Someone's hand holding the corner of some turf grass.

How Much Does Turf Grass Cost?

10 minutes

The cost of turf grass can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the type of grass, the size of the area needing coverage, and the location. In general, turf grass tends to be more expensive than other types of lawn cover, but it can also be more durable and require less maintenance. In this article, we will explore the various factors that can affect the cost of turf grass and provide some tips on how to get the best value for your money.

The cost of turf grass can range from as little as $0.50 per square foot for lower-quality grass to over $2.00 per square foot for high-end varieties. For example, a common type of turf grass known as Kentucky bluegrass can cost anywhere from $0.75 to $1.50 per square foot. On the other hand, a more premium variety like zoysia grass may cost $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot. On average, the cost of installing a complete turf grass lawn can range from $2.50 to $4.00 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project. This means that a typical 1,000-square-foot lawn can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $4,000 to install.

Different Types Of Turf Grass And What They Cost

The best type of turf grass to use for installation will depend on your specific needs and climate. Some types of grass are more durable and long-lasting than others. Others may be more suitable for specific climates or soil conditions. 

Some of the most popular types of turf grass include Kentucky Bluegrass, Daytona, Bermuda grass, and zoysia grass. Each of these types has its own unique characteristics and is best suited for specific purposes. 

Let’s start with Kentucky Bluegrass.

Kentucky Bluegrass 

The synthetic grass called “Kentucky Bluegrass” boasts a durable construction, thanks in part to its robust backing. Its blades are reinforced using advanced tuft bind technology, making it a sturdy option. It typically retails for $2 to $4 per square foot.

Daytona Grass

A synthetic grass named “Daytona Grass” is designed to mimic the look of natural grass, with its soft fibers and realistic combination of field and olive-green blades. It’s a great option for commercial or residential properties that receive moderate foot traffic, making it a great landscape alternative. The typical cost for this grass ranges from $2.50 to $3.50 per square foot.

Bermuda

Bermuda grass is a type of grass that boasts several advantages over other options. This includes superior color, texture, and density, as well as fewer seed heads and less susceptibility to disease. Its cost is relatively affordable, with a price range of $0.75 to $2.00 per square foot.

Zoysia 

Zoysia grass combines a soft-to-the-touch feel with lush green color and tight blade growth. Visually, zoysia is an extremely attractive wide-blade turf grass for any landscaping job. The average price is around $0.80 to $1.50 per square foot

Synthetic Turf Options

For synthetic turf, here are some more expensive but great options that will add a bigger price tag to your project cost. They are well worth it for a long-term option though.

Nylon Artificial Grass

The cost of nylon artificial grass can vary, with prices typically ranging from $5 to $6 per square foot. It can also be found for as low as $3 for more budget-friendly options and as high as $11 to $12 per square foot for premium choices.

Polypropylene Grass

Polypropylene artificial grass tends to cost less, with prices between $2.00 and $5.90 per square foot. It’s known for its soft and natural-like texture and can also be pretty durable.

Polyethylene Turf

When it comes to Polyethylene turf, it’s the most affordable option. Its cost ranges from $2.00 to $4.50 per square foot. It has a natural-like look and is soft to the touch but not as durable as nylon. This kind of artificial grass is suitable for places with less sunlight exposure and heat.

Where To Buy Turf Grass

It’s worth noting that the availability of certain types of turf grass will depend on your location. So, the best place to buy turf grass for your project may vary depending on where you live. Additionally, when buying, it is important to check the quality of the grass you buy, the time frame of the delivery, and possible options of warranty.

With that said, there are a number of places where you can buy turf grass. This depends on your location and the specific type of turf grass you are looking for. Some examples include the following options.

Local Garden Centers Or Nurseries 

These may carry a limited selection of turf grasses. But they can be a good option for small projects or for buying small quantities of grass.

Landscape Supply Companies 

These companies typically carry a wide variety of turf grasses and other landscaping materials. They may sell turf grass in bulk and can also provide delivery service.

Turf Farms 

These are specialized farms that grow turf grass for commercial and residential use. They may grow a variety of different types of grass and sell directly to customers. They may also sell to landscape supply companies or other distributors.

Online Retailers

Some companies sell turf grass online and ship it directly to customers. This can be a good option for people in more rural areas. It’s also a good option for those looking for a specific type of turf grass that is not widely available in their local area.

Home Improvement Stores

Some large home improvement stores carry turf grass. These types of stores may have more variety of some types of grass and might be easier to find.

What’s The Best Way To Maintain A Turf Grass Lawn On A Budget?

An overhead shot of a person's hands holding down some turf grass with some tools laying on the grass.
Some good work being done here.

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your turf grass looking its best and extending its lifespan. This includes regular watering, fertilizing, mowing, and removing weeds and debris. 

It’s important to water your grass deeply and infrequently, rather than watering it lightly every day. This helps promote deep root growth, which is essential for a healthy lawn. 

Fertilizing your grass regularly can also help keep it strong and healthy. But be sure to use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for turf grass to avoid damaging the grass. 

Mowing your grass at the proper height and frequency is also important, as cutting it too short can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to damage. Finally, be sure to remove weeds and debris from your lawn regularly to keep it looking its best.

A Personal Testament To The Importance Of Caring For Turf Grass

As someone who has experience maintaining a turf grass lawn, I can attest to the importance of this kind of proper care. Regular watering, fertilizing, mowing, and removing weeds and debris are all crucial for keeping your turf grass looking its best and extending its lifespan. 

In addition, I have found that aerating the lawn every 1-2 years and removing thatch can make a big difference in the health and appearance of the grass. And of course, it’s important to repair any damaged areas of the lawn as soon as possible to prevent the damage from spreading. 

Overall, proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of your turf grass and ensuring that it stays healthy and vibrant for as long as possible. It’s not difficult to maintain your turf lawn, it just takes time and is necessary for a long-lasting yard.

How Often Do You Have To Maintain Your Turf Grass Lawn?

The frequency of turf grass maintenance will depend on a number of factors. These include the type of grass, the climate in which it is grown, and the amount of wear and tear it receives. In general, water grass once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. I fertilized my turf grass every 4-6 weeks, for example. Depending on the specific fertilization schedule recommended for your grass type, that may vary. 

Mow your grass on a regular basis too, depending on the growth of the turf itself. Also, make sure to monitor your lawn as that is what truly determines if it will last long or not!

What’s The Cost To Have Turf Grass Installed?

As someone who has worked on turf grass installations in the past, I know that the cost of having turf grass installed can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Some of the most important factors that determine the cost of turf grass installation include: 

  • The size of the area that needs to be covered 
  • The type of soil that is present 
  • The type of turf grass that is being installed 
  • And any additional features or services that are required, such as grading or drainage installation

When I worked on turf grass installations, the rate I charged was generally determined by the size of the area that needed to be covered. For a small residential lawn, the cost of installation might be as low as $5 to $8 per square foot, whereas the cost of installing turf grass on a large commercial property or sports field could be $10 to $15 per square foot or more. Additionally, the cost could be affected by other factors. These include the type of soil, the type of turf grass being installed, additional services provided such as grading, and drainage systems.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of turf grass installation can vary greatly depending on the specific project and location. So, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple professionals before making a decision. Additionally, you should also consider the long-term maintenance cost as well as water usage and environmental factors

Why Does Turf Grass Cost What It Does?

Some of the most significant factors that determine the cost of turf grass include the type of grass, the location where it is grown, the time of year that it is purchased, and the quantity purchased.

Let’s start with the type of grass.

Type Of Grass

One of the main factors that affects the cost of turf grass is the type of grass. Some types of grass, such as nylon and Kentucky Bluegrass, are considered to be premium grasses and are more expensive than others, such as zoysia grass or Bermuda grass. 

Location Of The Grass

The location where the grass is grown also plays a role in determining its cost, as turf grass grown in regions with high labor and transportation costs will be more expensive than turf grass grown in more rural areas. 

The Time Of Year

Additionally, the time of year that the turf grass is purchased can also affect its cost, as prices are typically higher during the peak growing season and lower during the off-season. 

The Quantity

Finally, purchasing larger quantities of turf grass can also result in lower costs per square foot, as bulk discounts are often available.

What’s The Average Price Of Installing Turf Grass On An Entire Lawn?

As a rough estimate, the average cost of installing a 1,000-square-foot lawn could be around $5,000 to $8,000, while the cost of installing a 5,000-square-foot lawn could be around $20,000 to $30,000.

Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and actual costs may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. The cost of installation could be lower too if you go for low-maintenance grass such as Bermuda grass and higher if you want a premium grass such as Kentucky Bluegrass. Additional services such as grading, soil preparation, and drainage installation may also affect the overall cost.

In that regard, it’s important to obtain quotes from multiple professionals and to compare prices for different types of turf grass and installation methods. Some landscaping companies also offer financing options. So, this could also be a good option to consider if you are on a budget.

In Conclusion: How Much Does Turf Grass Cost?

The cost of turf grass can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the type of grass, the size of the area to be covered, and the complexity of the installation project. Proper maintenance is also crucial for extending the lifespan of turf grass and ensuring it stays looking its best. 

By choosing the right type of grass for your specific needs and climate, and following proper care guidelines, you can help ensure your turf grass lasts as long as possible and provides you with the beautiful, green lawn you desire. Overall, the cost of turf grass may be higher upfront, but it can be a worthwhile investment in the long run due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.

So, what do you think about turf grass and what it costs? What kind of grass are you looking to get? Let us know in the comments below!