Estimate mowing, fertilization, aeration & full-service costs by yard size
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⚠️ These are rough estimates based on 2026 U.S. national averages. Actual prices vary by region, lawn condition, and provider.
In 2026, professional lawn mowing typically costs $40 to $80 per visit for an average-sized yard (5,000 to 10,000 sq ft). Smaller yards under 3,000 sq ft may cost $30 to $50, while larger yards over 15,000 sq ft can run $80 to $150+ per visit. Prices vary by region, grass condition, and included services.
Full-service lawn care — including mowing, fertilization, weed control, and aeration — typically costs $150 to $400 per month during the growing season. For a 5,000 sq ft yard, expect around $200 to $300 per month. Annual costs range from $1,200 to $4,000 depending on yard size and service level.
Lawn care cost is primarily based on lawn size (per square foot or per acre), service type (mowing is cheapest, full service is most expensive), and visit frequency. Most pros charge $0.01 to $0.02 per square foot for mowing. Fertilization is charged per application ($50-$150), and aeration runs $100-$250 per visit.
Lawn fertilization typically costs $50 to $150 per application, with most lawns needing 4 to 6 applications per year. Annual fertilization costs range from $200 to $800. Some companies bundle fertilization with weed control for $400 to $800 per year.
Core aeration typically costs $100 to $250 per visit for an average-sized yard. Most lawns benefit from aeration once or twice per year (spring and fall). The cost depends on lawn size, soil compaction, and whether overseeding is included.
DIY mowing can save $40 to $80 per visit, but requires purchasing and maintaining a mower ($150-$500 for a push mower, $1,000-$3,000 for a riding mower), plus fuel, oil, and your time. For small yards, DIY is cost-effective. For larger yards or if you value your time, professional service may be worth the cost.
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Estimates only based on 2026 national averages. Full disclaimer · Terms
Lawn care costs vary widely depending on your yard size, the services you need, and how often you want them. In 2026, the average American homeowner spends between $1,200 and $4,000 per year on professional lawn care. A standard mowing service for a 5,000 sq ft yard runs $40 to $80 per visit, while full-service packages — including mowing, fertilization, weed control, and aeration — cost $150 to $400 per month during the growing season.
This calculator helps you estimate costs based on your specific lawn size and service preferences. Simply enter your yard area, select the services you need (mowing, fertilization, aeration, or full service), choose your visit frequency, and get instant estimates for per-visit, monthly, and annual costs.
All estimates are based on 2026 U.S. national averages. Actual prices in your area may vary by 20% or more depending on local labor rates, grass type, terrain, and the specific provider you choose.
Mowing: The most common lawn care service. Professional mowing costs $0.01 to $0.02 per square foot, with a typical visit running $40 to $80 for an average yard. Most companies mow weekly or biweekly during the growing season (April through October), totaling 14 to 28 visits per year.
Fertilization: Lawn fertilization costs $50 to $150 per application, with most lawns needing 4 to 6 applications per year. Many providers bundle fertilization with weed control for $400 to $800 annually. Fertilization ensures proper nutrient balance for healthy grass growth.
Aeration: Core aeration relieves soil compaction and promotes root growth. It costs $100 to $250 per visit and is typically done once or twice per year (spring and/or fall). Aeration is often paired with overseeding for an additional $50 to $150.
Full Service: Includes mowing, fertilization, weed control, aeration, and sometimes pest management. Full-service packages cost $150 to $400 per month, or $1,200 to $4,000 per year. This is the most comprehensive option and often the best value for homeowners who want a pristine lawn without managing multiple providers.
Hiring a professional lawn care service can save you significant time — most homeowners spend 1 to 2 hours per week on mowing alone. Over a 28-week growing season, that's 28 to 56 hours saved. At $25/hour, the time value alone justifies $700 to $1,400 of the service cost.
On the other hand, DIY lawn care requires upfront equipment costs: a push mower ($150-$500), trimmer ($80-$200), and optional fertilization supplies ($100-$300/year). If you already own equipment and enjoy the work, DIY can save $1,000 to $3,000 per year for a typical yard.
The break-even point depends on your yard size and how much you value your free time. For small yards under 3,000 sq ft, DIY is usually cheaper. For yards over 10,000 sq ft or busy professionals, hiring a service is often the better choice. Use our calculator to compare the annual cost of professional service against your DIY expenses.
Several factors influence how much you'll pay for lawn care beyond just yard size. Understanding these can help you get more accurate estimates and compare quotes effectively: