Footing Excavation Cost Calculator for Jacksonville
Calculate Cost Of Footing Excavation
How much does excavation in Jacksonville cost?
Footing excavation costs in Jacksonville range from $3.52 to $20.42 per cubic yard, translating to a total cost of $138 to $420 per cubic yard. The hourly rates for an excavator and operator have increased from $1,518 to $7,700. On average, the total excavation cost varies widely based on project specifics, such as soil type, site accessibility, and depth of excavation. These factors collectively influence the final price, making obtaining a detailed quote tailored to your project’s requirements essential.Additionally, factors such as proximity to existing structures, presence of vegetation, and underground utilities influence excavation complexity and costs.

Cost Category | Price Range |
Cost per cubic yard | $3.20 – $18.80 |
Total cost per cubic yard | $125 – $375 |
Excavator & operator hourly rates | $1,378 – $7,000 |
Average total excavation cost | $8,125 – $177,510 |
Factors Influencing Footing Excavation Costs
Soil Type and Condition
The composition and condition of soil are pivotal in determining excavation costs. Soft, loose soils demand more labor and time for excavation compared to compact ones. Conducting comprehensive soil testing and analysis aids in understanding soil characteristics and planning excavation operations accordingly.
Depth and Size of Footings
The depth and dimensions of footings directly influence excavation volume and, consequently, costs. Deeper footings entail more excavation work, leading to increased expenses. Moreover, larger footings required for robust or tall structures necessitate more extensive excavation efforts, adding to the overall project costs.
Access and Site Conditions
Accessibility to the construction site and prevailing site conditions are critical factors impacting excavation costs. Sites with restricted access or challenging terrains may necessitate specialized equipment or techniques, thereby escalating overall expenses.
Additionally, factors such as proximity to existing structures, presence of vegetation, and underground utilities influence excavation complexity and costs.
Equipment and Labor Costs
The choice of excavation equipment and prevailing labor rates significantly contribute to overall project costs. Varying soil types and site conditions may require specific machinery, affecting rental or acquisition costs. Labor expenses vary based on factors like skill level, experience, and project location, thus influencing the overall budget allocation for excavation.
Jacksonville Footing Excavation Costs Across Various Projects
Footing excavation costs are contingent on various factors, including soil composition, excavation depth, terrain characteristics, potential obstructions, and the volume of earth to be moved. These variables collectively influence the overall estimation for the excavation process.
Project | Average Cost |
Foundation pad for new home site | $1,875 – $12,538 |
Dig a basement for new construction | $1,875 – $12,558 |
Dig around existing house | $6,250 – $18,755 |
Dig an in-ground swimming pool | $1,250 – $6,250 |
Excavate a driveway, patio, or deck dirt pad | $1,250 – $3,128 |
Excavate a hillside or flatten slopes | $1,250 – $6,250 |
Grading for lawn installation | $1,250 – $6,270 |
Rock / ledge removal | $1,250 – $25,000+ |
Trenching for sewer, septic, or drainage system | $625 – $1,550 |
Hire Footing Excavation Contractors
- School & University Building
- High-Rise Building
- Shopping Complex
- Data Center Building
- Multi-Family Building
- Hotel Building
- Hospital Building
- Warehouse Building
Cost to Excavate Land Per Cubic Yard & Hourly in Jacksonville
In Jacksonville, excavation expenses are typically calculated based on cubic yardage or project scope, with hourly rates often applied for smaller tasks. Square foot pricing is less common, primarily reserved for shallow grading projects. It’s common for excavation contractors in Jacksonville to establish minimum project fees ranging from $500 to $900.
Charge Type | Average Cost |
Cost per cubic yard | $3.30 – $18.75 |
Cost per hour (operator & excavator) | $125 – $380 |
Cost per hour (operator only) | $62.50 – $187.65 |
Cost per day (excavator rental only) | $250 – $874 |
Cost per square foot | $1.25 – $6.55 |
Cost per acre | $1,250 – $3,750 |
Excavation cost per cubic yard in Jacksonville
Excavation costs per cubic yard typically range from $3.50 to $18.20 in Jacksonville. This variance is influenced by factors such as soil composition, excavation depth, terrain intricacies, and the presence of obstructions. Sand or lighter soil often incurs lower excavation expenses, whereas rocky terrain or areas necessitating jackhammering can significantly raise costs to $65 to $240 or beyond per cubic yard.
Soil Type or Condition | Cost per Cubic Yard |
Light soil | $3.00 – $7.35 |
Average soil | $7.25 – $12.55 |
Heavy/wet soil or loose rock | $12.00 – $18.00 |
Jackhammered rock | $60 – $242+ |
Excavation Prices for New Home Sites in Jacksonville
Excavator Hourly Rates in Jacksonville
Excavator hourly rates typically range from $123 to $367 for operators with their mini excavator, backhoe, or skid-steer loader. Hiring an operator without equipment costs $65 to $188 per hour. Most operators charge a minimum of one day or eight hours. Renting your mini excavator in Jacksonville costs $245 to $842 per day, varying based on size and features.
New home site excavation cost
Excavation costs for home sites in Jacksonville typically range from $1,545 to $10,000 on average, contingent upon factors like foundation size, depth, and terrain. In areas with rocky soil, large boulders, or excessive clay, excavation for a large foundation can exceed $20,020.
Pouring a concrete slab foundation in Jacksonville generally costs between $6,900 to $16,240, while building an unfinished basement foundation may range from $26,800 to $50,320.

The overall cost of building a house in Jacksonville averages between $155,325 to $416,320, varying based on size and design preferences.
For those considering a barndominium, the cost typically falls within the range of $75 to $125 per square foot.
Basement or Crawl Space Excavation Cost in Jacksonville
Basement excavation for new construction in Jacksonville now averages between $12,000 to $36,027. This cost variation is influenced by factors such as size, depth, and terrain. Typically, this process takes 2 to 4 days to complete. However, in areas with challenging access or rocky soil, excavation costs may exceed $36,000 to $60,020 or more.
Basement Height & Difficulty | Average Cost |
8’ – 9’ (standard soil) | $12,050 – $24,020 |
10’ – 12’ (standard soil) | $24,000 – $36,027 |
8’ – 12’ (difficult or rocky soil) | $36,000 – $60,000+ |
Tips for Cost-Effective Footing Excavation
Proper Planning and Design
Thorough planning and meticulous design are paramount for minimizing excavation requirements and associated costs. Collaboration between architects and engineers is crucial to devise efficient footing layouts that reduce the need for extensive excavation. By carefully considering factors such as soil conditions, structural requirements, and building codes, designers can optimize the design to minimize excavation while ensuring structural integrity.
Clear Communication with Contractors
Effective communication with excavation contractors is essential for accurate cost estimation and smooth project execution. Clear and detailed communication of project requirements, including footing specifications, excavation depths, and access constraints, enables contractors to provide accurate quotes and plan their operations effectively. Regular updates and clarifications help prevent misunderstandings and minimize the risk of costly change orders during excavation.
Download Template For Footing Excavation Project Breakdown
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Regular Monitoring and Quality Control
Continuous monitoring and stringent quality control during excavation are essential to ensure compliance with plans and specifications. Regular inspections help identify any deviations from the design or unexpected challenges early on, allowing for prompt resolution and mitigation of potential issues. By maintaining strict quality control standards, project teams can prevent costly rework, delays, and safety hazards associated with excavation activities.
Conclusion
Footing excavation costs in Jacksonville range widely, from $3.52 to $20. per cubic yard, totaling $138 to $420 per cubic yard. Excavator and operator hourly rates have increased from $1,518 to $7,700. The final excavation cost varies based on project specifics such as soil type, accessibility, and depth. Understanding factors like soil composition, excavation depth, and site conditions is crucial. Various projects like foundation pads, basements, and swimming pools exhibit different cost ranges. Excavation costs in Jacksonville depend on factors like soil type, depth, and accessibility. Obtaining a tailored quote is essential for accurate project budgeting.
FAQs
In Jacksonville, the cost of footing excavation typically ranges from $3.52 to $20.42 per cubic yard, translating to a total cost of $138 to $420 per cubic yard. This range is influenced by factors such as soil type, excavation depth, and site conditions.
The hourly rates for an excavator and operator in Jacksonville range from $1,518 to $7,700. These rates can vary based on the complexity of the job and the type of equipment required.
- The average costs for various excavation projects in Jacksonville are as follows:
- Foundation pad for a new home site: $1,875 – $12,538
- Digging a basement for new construction: $1,875 – $12,558
- Digging around an existing house: $6,250 – $18,755
- Digging an in-ground swimming pool: $1,250 – $6,250
Excavating a driveway, patio, or deck dirt pad: $1,250 – $3,128
Factors that can increase the complexity and cost of excavation include proximity to existing structures, presence of vegetation, underground utilities, restricted site access, and challenging terrain. These factors may require specialized equipment or techniques, thereby escalating overall expenses.
Soil type significantly affects excavation costs. For example, light soil may cost between $3.00 to $7.35 per cubic yard, average soil between $7.25 to $12.55 per cubic yard, and heavy/wet soil or loose rock between $12.00 to $18.00 per cubic yard. Rocky terrain that requires jackhammering can raise costs to $60 to $242 or more per cubic yard.
Excavating a new home site in Jacksonville typically ranges from $1,545 to $10,000 on average. In areas with rocky soil, large boulders, or excessive clay, the cost can exceed $20,020. The specific cost depends on the foundation size, depth, and terrain.
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Process To Get Footing Excavation Cost Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get footing excavation cost estimate report.
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You need to send your plan to us.
You can send us your plan on info@estimatorflorida.com
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You receive a quote for your project.
Before starting your project, we send you a quote for your service. That quote will have detailed information about your project. Here you will get information about the size, difficulty, complexity and bid date when determining pricing.
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Get Estimate Report
Our team will takeoff and estimate your project. When we deliver you’ll receive a PDF and an Excel file of your estimate. We can also offer construction lead generation services for the jobs you’d like to pursue further.