Lawn Care Cost Calculator
Estimate your annual lawn care costs. Enter your lawn size and service needs to see pricing for mowing, fertilization, aeration, weed control, and more — with DIY vs professional comparisons.
How Much Does Lawn Care Cost?
Professional lawn care costs $100-$400 per month or $1,200-$4,800 annually for a typical lawn (5,000-10,000 sq ft). Basic mowing services start at $30-$80 per visit. Full-service packages including mowing, fertilization, weed control, and aeration cost $2,000-$5,000 per year. DIY lawn care costs 40-60% less but requires equipment investment and time. Lawn size is the biggest cost factor, with prices typically calculated per 1,000 square feet.
Lawn Care Services Explained
Mowing is the core service, recommended weekly during growing season (April-October). Fertilization (4-6 applications per year) feeds the grass for healthy growth. Aeration removes soil plugs to improve water and nutrient penetration. Overseeding fills thin areas with new grass seed. Weed control includes pre-emergent (prevents weeds) and post-emergent (kills existing weeds) treatments. Grub control prevents lawn-destroying insects. Leaf removal in fall costs $100-$300 per visit for professional service.
DIY vs Professional Lawn Care
DIY saves 40-60% on service costs but requires equipment investment — a quality mower costs $300-$800, plus spreader, aerator rental, and products. DIY also requires 2-4 hours weekly during growing season. Professional services save time and often deliver better results through commercial-grade equipment and expertise. Many homeowners start DIY and switch to professional service for fertilization and weed control while continuing to mow themselves — a hybrid approach that balances cost and results.