If your yard looks tired or patchy, you might be thinking about starting fresh. But before you grab your shovel, the first question most homeowners ask is simple: how much does it cost for a new lawn?
At Robert’s Complete Care, we help homeowners and businesses create healthy, beautiful lawns every season. The cost for a new lawn depends on several factors like grass type, soil condition, and lawn size. Below, we’ll break down real pricing insights so you can plan your project with confidence.
What’s the Average Cost to Install a New Lawn?
In Whittier and across Southern California, installing a new lawn typically costs between $4,000 and $9,000 for an average 2,000-square foot yard.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Sod installation: $1.50–$3.50 per sq. ft. (includes prep and labor)
- Seeding: $0.50–$1.50 per sq. ft.
- Artificial turf: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
The total lawn installation cost depends on your soil preparation needs, irrigation setup, and the types of grass lawns you choose. Sod is more expensive upfront but delivers instant results, while seeding costs less but takes patience.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost of a New Lawn
The cost of a new lawn isn’t one-size-fits all. Several factors influence how much you’ll pay:
Lawn size: Larger lawns cost more overall but less per square foot due to bulk pricing.
Type of grass: Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine are common in Whittier. Each variety has its own price and maintenance needs.
Soil condition: Poor or compacted soil needs grading and topsoil, which adds to the cost.
Labor rates: Professional crews in California typically charge $60–$100 per hour for installation and prep work.
Access and slope: If your property is hard to reach or sloped, more labor and equipment are needed.
These details help determine the true lawn installation cost for your property.
Cost Breakdown by Lawn Installation Method
Homeowners can choose from three main methods to install a new lawn: seeding, sodding, or turf. Here’s what each involves and how much it costs.
1. Seeding
- Cost: $0.50–$1.50 per sq. ft.
- Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners
- Pros: Affordable and easy to DIY
- Cons: Takes 2–3 months to fully grow
2. Sodding
- Cost: $1.50–$3.50 per sq. ft
- Best for: Quick results and erosion control
- Pros: Instant green lawn, fewer weeds
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, needs daily watering at first
3. Artificial Turf
- Cost: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
- Best for: Low-maintenance or commercial properties
- Pros: No mowing, minimal water use
- Cons: High initial investment, can get hot in sun
For commercial properties, commercial lawn care services often recommend turf because it saves on long-term maintenance and water costs in California’s dry climate.
New Lawn Cost by Size and Square Footage
Lawn installation is often priced by square footage. Here’s a quick reference for Whittier homeowners:
| Lawn Size | Seeding | Sod | Artificial Turf |
| 500 sq. ft. | $250–$750 | $750–$1,750 | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $500–$1,500 | $1,500–$3,500 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $1,000–$3,000 | $3,000–$7,000 | $12,000–$24,000 |
These are average figures, but actual costs depend on the types of grass lawns and any site prep needed.
Cost by Type of Grass or Turf Material
Choosing the right grass is key to balancing beauty and budget. Here’s what Whittier homeowners typically pay:
- Bermuda grass: $0.35–$0.85 per sq. ft. (heat-tolerant and durable)
- Tall fescue: $0.40–$0.90 per sq. ft. (lush and drought-resistant)
- St. Augustine: $0.60–$1.10 per sq. ft. (great for shaded areas)
- Zoysia: $0.50–$1.20 per sq. ft. (soft texture, slow-growing)
- Artificial turf: $6–$12 per sq. ft. (long lifespan, minimal upkeep)
Different lawn grass types have varying installation and maintenance needs. Bermuda is popular for sunny spots, while fescue works best in shaded or cooler areas.
Labor Costs vs. DIY Lawn Installation
Some homeowners try DIY seeding or sod installation to save money. However, hiring professionals often pays off in the long run.
- DIY cost: About 40–50% cheaper, but you handle soil prep, irrigation setup, and leveling.
- Professional labor cost: $1.00–$2.50 per sq. ft., depending on site conditions.
Professional installers, like Robert’s Complete Care, ensure even grading, proper irrigation, and healthy soil saving you from costly mistakes later. For larger properties or commercial lawn care, pro installation guarantees a consistent and polished look.
Additional Costs and Considerations to Plan For
Beyond basic installation, a few hidden costs can affect your total lawn installation cost:
- Irrigation system installation: The cost to install lawn sprinkler system ranges from $2,000–$4,000 depending on size.
- Soil improvement or topsoil: Adding quality soil can cost $20–$40 per cubic yard.
- Debris removal or grading: Expect $500–$1,200 for clearing and leveling.
- Edging and borders: Decorative edging costs $5–$15 per linear foot.
- Pool fill-ins: The cost to fill in a swimming pool and convert it to lawn space ranges from $5,000–$10,000.
Adding these costs upfront prevents surprises once your project begins.
Regional Price Differences for New Lawn Installation
Whittier’s warm, dry climate affects pricing and grass selection. Because of California’s water restrictions and labor rates, costs are slightly higher than the national average.
- Southern California average: $2–$4 per sq. ft. for sod
- National average: $1.50–$3 per sq. ft.
However, professional Lawn Installation Services in Whittier use region-specific materials and drought-tolerant grasses, ensuring better longevity and lower water bills.
How to Save Money on New Lawn Installation
You can still achieve a lush green yard without overspending. Here’s how:
- Choose the right method: Seeding is cheaper than sod.
- Prep the soil yourself: Basic clearing can save labor costs.
- Install in cooler months: Spring or fall installations need less water.
- Compare quotes: Get at least three estimates from local pros.
- Opt for drought-tolerant grass: Reduces water bills long-term.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Old Lawn
You might not always need a full replacement. But these signs mean it’s time:
- Bare or brown patches that won’t recover
- Pest or disease damage across most of the yard
- Water runoff or poor soil drainage
- Repeated weed growth despite treatment
If these problems persist, replacing the lawn can restore beauty and value to your home.
Get a Professional Lawn Installation Estimate in Whittier, CA
If you’re ready to invest in a fresh, healthy lawn, Robert’s Complete Care offers expert guidance and free estimates. Our team specializes in lawn installation cost planning, irrigation systems, and soil preparation.
We handle everything from old grass removal to irrigation setup so your yard stays green year-round. Contact us our friendly team to request your Lawn Installation Services in Whittier estimate today.
Conclusion
The cost of a new lawn in Whittier, CA varies by size, method, and materialsbut with the right plan, you can achieve a lush, lasting result within your budget.
Partnering with Robert’s Complete Care ensures your new lawn is properly installed, irrigated, and ready to thrive in California’s climate. Whether you’re installing sod, seed,
FAQs
What’s the most affordable way to install a new lawn?
Seeding is the cheapest method, costing $0.50–$1.50 per sq. ft., but it takes time to grow.
How long does it take to install new sod?
Most sod lawns are installed in one to two days and ready to use within two weeks.
Which type of grass grows best in Whittier?
Bermuda and tall fescue perform well due to their drought tolerance and resilience.
Can I convert my old pool area into a lawn?
Yes. The cost to fill in a swimming pool and install new grass is $5,000–$10,000 depending on size.
Is artificial turf a good investment?
For low-maintenance yards or commercial lawn care, turf offers long-term savings despite higher upfront costs.
