Landscaping
Mulch delivery and spreading (5 cubic yards): what it costs in Massachusetts
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $120 | $300 |
| Labor: 3 to 6 hours × $65 to $90 an hour | $195 | $540 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $0 | $100 |
| Total, rounded | $310 | $940 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $24.64 an hour, times 2.6 to 3.6 to cover what a contractor bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Materials are a band from basic to high-end. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your home, materials and contractor change the number.
Deliver and spread mulch in garden beds. Five yards covers about 1,500 sq ft at 2 inches.
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What is usually included
- Mulch delivery
- Spread and edge
- Bed cleanup
- Haul away extra
What moves the price
- Type of mulch
- Bed size
- Weeding required
- Delivery access
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is delivery included?
- How deep will it go?
- Do you remove old mulch?
- What type of mulch?
Can you do it yourself?
A common DIY, but moving several yards by wheelbarrow is hard work, so many people pay for delivery and spreading.
Common questions
How much mulch do I need?
Plan for 2 to 3 inches deep. One cubic yard covers about 100 square feet at 3 inches. Measure bed area to estimate.
Does mulch need replacing yearly?
Not always. Top up with a thin layer each spring. Wood mulch breaks down and needs a fresh layer every 1 to 2 years.
Which type is best?
Shredded hardwood is a common choice for beds. Pine bark and cedar last longer, and dyed mulches fade. Pick what suits your plants.
How much does mulch delivery and spreading (5 cubic yards) cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $310 to $940. It is an estimate built from labor wages and material prices, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $310 to $940 |
| New York City area | $280 to $880 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $300 to $880 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $300 to $880 |
| Houston area, Texas | $250 to $790 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $270 to $820 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $280 to $850 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $270 to $820 |
| Miami area, Florida | $270 to $820 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $310 to $940 |