – $5 |
| Cost per acre | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Excavation Cost Per Cubic Yard
Soil type can significantly impact the cost per cubic yard.
| Soil Type or Condition | Cost per Cubic Yard* |
|---|---|
| Light soil | $2.50 – $6.00 |
| Average soil | $6.00 – $10.00 |
| Heavy/wet soil or loose rock | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Jackhammered rock | $50 – $200+ |
Excavator Hourly Rates
The cost of hiring an excavator and an operator can vary, but typically ranges from $100 to $300 per hour.
Excavation Prices by Project
The cost of excavation can vary widely depending on the specific project.
New Home Site Excavation Cost
Excavating a site for a new home can cost between $1,500 and $10,000, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Basement or Crawl Space Excavation Cost
Excavation costs can vary widely based on the depth and difficulty of the soil.
Basement Excavation Cost Calculator
| Basement Height & Difficulty | Average Cost* |
|---|---|
| 8’ – 9’ (standard soil) | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| 10’ – 12’ (standard soil) | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| 8’ – 12’ (difficult or rocky soil) | $30,000 – $50,000+ |
Cost to Dig Around an Existing Foundation
Excavating around an existing foundation can cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the complexity and required depth.
Cost to Excavate a Hillside
Hillside excavation can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the slope and soil conditions.
Pool Excavation Cost
Excavating for an in-ground swimming pool generally costs between $1,000 and $5,000.
Cost of Excavating for a Driveway, Patio, Garage, or Deck
The cost to excavate for driveways, patios, garages, or decks usually ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.
Yard Excavation Estimates
Grading and excavation for lawn installation typically range from $1,000 to $5,000.
Rock Excavation and Ledge Removal Rates
Removing rocks or ledges can be quite expensive, ranging from $1,000 to upwards of $20,000 or more, particularly if heavy machinery like jackhammers is required.
Cost to Dig a Pond
Excavating a pond can have variable costs depending on the size and depth, generally ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
Cost Factors of Earth Excavation and Grading
Several factors influence the cost of earth excavation and grading, including soil type, project complexity, and additional requirements like removing rocks or adding backfill dirt.
Earth Excavation & Grading Costs
| Project Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Land clearing | $1,150 – $3,700 |
| Land grading and leveling | $500 – $5,000 |
| Trenching | $500 – $1,200 |
| Dirt removal | $140 – $230 per cubic yard |
| Additional backfill / fill dirt | $5 to $25 per cubic yard |
Cost to Move or Remove Dirt
Moving or removing dirt typically costs $140 to $230 per cubic yard, depending on the amount and type of soil.
Residential Cut and Fill Cost
The cut and fill method involves moving soil from one area to another for leveling purposes, generally costing $5 to $25 per cubic yard.
Land Excavation FAQs
What is Land Excavation?
Land excavation involves removing earth to prepare a site for construction or other projects. This can include removing topsoil, leveling the land, and digging foundations or trenches.
How Long Does Excavation Take?
The timeline for excavation can vary depending on the project size and complexity. Small projects may take a few days, while larger undertakings could stretch over several weeks.
Can Excavation and Grading Be Done in the Winter?
Yes, excavation and grading can be done in the winter, but it may be more challenging and costly due to frozen ground and potential weather delays.
Getting Estimates from Excavation Companies
When seeking estimates from excavation companies, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you get an accurate and comprehensive quote.
Questions to Ask
- What is included in the excavation cost?
- How long will the project take?
- What type of equipment will be used?
- Are there any additional charges for moving or removing soil?
- What measures are taken to ensure site safety and compliance with local regulations?
Understanding these cost factors and asking the right questions will help you make an informed decision and ensure your excavation project is completed efficiently and within budget.
