Lawn care services typically cost between $80 and $180 per month, depending on your lawn size and the services you need. A simple mowing service costs around $30 per week, while full-service care—including fertilization, aeration, and weed control—can be $150 or more per month.
Keeping your lawn green and healthy takes time and effort. While some homeowners enjoy DIY lawn care, professional services save time and ensure your grass gets the right nutrients, weed control, and maintenance for year-round curb appeal.
In this guide, we’ll break down lawn care pricing, what affects the cost, and how to save money on professional services.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Lawn Care Pricing at a Glance
💰 Average Monthly Cost: $80–$180
💰 Basic Lawn Mowing: $30 per week / $120 per month
💰 Full-Service Lawn Care (mowing, fertilization, weed control): $150–$200 per month
📌 One-Time Lawn Care Costs:
- Lawn Fertilization: $50–$150 per treatment (3–4 times per year)
- Aeration: $125–$250 (improves soil health)
- Dethatching: $150–$300 (removes dead grass buildup)
- Overseeding: $300–$800 (thickens sparse lawns)
- Weed Control: $60–$100 per application
- Pest Control (mosquitoes, grubs, fleas): $80–$150 per visit
- Tree & Shrub Care: $300–$600 per visit
📌 Seasonal Services:
- Spring/Fall Lawn Cleanup (leaf & debris removal): $150–$300
- Winterization (fall fertilization & irrigation system prep): $80–$200
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Factors That Affect Lawn Care Costs
Lawn care costs vary based on several factors. Your total bill could be higher or lower than the averages outlined above, depending on these key considerations:
1. Services Needed
The more treatments you schedule, the higher your costs. Basic mowing starts at $30 per week, while full-service plans (fertilization, aeration, and weed control) can cost $150+ per month. Bundling multiple services can increase the price but also improve lawn health more effectively.
2. Lawn Size
Most pricing assumes a 10,000 sq. ft. yard (about ¼ acre). If your property is larger, expect higher costs for labor, fertilizers, and treatments. Lawn care companies typically charge per square foot or acre.
3. Lawn Features and Accessibility
A simple, open lawn is easier and cheaper to maintain. If your yard has fences, trees, garden beds, or slopes, it may require extra time, labor, or specialized equipment, increasing the cost.
4. Labor Costs
Lawn care pros typically charge hourly for services like aeration, pest control, and dethatching. Hiring multiple technicians or specialized experts will raise labor costs, but you may get discounts for scheduling multiple services at once.
5. Location and Climate
Your region affects both pricing and service needs. Warmer climates may require more frequent watering and pest control, while cooler regions may need winterization treatments. Rural homeowners may pay higher travel fees for services.
6. Grass Type and Condition
- Overgrown lawns may require an initial cleanup fee before standard mowing prices apply.
- Different grass types need specific fertilizers, pH adjustments, and weed treatments—some of which are more expensive.
7. Experience and Reputation of the Provider
Hiring a well-known company like TruGreen may cost more, but it often comes with insurance, guarantees, and expert-backed treatments. Local lawn care companies might offer lower prices but fewer guarantees.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Lawn Maintenance and Service Costs
Lawn care services range from basic mowing ($30 per week) to full-service maintenance ($150–$200 per month). Below is a breakdown of common lawn care services and their average costs.
Basic Lawn Maintenance
- Lawn Mowing – $30 per week ($120 per month)
- Weekly mowing in spring/summer, biweekly in fall. Larger yards cost more.
- Watering – $50–$75 per 10,000 sq. ft. (or $400 per acre)
- Useful for new grass or during hot summers.
- Edging – $20–$100
- Creates clean borders along sidewalks, driveways, and garden beds.
Lawn Health and Treatments
- Fertilization – $50–$150 per treatment (needed 3–4 times per year)
- Provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Aeration – $125–$250 per service
- Reduces soil compaction and improves water and nutrient absorption.
- Dethatching – $150–$300 per service
- Removes excess dead grass to promote healthy growth.
Seeding & Lawn Restoration
- Standard Seeding – $1,000 per 10,000 sq. ft.
- Used to grow new grass from bare soil.
- Overseeding – $300–$500 per 10,000 sq. ft.
- Fills in bare patches and thickens existing lawns.
Pest & Weed Control
- Pest Control (mosquitoes, fleas, grubs, etc.) – $80–$150 per visit
- Weed Control
- Pre-emergent (prevents weeds): $85–$100 per application
- Post-emergent (kills existing weeds): $60–$80 per application
Seasonal Services
- Leaf Removal (fall cleanup) – $150+ per 10,000 sq. ft.
- Winterization (fall fertilization & irrigation prep) – $80–$200
Tree and Landscaping Services
Tree Trimming – $300 per small tree, $600+ for large trees
Landscaping Design – $500 to $10,000+
Additional Costs and Considerations
Beyond basic service fees, several factors can influence the final cost of lawn care. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Travel Fees
Most lawn care companies charge a $15–$100 travel fee depending on how far they are from your home. Rural homeowners may pay more for service.
2. Package Discounts
Many companies offer discounted packages for bundling multiple services or committing to seasonal care plans. This can lower costs compared to booking one-time treatments.
3. Preventative Maintenance
Routine upkeep (like aeration and fertilization) helps prevent costly lawn problems and reduces the need for expensive fixes down the line.
4. Lawn Health Issues
If your lawn has pest infestations, fungal diseases, or severe weeds, expect to pay more for specialized treatments. Issues like brown patch disease, snow mold, and lawn grubs often require multiple treatments, increasing costs.
Why Hire a Lawn Care Professional?
A lush, green lawn takes time and effort. While DIY lawn care is an option, hiring a professional saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures better results. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
1. Saves You Money in the Long Run
- A professional prevents common lawn care mistakes like over-fertilizing, improper mowing, or using the wrong weed treatments—all of which can cost more to fix than hiring an expert in the first place.
- They use commercial-grade products that are more effective and longer-lasting than most store-bought options.
2. Saves Time and Effort
- Lawn care is time-consuming — mowing, fertilizing, aerating, weed control, and seasonal treatments all require ongoing attention.
- Professionals handle the work quickly and efficiently, so you can spend your free time enjoying your yard rather than maintaining it.
3. Boosts Curb Appeal
Lawn care pros use soil tests and science-backed treatments to keep your grass looking its best year-round.
A well-maintained lawn increases property value and enhances curb appeal.
Hiring a Professional Vs. DIY Lawn Care
Homeowners can choose between full-service lawn care, DIY solutions, or hybrid options. Each has pros and cons, depending on your budget, time, and lawn care needs.
Professional Lawn Care (TruGreen & Similar Services)
- Best for: Homeowners who want expert care, guaranteed results, and minimal effort.
- Pros:
- Professional soil analysis and science-backed treatments.
- Saves time and effort.
- Includes services like aeration, pest control, and disease prevention.
- Cons:
- More expensive than DIY options.
- Requires ongoing service contracts for best results.
📌 Top Pick: TruGreen offers custom lawn care plans, covering everything from fertilization and weed control to tree and shrub care.
[Read our TruGreen Review to learn more.]DIY Lawn Care (Sunday Lawn Care and Other Kits)
- Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who enjoy hands-on lawn care.
- Pros:
- More affordable than full-service lawn care.
- Control over the products and schedule.
- Some services, like Sunday Lawn Care, provide pre-measured fertilizers tailored to your region.
- Cons:
- Requires time, effort, and knowledge.
- No professional soil testing or expert recommendations.
- Results may take longer compared to professional treatments.
📌 Top Pick: Sunday Lawn Care delivers kid- and pet-safe fertilizers and treatments directly to your door.
Read our detailed Sunday Lawn Care Review to find out more.
DIY Vs. Professional Costs
Both DIY and professional lawn care have upfront and long-term costs. While DIY lawn care is cheaper initially, hiring a professional can save money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes.
DIY Lawn Care Costs
- Upfront Costs: $150–$500 (lawn mower, fertilizer, weed control, and tools).
- Ongoing Costs: $200–$600 per year for fertilizers, weed treatments, and pest control.
- Potential Hidden Costs: If you misapply fertilizers, overwater, or fail to prevent lawn diseases, you may spend extra fixing damage.
📌 Best for: Homeowners who enjoy yard work and want to save money.
Professional Lawn Care Costs
- Upfront Costs: $80–$180 per month (varies by service plan).
- Ongoing Costs: Typically higher than DIY, but includes expert treatments, soil testing, and guaranteed results.
- Long-Term Savings: Prevents costly damage from misapplied treatments, pest infestations, or lawn diseases.
📌 Best for: Homeowners who want a hassle-free, consistently healthy lawn.
Best Ways to Save Money on Lawn Care
Lawn care can get expensive, but smart planning and maintenance can help keep costs down. Here’s how:
1. Get Multiple Quotes
- Compare at least three lawn care companies to find the best value—not just the lowest price.
2. Sign Up for a Service Plan
- Many companies offer discounts for seasonal or yearly contracts, which are cheaper than one-time services.
3. Watch for Deals and Promotions
- Look for spring discounts, holiday specials, or first-time customer offers from lawn care providers.
4. Handle Basic Maintenance Yourself
- Mowing, watering, and spot-treating weeds can reduce the need for costly professional services.
5. Prevent Problems Early
- Investing in aeration, fertilization, and weed control can prevent bigger, more expensive issues later.
Lawn Care Company Comparison
| Company | Cost | Plan Options | BBB Rating | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TruGreen | $$$$ | Five plans + a la carte services | A+ | ⭐ 4.9/5 |
| Sunday | $$ | Three plans (DIY-focused) | NR | ⭐ 4.7/5 |
| LawnBright | $$ | Customized plans | NR | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
| Lawn Doctor | $$$$ | One-time services only | B+ | ⭐ 4.0/5 |
| Weed Man | $$$ | One plan + a la carte options | A- | ⭐ 3.8/5 |
Want to see which of these companies is best to tackle your lawn care? Check out these company comparisons for more information:
Final Thoughts
A healthy, green lawn doesn’t take care of itself—it requires consistent maintenance. While DIY lawn care is an option, it can be time-consuming and challenging to get professional-level results. That’s why many homeowners turn to trusted lawn care services for expert treatments and long-term savings.
For homeowners looking for professional lawn care, TruGreen is our top recommendation. With customizable plans, proven science-backed treatments, and a satisfaction guarantee, it’s a reliable choice for keeping your lawn in top shape year-round.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Care Costs
Is TruGreen worth the cost?
TruGreen’s plans cost more than DIY lawn care, but they include expert soil analysis, professional-grade treatments, and a satisfaction guarantee. Homeowners who struggle with persistent weeds, patchy grass, or lawn diseases often find that TruGreen’s services lead to healthier lawns faster than DIY methods.
If you’re on a budget, consider TruMaintenance ($$) for basic fertilization and weed control. For full-service care, TruSignature ($$$$) covers trees, shrubs, and garden beds as well.
💡 Pro Tip: If your lawn is already in decent shape, you may only need seasonal treatments, which can lower your costs.
Which TruGreen plan is best for me?
- Basic Care (TruMaintenance) – Best for lawns that only need fertilization and weed control.
- Comprehensive Care (TruComplete, TruHealth) – Adds aeration and overseeding for a thicker, healthier lawn.
- All-Inclusive (TruSignature) – Includes tree and shrub care, ideal for homes with large landscapes.
- Eco-Friendly (TruNatural) – Uses organic treatments, good for homes with kids and pets.
If you’re unsure, TruGreen offers free lawn assessments to recommend the right plan.
How much should I budget for lawn fertilization?
Fertilization costs $100–$150 per 5,000 sq. ft. Most homeowners need 3–4 treatments per year, so expect to spend $300–$600 annually. Larger lawns and premium fertilizers (like organic options) can increase costs.
💡 Best time to fertilize? Early spring and fall for cool-season grass, late spring and summer for warm-season grass.
What’s the best DIY lawn fertilizer?
For general use, look for a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. If your lawn has specific needs:
- High Nitrogen (e.g., 20-5-10) – Best for boosting green growth.
- High Phosphorus (e.g., 10-20-10) – Good for new grass seed and root growth.
- Slow-release formulas – Last longer and reduce the risk of over-fertilizing.
💡 Pro Tip: Test your soil before buying fertilizer. Many lawns don’t need phosphorus, and applying too much can harm the environment.
