How much does excavation and grading cost in San Rafael?

Most San Rafael projects land between $10,100 – $30,200, with an average near $20,100. Local crews quote roughly $67 – $200 per cubic yard.

What is included in the San Rafael price per cubic yard?

Typically materials, labor and cleanup. Permits, disposal and access challenges are usually quoted separately.

Unit pricing

Excavation and Grading cost per cubic yard in San Rafael

Excavation and Grading cost per cubic yard in San Rafael, California in 2026.

Low

$10,100

Average

$20,100

High

$30,200

San Rafael crews quote about $67 – $200 per cubic yard.

Price my project See top-rated San Rafael pros

Multiply local unit rates by your real measurements.

What drives excavation and grading prices in San Rafael

Local labor, permitting and climate move San Rafael prices away from the national average.

Labor market

Licensed San Rafael contractors carry California workers' comp and prevailing wage pressure, and crews here quote roughly 34% above the national labor average. Demand in the Bay Area market peaks in spring, so booking early usually beats a rush premium.

Permits

San Rafael follows the California Building Standards Code, so most structural, electrical, plumbing and re-roof work needs a permit from the San Rafael building department plus Title 24 energy compliance. Bay Area seismic retrofit standards and strict energy upgrades are common conditions of approval.

Climate

San Rafael sits in a mild marine climate with heavy winter rain, so expect proper drainage, moisture detailing and a dry-season schedule for exterior work.

San Rafael unit pricing by material

Simple grading$83 – $115

Standard excavation and haul$115 – $150

Rock or difficult soil$150 – $195

Excavation with retaining and drainage$195 – $270

Ways to lower your San Rafael price

Keep excavated soil on site for backfill and berms to avoid haul-off.
Schedule when the ground is dry — wet soil doubles handling time.
Collect three written bids on an identical scope — spreads of 20–40% are normal.
Book in the off-season and stay flexible on the start date to save 5–15%.
Bundle nearby work into one mobilization so you only pay setup and travel once.
Ask what the contractor would change to cut 10% without hurting durability.

San Rafael questions

People also search: excavation and grading cost San Rafael · excavation and grading near me San Rafael · excavation and grading price per cubic yard San Rafael · excavation and grading permit cost San Rafael

Price my project in San Rafael

Answer a few questions and we'll model a low, average and premium price for your zip code — then match you with accredited local pros.

Price my project