As a homeowner in Texas or anywhere in the Southern U.S., chances are you’ve considered switching to artificial turf—whether it’s to beat the heat, escape the constant mowing, or give your pets a mud-free play zone. But once you start looking into it, one question always pops up: How much does artificial turf cost?
And here’s the honest truth: turf pricing isn’t just about square footage. It’s about the value packed into each layer, from the type of turf to the prep work beneath it. What’s more, the Southern climate—hello clay soil and sweltering summers—plays a big role in determining what your project will require.
In this guide, we break down artificial turf cost by tier and project type, so you can know exactly what you’re paying for—and where the real savings kick in.
What Impacts Artificial Turf Cost?
Turf pricing can range widely depending on several key factors. Here’s a breakdown of what drives the final number.
Square Footage & Site Conditions
More square footage typically brings down the price per square foot thanks to bulk efficiencies. But it’s not just about how big your yard is—it’s the shape, too. Turf is typically sold in rolls that are 15 feet wide and 100 feet long. Irregular shapes require more precise cuts and can influence the overall price to achieve a custom fit.
Site conditions and the preparation needed for a successful install also impacts artificial turf cost. Areas on an incline, soil with heavy clay or limestone, or poor drainage may require extra prep work to ensure your turf lasts and drains properly.
Quick Tip: Southern yards with tight corners or sloped terrain may see higher pricing due to more labor-intensive installs.
Turf Quality & Features
Not all turf is created equal. Lower-end products may look good initially, but often lack durability, UV protection, and pet resistance.
Higher-end turf options include:
- Denser blade structure for a more realistic look
- Cooling infills to help reduce surface temperature
- Antimicrobial protection for pet-heavy households
Quick Tip: Be sure to ask for official lab results for lead testing! Many installers use cheap turf that contains lead, despite offering bogus certifications that their product is lead-free.
Labor and Additional Materials
Installation is where great turf becomes a forever lawn, or where corner-cutting causes future headaches.
A proper install in the South includes:
- Base excavation and removal of organic material
- Compaction layers to prevent settling
- Drainage solutions to combat Southern humidity and flash floods
Additional materials, from specialty cushioning infill to extra equipment and labor required for hard-to-reach spots, will also impact your turf pricing.
Quick Tip: Cutting corners here? Expect pooling, ripples, and regrets down the road. This is where Lone Star Turf’s warranty and expert install sets us apart.
Turf Pricing by Tier: What You Get for Your Budget
Budget Turf Pricing ($8–$10 per sq ft)
Best for low-traffic areas where aesthetics matter more than performance.
- Basic turf varieties
- Limited drainage solutions
- Minimal base prep
Great for: Decorative areas, side strips, or between-paver greens.
Mid-Range Turf Pricing ($11–$13 per sq ft)
The most popular option for Southern families and pet owners.
- High-quality turf with pet- and kid-safe infill
- Specialty sub-base and drainage prep
- Added design features (pavers, simple landscaping, and more)
Great for: Playgrounds, backyards, pool surrounds.
Premium Turf Pricing ($14–$17+ per sq ft)
Custom jobs and high-traffic zones need premium solutions.
- Top-tier turf with extra durability and realism
- Enhanced drainage (French drains, weed barriers, and more)
- Complex layout designs (slopes, curves, putting greens)
Great for: Putting greens, estates, schools, daycare yards, commercial properties.
Artificial Turf vs. Real Grass: A Cost Comparison
We get it—turf can seem expensive upfront. But the numbers tell a different story over time.
| Expense | Real Grass (Annual) | Artificial Turf (One-Time) |
| Water (avg Southern use) | $600–$1,200 | $0 |
| Fertilizer + Pesticides | $300–$500 | $0 |
| Lawn Service | $1,000–$1,500 | $0 |
| Time Spent (avg 60 hrs) | Priceless | Priceless |
| Total 4-Year Cost | $7,600–$12,800 | $10,000–$13,000 (avg install) |
For most Southern homeowners, the break-even point is around 4 years—and the benefits only grow from there.
Maintenance: What’s Included in the Turf Cost Long-Term?
Turf is low-maintenance, not maintenance-free.
Here’s what to expect to keep it looking fresh:
- Monthly: Use a leaf blower or stiff broom to remove debris
- Weekly (with pets): Hose down spots with Simple Green or Turf Balm
- Quarterly: Fluff blades in high-traffic areas with a power broom
No matter how minimal or elaborate your artificial turf installation is, you will instantly get hours back each weekend and save thousands of dollars annually.
Why Turf Pricing Varies by Installer
We’ve all seen the Craigslist special: $6/sq ft turf with “free install.” Trust us—there’s always a catch. Here’s why not all turf contractors are created equal.
What Sets Lone Star Turf Apart
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, surprise costs, or bait-and-switch upsells
- Premium Products: We don’t white-label cheap turf. You’ll know exactly what’s going in your yard
- Experienced Crews: Every job is handled by trained turf specialists with real construction experience
- Industry-Leading Warranty: 16 years on both turf and installation. No fine print.
We’re also proudly Texas-owned, family-run, and deeply committed to honest work and community trust.
“If it’s not done right, we fix it. No excuses.” That’s how we’ve earned our reputation.
Know Your Turf Pricing—Then Pick the Right Partner
Artificial turf cost isn’t just a number. It’s a reflection of quality, prep work, service, and long-term savings. Whether you’re transforming a backyard, making a space pet-friendly, or building your dream putting green, understanding turf pricing by tier helps you get the most for your investment.
👉 If it sounds too good to be true—it probably is. Cheap turf comes with hidden costs, patchy results, and zero support when things go wrong.
Lone Star Turf gives you real numbers, honest answers, and Southern-built service that stands up to heat, kids, and pets alike.
Curious What Turf Would Cost in Your Yard?
Let’s talk. Get a free, no-pressure turf pricing estimate for your space—and see real-life before-and-afters from homes right here in your town.