How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost?
Artificial turf has become a popular alternative to natural grass, especially in states with water restrictions or extreme heat. Before you commit to a project, it helps to understand exactly where your money goes. Turf pricing varies significantly based on material grade, yard size, site conditions, and your geographic region.
Average Cost Ranges
For a professionally installed residential project, expect to pay $5-$20 per square foot. That range is wide because it includes everything from basic backyard turf to premium putting green installations. Here is a general breakdown:
| Project Type | Cost Per Sq Ft | 500 Sq Ft Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Lawn Replacement | $5-$10 | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Mid-Range Residential | $8-$14 | $4,000-$7,000 |
| Premium / Realistic Look | $12-$18 | $6,000-$9,000 |
| Putting Green | $15-$25 | $7,500-$12,500 |
| Pet Turf (with drainage) | $8-$15 | $4,000-$7,500 |
What Drives the Cost
Turf Material Quality
Turf ranges from $1 to $6 per square foot for the material alone. Budget turf has shorter fibers, lower density, and a less natural appearance. Mid-range products offer good density and realistic color variation. Premium turf features multi-toned blades, built-in thatch layers, and softer fiber technology designed to mimic natural grass closely.
Base Preparation
A proper base is non-negotiable. The existing lawn must be removed, the soil graded for drainage, and a compacted aggregate base (typically 3-4 inches of decomposed granite or crushed rock) installed. Base prep usually costs $2-$5 per square foot. Yards with poor drainage, slopes, or heavy clay soil require more work and cost more.
Infill
Infill is spread between the turf fibers to weigh them down, keep blades upright, and provide cushion. Standard silica sand infill is the most affordable option. Specialty infills like zeolite (for pet odor control) or acrylic-coated sand (for heat reduction) add $0.50-$2.00 per square foot. See our guide to turf infill types for a full comparison.
Labor
Professional installation labor typically runs $2-$6 per square foot. This covers layout, cutting, seaming, securing edges, and applying infill. Complex shapes, multiple seams, and tight spaces around landscaping increase labor time.
Additional Costs
- Weed barrier fabric: $0.25-$0.50 per square foot
- Edging or bender board: $2-$5 per linear foot
- Drainage systems (if needed): $500-$2,000 depending on scope
- Old lawn removal and disposal: $1-$3 per square foot
Regional Price Differences
Turf installation costs vary by region. Labor rates, material availability, and demand all play a role. Areas with water restrictions tend to have more competition among installers, which can moderate prices. States like Arizona, California, and Nevada have large turf installer markets and sometimes lower per-square-foot pricing due to high volume. In Texas and Florida, pricing is competitive in metro areas but may be higher in rural zones with fewer installers.
How to Get Accurate Estimates
- Get at least three written quotes that itemize materials, labor, base prep, and infill separately
- Ask what turf brand and product line is included — not all turf is equal
- Confirm whether old lawn removal is included in the price
- Ask about warranty coverage for both the turf material and the installation
- Be cautious of quotes significantly below the market range — they often cut corners on base preparation
Get Free Quotes from Local Installers
The best way to budget your turf project is to compare quotes from experienced installers in your area. Browse Turf Install Pros to find rated contractors in Texas, Arizona, California, Florida, and Nevada.
Related guides: How to Choose a Turf Installer · Turf Infill Types Explained · Artificial Turf Installation Cost Guide
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Browse All contractorsFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to turf a typical front yard?
A typical front yard of 500-1,000 square feet costs $5,000-$15,000 for professional artificial turf installation. This includes old lawn removal, base preparation, drainage, turf material, seaming, and infill. Smaller yards fall toward the lower end, while larger areas with complex shapes or slopes cost more.
Is artificial turf cheaper than natural grass over time?
In most cases, yes. While the upfront cost is higher, artificial turf eliminates ongoing expenses for water, mowing, fertilizer, pesticides, and reseeding. Most homeowners recoup the investment within 5-7 years, especially in drought-prone states where water bills are high.
What is the biggest cost factor in a turf installation?
The turf material itself is typically the largest single expense, accounting for 40-50% of the total project cost. However, base preparation (grading, compaction, decomposed granite or crushed rock) is the second biggest factor and should never be skimped on — poor base work leads to drainage problems and uneven surfaces.