Are you thinking about putting artificial grass in your yard but don't know the costs? Many homeowners like the idea of artificial turf but worry about the price. So, what does it cost to switch to synthetic grass?
The cost to put in artificial grass is between $15 and $19 per square foot. This includes both the cost of the grass and the work to install it. For a typical yard of 500 square feet, you might pay about $7,400 to $9,350 for mid-quality grass. Remember, choosing nylon turf will make the price go up by 20%.
The kind of artificial grass you pick affects the price a lot. Polypropylene turf costs $2 to $6.35 per square foot. Polyethylene costs $2.20 to $4.10 per square foot, and nylon costs $5 to $6.40 per square foot. Where you live also changes the price, with the Northeast U.S. costing $17 to $23 per square foot. The Southwest U.S. costs $12 to $18 per square foot.
Average Artificial Grass Installation Costs
Installing artificial grass costs more than real grass at first. But, it pays off over time. Synthetic turf lasts 12-15 years, sometimes longer. Costs vary by region, from a few dollars to $20 per square foot. The average cost is $9 to $12 per square foot, including labor and materials.
Factors Affecting Artificial Grass Cost
Many things affect the cost of putting in artificial grass. These include:
- Size of the area – Bigger areas cost less per square foot.
- Quality and brand of the turf – Better quality turf costs more.
- Face weight of the turf – Heavier turf is pricier.
- Shape and accessibility of the area – Tough shapes and hard spots raise costs.
- Underlying materials – Adding a base, drainage, and infill increases the price.
In the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area, a 1,000-square-foot lawn costs about $6,000. This is with an average cost of $6 per square foot. The final price depends on the factors listed above.
Artificial Grass Cost by Material Type
The type of material used for artificial grass affects its cost. Polypropylene, polyethylene, and nylon are common materials. Each has its own price and features.
Polypropylene is the cheapest, costing $2 to $6.35 per square foot. It's great for indoor or shady spots but not as tough as others.
Polyethylene falls in the middle price range, from $2.50 to $5 per square foot. It looks natural, feels soft, and lasts a long time. Many homeowners choose it.
Nylon is the priciest, from $5.50 to $6.50 per square foot. But it's also the most durable. It's perfect for busy areas and sports fields.
| Material | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Polypropylene | $2 – $6.35 |
| Polyethylene | $2.50 – $5 |
| Nylon | $5.50 – $6.50 |
Choosing the right artificial grass means looking at cost, durability, and how you'll use the space. Polypropylene is budget-friendly but might not last as long. Polyethylene or nylon could be a better choice for busy spots or sports fields.
Artificial Grass Installation Labor Costs
Installing artificial grass can cost a lot for labor. Professionals charge $4 to $25 per square foot. The work can take from 1-2 days for small areas to a week for big or complex ones.
The cost also depends on where you live. Installing in front yards is usually cheaper than in backyards or on rooftops. These places need more work and time.
Homeowners might try to install it themselves to save money. But, this takes time and might lead to extra costs. Hiring professionals ensures a good job done right, which is often worth it.
| Item | Low Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Lawn Cost for 129 square feet | $1,003.74 | $1,238.79 |
| Artificial Lawn Installation Labor (basic) for 129 square feet | $1,003.74 | $1,238.79 |
| Artificial Lawn Installation Job Supplies for 129 square feet | $1,003.74 | $1,238.79 |
| Artificial Lawn Installation Equipment Allowance for 129 square feet | $1,003.74 | $1,238.79 |
| Artificial Lawn Debris Disposal for 129 square feet | $0.567 | $0.645 |
The cost to install artificial grass starts at $15.01 to $18.41 per square foot in April 2024. Adding a general contractor's overhead and markup can increase the total by 13% to 22%.
Long-Term Maintenance Costs for Artificial Grass
Artificial grass needs less upkeep than real grass but still requires some care. The yearly cost to keep an artificial lawn in good shape is between $250 and $350. This covers regular brushing, minimal watering, and adding infill material when needed.
If you have pets, you might spend more on cleaning up after them and using deodorizers. Over time, your artificial lawn might show signs like tearing, rippling, or shifting. These issues might need fixing or replacing parts of the lawn. Even though artificial grass costs more upfront, it saves money and needs less care over time.
Your artificial grass can last 8 to 10 years before needing a full replacement, which is about $500,000. Keeping it clean and maintained, like deep cleaning monthly and quarterly checks, can make it last longer. This helps avoid expensive repairs or early replacements.
