Last Updated on January, 2025
Thinking of getting artificial grass? It’s a great option if you’re done with endless lawn maintenance and want a green yard year-round.
Let’s break down how much artificial grass costs and what factors can impact the total price of artificial grass installation, so you can plan your project without surprises.
Quick Summary
- Artificial grass costs vary based on quality, type, and installation, ranging from $2 to $10+ per square foot. Additional expenses include labor, infill, and base preparation, making total costs dependent on yard size and complexity.
- Key cost factors include turf material (e.g., polypropylene, nylon), blade shape, face weight, installation area shape, and accessibility. Extra landscaping needs, such as grass removal or edging, can also impact the price.
- While DIY can save on labor costs, professional installation ensures proper alignment and drainage, avoiding costly mistakes. Tools and prep work for DIY add upfront costs.
How Much Does it Cost on Average to Install Artificial Grass?
In Tucson, installing artificial grass typically depends on the type of synthetic grass you choose and whether you need professional turf installation. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Basic Artificial Grass: Starting around $2 per square foot, this is perfect for decorative, low-traffic areas.
- Mid-Range Synthetic Turf: Ranges from $4 to $6 per square ft, great for residential areas where most homeowners want a synthetic lush lawn.
- High-End Turf for Heavy Foot Traffic: Designed for areas like sports fields, this high-quality synthetic turf starts at $8 per square ft.
Installation Cost: Professional artificial grass installation adds another $3 to $8 per square foot. So, for a standard 500 sq. ft. synthetic lawn, you’re looking at a total cost of roughly $2,500 to $8,000 when all is said and done.
Cost Examples Based on Yard Size
To give you a clearer picture, here’s how synthetic turf costs shake out based on yard size:
- 50 sq. ft.: $100–$1,000 (materials and labor)
- 100 sq. ft.: $200–$2,000
- 500 sq. ft.: $1,000–$10,000
- 1,000 sq. ft.: $2,000–$20,000
The artificial turf cost calculator above covers typical installation costs, which include the price of artificial grass materials and labor costs per square foot.
Factors That Affect Artificial Grass Costs
- Turf Quality and Material Your actual cost of artificial grass varies by the quality and type of turf you pick. For example, polypropylene turf is a budget-friendly choice at $2-$6 cost per square foot, but if you’re after an artificial lawn that can handle heavy traffic, consider high-quality nylon turf at $5.50–$6.50 per square foot. Polyethylene grass is a mid-range option that strikes a nice balance between affordability and durability.
- Turf Face Weight Face weight measures the turf blades per square foot. Higher face weight makes for a more durable synthetic lawn but also adds about $1 per square ft for every 10 ounces. Most homeowners find a balance in choosing a face weight that fits their needs and their budget.
- Blade Shape Artificial grass blades come in different shapes. Some, like diamond and M-shaped blades, are durable and realistic but can increase your artificial turf costs. Softer blades like S or Omega shapes may cost less and feel like real grass underfoot.
- Installation Area Shape and Accessibility Have a yard with lots of curves or uneven areas? Complex installations add to the overall cost. You’ll also pay more if the area is difficult to access, as more labor and materials are required. For sloped terrains, installation costs will go up to ensure proper drainage.
- Base Layer and Infill To keep your artificial grass looking great and ensure proper drainage, you’ll need a solid base layer. Crushed rock adds around $0.30–$0.70 per sq ft, and a weed barrier fabric is another $0.25–$0.60 per sq ft. Infill materials, such as infill sand or silica sand, stabilize the artificial grass, adding $200 to $1,600 depending on lawn size. Antimicrobial infill is ideal if you’ve got pets on your artificial turf installation.
- Cost of Labor Cost of labor for professional installation generally accounts for about half the total cost of the artificial grass. You’re looking at $3-$10 per sq ft for labor, which covers turf removal, preparing your existing lawn, and installing artificial turf materials. If you’re handy with DIY artificial grass installations, you could save money on cost of labor.
- Additional Landscaping Needs Extras like grass removal, landscape edging, retaining walls, or pathways can increase your artificial grass installation cost significantly:
- Grass Removal: $1–$2.75 per square ft
- Tree Removal: $200–$2,000
- Edging: $1–$5 per linear foot for plastic, $5–$20 for metal edging
- Weed Barrier: $0.40–$0.80 per square ft
Useful guides:
DIY vs. Professional Artificial Grass Installation
A DIY artificial grass installation can save you on labor costs, which usually range from $3–$9 per square foot. However, DIYing isn’t for everyone! Tools, such as a sod cutter rental ($100) or compactor rental ($90), can add up if you’re not prepared.
Mistakes with turf installation can lead to costly repairs, especially if your turf doesn’t have proper drainage or alignment.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Drainage Installation: To prevent water pooling, drainage installation runs from $2,100 to $7,000.
- Irrigation: Installing an irrigation system costs between $2,400 and $4,200, but once you install artificial turf, you won’t need much irrigation for maintenance.
- Regrading: $1,000–$3,300 if your yard needs leveling before new artificial grass installation.
Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass
Pros
- Low Maintenance: No need for regular maintenance like mowing or watering, which saves on monthly lawn care.
- Water Conservation: Perfect for Tucson’s dry climate, synthetic grass stays green without any extra irrigation.
- Year-Round Aesthetics: Your synthetic green lawn stays lush no matter the season or weather.
- Durability: High-quality artificial turf can withstand heavy traffic without going bare or patchy.
- Allergy-Friendly: Since artificial lawns are pollen-free, they’re a solid choice if you have allergies.
- Pest-Free: Synthetic turf is less likely to attract pests, so you can skip the pesticides.
Cons
- High Initial Costs: The initial cost is higher than natural grass, but it often pays off over time with reduced maintenance costs.
- Artificial Appearance: Some people prefer the look of real grass lawn; while synthetic grass has come a long way, it’s still not the same as a natural lawn.
- Heat Retention: Artificial grass gets warm, especially in direct sunlight. Some grass fiber comes with heat-resistant features, but the extra cost is worth considering.
- Environmental Impact: Artificial turf is made from non-biodegradable materials, which can be a consideration for some.
- Complex Installation: Professional installers are often needed for a top-notch finish.
Ways to Save on the Costs of Artificial Grass
- Do the Prep Work Yourself: Clearing the soil, controlling weeds, and adding gravel can save $3–$5 per sq ft on labor costs.
- Opt for Budget-Friendly Materials: In low-traffic areas, affordable turf and infill materials are an option.
- Choose Recycled Turf: Recycled turf is available and can cut down on your upfront cost significantly.
Conclusion
Artificial grass offers a convenient, low-maintenance solution for Tucson homeowners looking to enjoy a lush lawn all year round. Yes, the initial costs of artificial grass can be high, but many find the benefits are well worth it over time.
Whether you’re considering DIY artificial grass or professional turf installation, knowing the costs of artificial grass and options can help you make the best choice.
For more personalized advice or a detailed artificial grass cost calculator, reach out to Artificial Grass Tucson Pros today!
Whether you’re planning synthetic lawns for your backyard or exploring artificial turf costs for commercial applications, we’re here to help you create the perfect outdoor space with artificial grass.
