Artificial grass cost typically falls between $2,725 to $10,000, including materials and labor. The average installation costs $6,375, and the price per square foot ranges from $5.45 to $20. Most homeowners pay an average of $12.75 per square foot, but you should expect a higher price for a curved yard, a large property, or a nylon turf lawn.
The initial investment in artificial turf is higher than the cost to seed a lawn with natural grass, but – with a lifespan of 10 to 25 years and no lawn maintenance fees – a synthetic lawn might be a long-term savings.
Average artificial grass costs in 2024
Had enough with mowing, fertilizing, and using gallons of water to keep your yard green? Install an instant evergreen lawn with a typical price of $2,725 to $10,000 and almost no upkeep necessary. If you go for an economic turf installation in a really small space, you can pull off the project with a budget of about $1,755.
| National average cost | $6,375 |
| Typical price range | $2,725 – $10,000 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $1,755 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $10,750 |
Consider these sample prices for a lawn size of 500 square feet. We used the average cost of $12.75 per square foot to calculate the national average overall cost. The typical price range uses the most common lowest and highest prices per square foot.
To get on the lower end of the price range, choose polyethylene or polypropylene turf. It’s less expensive, feels nice, and looks good. This way, you can save up to 50% on the price of the turf itself (that’s about $1,250 for a 500-square-foot lawn).
Labor accounts for roughly 50% to 60% of the total cost of installing synthetic turf. Check offers from three to five providers to find the best possible price, or install the artificial grass yourself, if you’re handy with tools. You can save between $1,725 to $6,000 for a 500-square-foot surface with DIY installation.
Expect higher prices if your lawn has curved edges, is on a slope, has many bushes and trees, or is hard to access. Curbing and other landscaping services increase prices, but they might be worth it. Find out more from this guide.
Artificial grass cost estimator by lawn size
Synthetic turf costs depend a lot on the size and shape of your lawn. You can pay between $2,725 and $10,000 for a 500-square-foot lawn. A 1000-square-foot project typically begins at $5,450 or more. This is the total cost, including materials and labor.
| Project size | Average overall cost (materials and labor) |
| 300 sq. ft. | $3,820 |
| 500 sq. ft. | $6,365 |
| 800 sq. ft. | $10,180 |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $12,725 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | $19,090 |
Other factors that affect cost
The difference between a $2,725 project and a $10,000 project is primarily in the type of artificial turf you choose and the cost of labor to have it installed. But it also depends on things like your yard’s specific shape and location.
Artificial grass cost and yard shape
A curved-shaped property can add 15% to 20% to your budget, on average. You need to make extra cuts around curved edges for a natural-looking appearance, so you have to buy more turf. The project takes longer, and the installation cost is also higher.
Installing artificial lawns on a slope
If your yard is on a slope, installers need hanging timbers along the perimeter to prevent synthetic turf from sliding down. The sod is harder to remove, crushed rock is more difficult to level, and everything takes more time. This means a higher labor cost and some extra bucks for materials.
Artificial grass costs by material
The main synthetic grass types are polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon. Turf is usually sold in rolls of 5, 7, 10, or 15 feet in width, and you buy the length you need.
High-quality nylon sod is the most expensive. Polyethylene and polypropylene are more affordable and include low-cost options. Our guide to choosing the right artificial grass can help you figure out which material is best for your needs, along with what you should look for in terms of face weight, blade shape, and more.
| Synthetic grass material | Typical cost per square foot |
| Polyethylene | $2.20 – $4.10 |
| Polypropylene | $2 – $6.35 |
| Nylon | $5 – $6.40 |
Nylon artificial grass cost is typically between $5 and $6.40 per square foot. Choose nylon if your lawn gets extreme heat and sunlight for long periods. It has superior strength and can keep its shape better under heavy usage. However, its more robust blades feel slightly unnatural compared to other fake grass materials.
Polyethylene turf is overall the cheapest option, costing between $2.20 and $4.10 per square foot. Soft and pleasant to the touch, it has a natural look but is less durable than nylon.
Polyethylene grass works better with a partially shaded lawn with less exposure to extreme heat. Heavy usage also can damage the grass blades. So, make sure you use polyethylene grass on a low or medium-traffic surface.
Polypropylene grass costs between $2 and $6.35 per square foot and has a soft, natural texture. Higher-end options can be pretty durable.
The bottom line? Between the cheaper and the higher-end options, you can save up to $2,175 on a 500-square-foot project.
Synthetic grass cost by brand
Turf brands also can change your home improvement budget. Stores sell artificial grass with prices ranging from $1.80 to $12.55 per square foot or even higher for commercial use and sports field turf. Here’s a cost comparison of some of the most popular turf brands.
| Brand | Average cost (without installation) |
| ForeverLawn | $4.50 – $10.35 |
| PreGra | $2.50 – $4 |
| SYNLawn | $2.15 – $7.50 |
| ProGreen | $4.50 – $11.50 |
| OneLawn | $2.40 – $7.40 |
| Perfect Turf | $4 – $10.75 |
| EasyTurf | $1.80 – $4.60 |
| MegaGrass | $3.50 – $5.45 |
| Everlast | $2 – $4.50 |
| EnvyPet | $5 – $6.50 |
| DuraPlay | $4.60 – $12.55 |
Artificial turf face weight
Turf face weight is the number of ounces of grass fiber per square foot. It does not include turf backing, the material the grass is stitched on. Face weight typically ranges from 30 to 90 ounces, and you should look for 50 to 80 ounces for residential use.
Higher values usually mean higher grass density and better durability to foot traffic. Such synthetic grass also feels fuller, lusher, and more natural to the touch.
In general, prices will vary with face weight. You can expect to pay more for synthetic grass with a higher face weight.
Face weight differs from total or backing weight, so ensure you have the correct numbers.
Artificial turf blade shape
Blade shape is another factor that will influence your budget. For example, S-shaped and simple-omega-shaped turf tend to be less costly. Diamond shape sells more as a high-end option. M-shape and W-shape can also pick your pockets for some extra dime.
So, how do you choose? Here are the differences between the most popular blade shapes:
- S-shaped blades have curved lines that make them feel and look very soft, like real grass. Their rounded profile doesn’t reflect sunlight much, so their color is a more vibrant, darker green. Traffic resistance is moderate and suitable for lawns that don’t expect heavy foot traffic.
- C-shaped turf has better resilience under heavy traffic and higher wear tolerance. Because of the C-shape, it might show more sheen than other options. For this reason, it’s more suitable for your backyard.
- Go for U-shaped blades if you’re looking for less glossy artificial grass. This structure makes turf flexible, with full, thick blades. It also gives good resistance under moderate to heavy foot traffic.
- The V-shape profile allows turf blades to spring back quicker after heavy traffic. They also stand up straight better than other turf types and have superior wear tolerance. Use V-shaped turf on a heavy-traffic lawn.
- Experts engineered M-shaped blades to spread pressure at multiple points along the blade. This type of turf has impressive durability. Use it for a lawn with heavy foot traffic, where you play sports with your children and friends.
- W-shaped blades have incredible resistance to foot traffic. This synthetic grass also has superior heat diffusion. W-shaped blade turf is an excellent idea for lawns exposed to extreme heat.
- Diamond-shaped turf is the closest to natural grass in look and feel. It is very soft and luxurious, focusing more on the feel and texture than durability. Choose it for low to medium-traffic areas.
- Omega-shaped blades are something to think about if you have pets. They have good resistance to traffic and are usually shorter blades and soft to the touch.
Labor costs
The average professional installation cost for synthetic turf ranges between $3.45 and $12 per square foot. Depending on lawn size and shape, work can take from one to two days to a week.
For 500 square feet, labor costs add $1,725 to $6,000 to your total cost. That price can go up if your artificial lawn is installed on a slope, has a curved shape, has bushes or trees, or is difficult to access.
Weed barrier fabric
The weed barrier is an obstacle for weeds and natural grass, stopping them from growing through synthetic turf. It costs, on average, between $0.05 to $0.85 per square foot, and you must place it under the road base. For a 500-square-foot lawn, this means an extra $25 to $425. But keeping your yard clean is worth it.
Road base
You need a base layer of crushed rock (aka a “road base”) for a stable, well-drained lawn. It’s also a barrier between dirt and turf and ensures an even layout of the synthetic grass material. A road base can cost between $0.30 and $0.70 per square foot of yard.
Artificial grass infill
Even if you choose a synthetic turf with a good face weight, without an infill, it might seem like a green tarp. Infill replaces the soil weight, adds stability, helps blades stand upright, and makes the turf look and feel like natural grass.
For artificial turf installation, you need about 1 pound of sand filler per square foot. The price ranges between $0.30 and $1.80 per pound. Antimicrobial filler might cost more, but it’s a must if you have pets using your lawn as a bathroom.
Seam tape for artificial grass
You can use nails and buried wood to make sure turf materials are stable on the ground. But seam tape is better for joining two intermediary strips of synthetic grass. It’s available in 4, 6, 8, and 12 inches wide, in rolls of 16, 32, 40, and 82 feet in length. Price ranges between $0.50 and $1.40 per linear foot. It’s cheaper if you buy one roll of 32 feet than two rolls of 16 feet.
Artificial turf might come with some added services. Some are optional; others can become a must-have. All of them make your yard more beautiful. They include stump or tree removal and installing a walkway. You can also opt for a patio, edging, retaining walls, and mulching. See how much these services would add to your project cost.
Grass removal
If you have an existing lawn to remove, expect grass removal to cost about $1.75 per square foot. Square footage, removal method, and access are key price factors that have most homeowners paying $0.88 to $1.84 per square foot of grass removed.
Tree removal
If you have a stump or a tree (fallen or not) in your yard, you might want to remove it before installing synthetic turf. On average, tree removal costs about $850, with typical prices ranging from $385 to $1,070. Pricing depends on the type and size of the tree and the state where you live.
Walkway and patio installation
A paver patio can be a pleasant and relaxing area in your backyard. If you are considering installing a synthetic lawn, now might be the moment to plan for a patio.
Installing a patio can cost between $2,290 and $6,420, with an average price of $4,500. The price per square foot ranges from $7 to $35.
In contrast, a walkway is much cheaper. A typical walkway costs about $1,620 to install, but the typical range is as low as $335 or as much as $2,840.
Landscape edging
The typical cost of landscape edging ranges from $15 to $20 per linear foot. The national average is around $1,325, ranging from $710 to $1,325.
One of the roles of edging is to act as a frame containing the road base. The other is to be an anchoring point for artificial turf margins. If poorly installed, turf margins can sink into the base material. Also, exterior spikes, nails, and staples can come loose.
Do you already have walls or paving around the lawn? Use that for edging. Otherwise, you might need to add some extra materials. You can choose metal edging, wood, plastic bender board, stone, brick, or concrete, in a decorative or hidden style.
Retaining walls for raised garden beds
Want to keep some natural plants in your artificial grass yard? You can create beautiful raised flower beds using retaining walls. If you place them on the side of the lawn, the walls can also act as edging for the synthetic turf.
The average cost of a retaining wall is $3,565 to $9,645, with most homeowners paying $40 to $345 per linear foot.
Mulch
Another way to insert bushes, trees, or flowers in or near artificial turf is to use mulch.
Mulch is small pieces of wood, shells, bark, straw, or rocks used to cover the soil around plants. It helps your plantings look more polished and prevents weeds from growing. Mulch also makes for an elegant transition from soil and plants to artificial turf.
Most mulch costs $50 to $155 per cubic yard, which is enough to cover about 100 square feet with a 3-inch layer. This includes material, delivery, and installation.
Some organic mulch has costs more, such as crushed shells that can reach up to $400 per cubic yard. If you want to save money, choose pine bark, straw, and other beautiful pieces of wood, which cost as little as $20 per cubic yard. Rocks and gravel will last longer but have a slightly higher starting cost at $50 per cubic yard.
You can also keep $25 to $45 per cubic yard in your pocket as savings if you decide to spread the mulch yourself.
Cost of installing artificial grass DIY
Because the labor alone costs a few thousand dollars when you hire a professional to install artificial turf for you, you might want to do it yourself. Here’s a breakdown of how much money you would spend on tools and how much work you would have to put in for a DIY artificial grass installation.
DIY cost breakdown
| Equipment/materials | Prices |
| Sod cutter – rental for 1 day | $91 |
| Shovel | $20 |
| Wheelbarrow | $60 |
| Garden rake | $25 |
| Hand pump sprayer | $30 |
| Weed grass killer | $35 – $45 |
| Turf staples | $17 |
| Compactor – rental for 1 day | $95 |
| Hammer | $18 |
| Turf cutter or carpet knife | $14 |
| Tape measure | $18 |
| Landscape edging stakes (100 pieces) | $34 |
| Joining tape (seam tape) – 25 linear feet | $13 – $35 |
| Turf glue | $42 |
| Pry bar | $15 |
| Power broom – rental for 1 day | $59 |
| Total cost of equipment | $586 – $618 |
If you install the turf yourself, you can save between $1,725 to $6,000 on labor. You might keep another $136 if you already own the essential tools (shovel, hammer, tape measure, etc). This does not include the cost of synthetic turf, road base, and weed barrier.
With all materials included, the DIY project cost ranges between $1,761 and $5,393. You can save an average of $2,800 (total cost) compared with a pro installation.
| Main DIY installation supplies | Average cost for a 500-sq.-ft. lawn |
| DIY equipment and materials/accessories | $586 – $618 |
| Synthetic turf | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Road base | $150 – $350 |
| Weed barrier | $25 – $425 |
| Total DIY cost | $1,761 – $5,393 |
DIY cost vs. professional cost
The average DIY cost for installing artificial turf is between $1,800 and $5,400 for a 500-square-foot lawn. Professional installation for a similar project typically costs between $2,725 and $10,000, so you can save around $2,800 by doing it yourself. This includes labor and materials, but most of the savings come from labor costs.
On the other hand, installing artificial grass DIY takes attention, time, and a lot of energy to get it right. What a professional team can do in a couple of days might take you a week or more.
If you’re not careful, the difference between your work and a professional installation can mean:
- A lawn full of bumps
- Margins where you can see crushed rocks underneath
- Weeds and grass growing in time through your lawn
- Grass blades oriented in the wrong direction and reflecting the sunlight
- Turf strips coming off and seam tape becoming visible underneath
- Visible stakes and staples
For some tasks, you will need help. So before deciding to take on this project, think it through.
Cost of artificial grass by location
The cost of artificial grass also varies by location. Prices available for your front or back yard might not be the same as if you want synthetic turf on your balcony. The same applies to areas around the pool, rooftops, or walls.
Dog play spaces and sports fields need more resistant turf and extra stability. Indoor projects and stairways are usually cheaper than outdoor installation because the surface is smaller.
FAQ about the cost of artificial grass
Is artificial grass worth having?
With a 10- to 25-year warranty, artificial turf is durable, looks and feels like natural grass, and is weatherproof. You don’t need a mower, it doesn’t run up the water bill, and lawn maintenance is almost completely unnecessary.
On average, you pay $6,365 to install artificial turf and about $653 to install real sod on a 500-square-foot yard. A $5,715 difference seems like a lot if you don’t count natural lawn care cost, which is between $1,500 to $6,000 a year if you get a monthly lawn care plan. Within 4-5 years of installing artificial turf, you’ll get your money back in savings.
What are the downfalls of artificial turf?
While the lifetime cost of synthetic turf is cheaper, you have to pay more upfront to install and replace it. Artificial turf has other downfalls, too, including:
- Turf can get hot in extreme heat, although infill helps keep the material cooler.
- If you go for cheaper brands, it might not look very natural.
- If you don’t buy the right height, there is nothing you can do about it. You can’t mow it.
How do I maintain my artificial grass?
While an artificial lawn is very low maintenance, it still requires some upkeep. This includes cleaning pets’ waste and debris, removing leaves, and applying weed killer. After a few years, you might have to replenish the infill. You can also get the margins tucked back in and repair ripples and undulations if needed.
Leaf removal costs are similar for natural and artificial grass, with an average of $155 to $460 per season. If you decide to remove debris yourself, remember that a leaf vacuum is never an option on artificial turf. It sucks up the infill sand.
Your yard also will need brushing from time to time with a push broom or a power broom. Here’s an article that can teach you how to clean artificial grass.
Need a pro to install artificial turf?
Installing an artificial lawn typically costs $2,725 to $10,000, with a national average cost of $6,365. You can expect to pay from $5.45 to $20 per square foot, with higher prices for curved lawns and large yards.
While you can save up to $4,610 on a 500-square-foot yard by installing the turf yourself, it’s a lot of work, and your lawn might turn out lumpy if you’re not careful. A professional can help you choose suitable materials and make sure your yard turns out perfect. Find a pro near you and get a quote for your lawn size and shape.
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image Credit: MartinPrescott | Canva Pro | License
