Free Tool

Retaining Wall Calculator

Estimate blocks, materials, and costs for your retaining wall project by length, height, and material type.

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$450
estimated material cost
60 sq ft
wall face area
Blocks: 71 (with 5% waste)
Backfill gravel: 2.2 cu yd

Need to measure your wall line? Use LotSite to trace it on satellite imagery →

Cost Comparison

Retaining Wall Cost by Material

Estimated cost for a 2-foot tall retaining wall by length and material.

20 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$300
Natural Stone
$700
Timber / Railroad Tie
$360
Interlocking Block
$440
30 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$450
Natural Stone
$1,050
Timber / Railroad Tie
$540
Interlocking Block
$660
50 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$750
Natural Stone
$1,750
Timber / Railroad Tie
$900
Interlocking Block
$1,100
75 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$1,125
Natural Stone
$2,625
Timber / Railroad Tie
$1,350
Interlocking Block
$1,650
100 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$1,500
Natural Stone
$3,500
Timber / Railroad Tie
$1,800
Interlocking Block
$2,200
150 ft long × 2 ft tall
Concrete Block
$2,250
Natural Stone
$5,250
Timber / Railroad Tie
$2,700
Interlocking Block
$3,300

Estimates are for a 2-foot tall wall with materials only. Taller walls cost proportionally more. Professional installation typically doubles the total.

Retaining Wall Guide

Retaining Wall Basics

Retaining walls hold back soil on sloped properties, preventing erosion and creating level terraces for gardens, patios, and lawns. They are one of the most impactful landscaping features you can add — both functionally and aesthetically.

For DIY projects, concrete interlocking blocks are the most beginner-friendly option. They stack without mortar and are designed to lean back slightly into the slope for stability. For walls under 3 feet, a homeowner with basic tools can build one in a weekend.

The most important part of any retaining wall is drainage. Water pressure behind a wall is the number one cause of failure. Always install a perforated drain pipe at the base and backfill with gravel — never backfill directly with soil.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan your wall with satellite imagery

Enter your address to view your property slope and plan your retaining wall location.

Also check out our gravel calculator and fence calculator