Best Stone for Retaining Wall: 2026 Picks
A direct pick of the right material for your project, with three sensible alternates and what each one costs delivered.
Our top pick: #57 Crushed Stone
For retaining wall gravel projects, #57 Crushed Stone is the material we ship most often. The knits under load, stays angular behavior and fast drainage profile are what most crews are after on this job. Delivered pricing lands at $38-$62/ton on full-truck orders across our service area.
Why #57 Crushed Stone fits retaining wall gravel
The 3/4 – 1″ size sits in the sweet spot for retaining wall gravel. Crews like it because it is widely stocked at quarries, the price is predictable, and you can get a tandem-load delivered same day in most metros. Spec it at the depth your local code or contractor recommends, and plan a thin re-dressing every couple of years.
Worth considering: Boulders, Fill Dirt, and Crusher Run
Each of these is a sensible alternative when budget, drainage, or aesthetics push you off the main pick. Boulders lands at $100-$350/ton with moderate drainage and a natural mixed earth tones look. Fill Dirt lands at $12-$28/yard with slow (holds water) drainage and a brown, loamy look. Crusher Run lands at $28-$48/ton with moderate drainage and a sharp gray, utilitarian look.
How much to order
A typical residential retaining wall gravel project runs 4 to 12 tons of #57 Crushed Stone. Use the calculator on the site to plug in your dimensions, then pad the order 10 percent for waste and edges. Full-truck delivery (16+ tons) is the cheapest route on a per-ton basis, with 15 to 20 percent savings over partial loads.
Top picks side by side
| Material | Spec | Fit & price |
|---|---|---|
| #57 Crushed Stone (our pick) | Size 3/4 - 1" · Sharp gray, utilitarian | Best for driveway gravel and drainage gravel · $38-$62/ton |
| Boulders | Size varies" · Natural mixed earth tones | Best for retaining wall gravel and decorative gravel · $100-$350/ton |
| Fill Dirt | Size n/a · brown, loamy | Best for erosion control and driveway gravel · $12-$28/yard |
| Crusher Run | Size varies" · Sharp gray, utilitarian | Best for driveway gravel and base course gravel · $28-$48/ton |
Verdict
For retaining wall gravel projects, the answer is #57 Crushed Stone. It is the material we move the most of, the price is sensible, and every quarry in our network keeps it in stock.
Plan with a calculator
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Why is Boulders the best for this project?
Boulders give a natural stacked-stone look with no mortar. Pair with crushed gravel backfill for drainage behind the wall.
Are there cheaper alternatives?
Yes - but the cost difference is usually $1-5 per ton, while the wrong material can double your install time. Pick Boulders unless your local quarry doesn't carry it.
How much do I need?
Depends on area and depth. A typical residential project needs 2-6 tons. Use the linked calculator for exact tonnage.
Can I install it myself?
Yes - most homeowners spread Boulders with a wheelbarrow, rake, and plate compactor over a weekend.
How long does it last?
Properly installed, 10+ years before any top-up is needed. UV doesn't break down rock.
Where do I buy it?
Order from us - bulk delivery same-day in most metros. Or buy bagged at home centers for small jobs.