Typical gravel costs in Illinois (2026)
Estimated cost (bulk, delivered) for common projects in Illinois, next to the US average. Change any option in the calculator above to price your exact project.
| Project | Illinois range | Illinois typical | US typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden path, 3×30 ft, 3 in | $106 – $236 | $171 | $165 |
| Driveway section, 10×40 ft, 4 in | $258 – $505 | $381 | $367 |
| Full driveway, 12×60 ft, 6 in | $589 – $1,099 | $844 | $812 |
| Mulch beds, 200 sq ft, 3 in | $111 – $243 | $177 | $170 |
What changes the price in Illinois
Illinois's climate: cold, windy winters with deep frost and hot, humid summers. These local factors matter most for gravel projects:
- Ask for CA-6. That's the crushed limestone base (also called "grade 8") Illinois suppliers sell for driveways and patios. It packs hard and is the standard driveway base in Illinois.
- Local stone is cheapest. In Illinois, crushed limestone is the local staple. Stone hauled in from out of state costs noticeably more.
- Build a deeper base. Use 6–8 in of compacted base on driveways — thin gravel heaves and ruts after freeze–thaw and snowplowing. Raise the plow shoes so the blade doesn't scrape up the stone.
Labor, sales tax and permits in Illinois
- Labor and prices: Illinois's construction cost index is 1.10 — 10% above the US average, the 9th highest of the 50 states and DC. Prices in big metros (Chicago, Aurora, Naperville) usually run above the state average, and rural areas below it.
- Sales tax: 6.25% state rate plus local taxes (10.25% in Chicago). The estimates on this page don't include it.
- Building rules: Illinois follows local codes — most cities and villages adopt the IRC, while Chicago enforces its own Chicago Building Code. Permits and inspections are handled by your city or county, so confirm requirements with your local building department before you start.
Illinois vs. other large states
40×10 ft crushed stone driveway section, 4 in deep, delivered — typical cost in the 10 most populous states:
| State | Typical cost | vs. US avg |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $351 | -4% |
| Georgia | $354 | -4% |
| Texas | $355 | -3% |
| Florida | $359 | -2% |
| Ohio | $362 | -1% |
| Michigan | $367 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $371 | +1% |
| Illinois | $381 | +4% |
| New York | $396 | +8% |
| California | $399 | +9% |
See all 50 states on the main gravel & mulch calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much does gravel cost in Illinois?
40×10 ft crushed stone driveway section, 4 in deep, delivered costs about $258–$505 in Illinois (typical $381), compared with $367 at the US average. Your exact price depends on size, materials and your contractor — use the calculator above for your own numbers.
What is the best driveway gravel base in Illinois?
Ask local suppliers for CA-6 — the crushed limestone base (also called "grade 8") Illinois suppliers sell for driveways and patios. It compacts into a hard base. Top it with a clean stone like #57 if you want a looser gravel surface.
Is gravel cheaper in Illinois than in other states?
Illinois's construction cost index is 1.10, 10% above the US average and the 9th highest of the 50 states and DC. Among the 10 most populous states, Illinois ranks 8th cheapest for this project.
Does the estimate include sales tax?
No. Sales tax on materials in Illinois is 6.25% state rate plus local taxes (10.25% in Chicago). Contractors usually build it into their quotes, so compare quotes on the same basis.