The average cost to seed a lawn is between $0.09 and $0.19 per square foot, with most homeowners spending between $592 and $1,768. However, the total cost of your lawn seeding project will still depend on the size and complexity of the job.
When budgeting for this landscaping project, you also will need to consider other factors like the cost of seeds, fertilization, and other lawn care services that may affect how much you’ll spend on your lawn.
In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:
- Average Costs to Seed a Lawn in 2024
- Lawn Seeding Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
- Cost to Seed a Lawn by Location
- FAQ
Average Costs to Seed a Lawn in 2024
| National Average Cost | $1,122 |
| Typical Price Range | $592 – $1,768 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $90 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $2,940 |
The national average cost to seed a lawn is around $1,122, but the total cost of your lawn seeding project may range from as little as $90 to as much as $2,940. This usually includes the grass seeds, the necessary equipment to spread them, and labor fees charged by the lawn care pro.
While the type of grass you choose will significantly impact the cost – for example, fine fescue will cost less than a Kentucky bluegrass lawn – your yard’s complexity also can affect the overall cost of lawn seeding. If you have difficult terrain or need to install an irrigation system, you may spend more.
Lawn Seeding Cost Estimator by Size
The size of your lawn greatly affects the overall cost of your seeding project. Considering that the average cost of lawn seeding is around $0.09 to $0.19 per square foot, you can expect to pay anywhere from $90 to $190 for a small lawn measuring 1,000 square feet.
For a ⅛-acre lawn, a lawn seeding project may cost as little as $490 on average, while a full acre of land will run you as high as $8,276, including the cost of materials and labor.
| Lawn Size | Average Cost (Labor and Materials) |
| 1,000 square feet | $90 – $190 |
| ⅛ acre (5,445 sq. ft.) | $490 – $1,035 |
| ¼ acre (10,890 sq. ft.) | $980 – $2,069 |
| ½ acre (21,780 sq. ft.) | $1,960 – $4,138 |
| ¾ acre (32,670 sq. ft.) | $2,940 – $6,207 |
| 1 acre (43,560 sq. ft.) | $3,920 – $8,276 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
While the size of your yard is the main factor in determining the cost of seeding or reseeding your lawn, other cost factors can influence the total price, including the type of grass, seeding method, and labor rates.
Grass Type
Different types of grass seeds have different costs. For example, warm-season grass seeds like bermudagrass or centipedegrass usually cost more than cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass or fine fescue.
Here are the most common grass types and the corresponding costs of their seeds:
Bahiagrass
Commonly grown in the southeastern U.S., this warm-season grass grows well in full sun and is drought-tolerant. The cost of bahiagrass seed is $7 to $10 per pound, on average, and should be planted at a rate of 5 to 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Bermudagrass
Another warm-season grass popular in the southern U.S., bermudagrass grows quickly and is extremely drought-tolerant. On average, bermudagrass seed costs $4 to $10 per pound, and every 1,000 square feet will need around 2 to 4 pounds of seeds.
Buffalograss
Known for its excellent drought resistance, low maintenance, and adaptability to extreme temperatures, this warm-season grass is well-suited for hot and arid regions. Buffalograss seeds typically cost from $1 to $7 per pound, and the recommended seeding rate is around 1 to 3 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet.
Carpetgrass
Ideal for lawns in Southern regions, carpetgrass is valued for its low maintenance, foot traffic tolerance, and adaptability to various soil types. Its seeds usually cost between $10 and $15 per pound, and every 1,000 square feet will need around 3 to 5 pounds of seeds.
Centipedegrass
Popular in the southeastern U.S., centipedegrass is a warm-season grass that is drought and heat-tolerant, making it ideal for hot, dry climates. This grass seed costs around $6 to $12 per pound, and every 1,000 square feet will need about 1/2 pound of seeds.
Fine Fescue
Fine fescue has a finer texture than other types of grass and is ideal for shady areas. It’s fairly drought-tolerant but grows best in cooler climates. The average price of fine fescue ranges from $5 to $7 per pound, and it should be seeded at a rate of 3 to 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Kentucky Bluegrass
While Kentucky bluegrass is more commonly grown in the northern U.S., it can be successfully grown in other regions as well. This cool-season grass is perfect for lawns with heavy foot traffic. On average, Kentucky bluegrass seeds cost $7 to $12 per pound and should be seeded at a rate of 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial ryegrass is usually used in combination with other grasses to create a strong, dense turf. It has good heat and cold tolerance and takes root quickly. Its seeds usually cost between $2.50 and $9.50 per pound, and every 1,000 square feet would need around 3 to 5 pounds of seed.
Tall Fescue
One of the most common cool-season grasses, tall fescue is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to withstand drought and extreme temperatures. It has a deep green color, good wear tolerance, and low maintenance requirements. Tall fescue grass seeds cost $3 to $10 per pound, and the seeding rate is 5 to 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
St. Augustinegrass
For homeowners in warm and humid regions, St. Augustinegrass is one of the top choices. Known for its rapid growth and ability to recover from stress, this warm-season grass can tolerate wear and withstand heavy foot traffic. Its seeds typically cost between $3 and $18 per pound, and its seeding rate is 1/3 to 1/2 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet.
Zoysiagrass
Another warm-season grass that’s perfect for lawns in regions with hot and humid climates, Zoysiagrass has excellent tolerance for heat and heavy foot traffic. Its seeds cost around $4 to $13 per pound, with a recommended seeding rate of 1 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Labor Rates
In addition to the cost of seeds and the seeding method, you also should factor in labor costs. Hiring a professional to seed your lawn can cost between $40 and $85 per hour, not including the cost of supplies or materials.
While this may seem expensive, a professional can ensure that your lawn is properly seeded and cared for so you don’t have to worry about mistakes or incorrect seeding.
Seeding Method
There are several ways to seed a lawn, and each method has varying costs that should be considered when deciding which is best for your budget and lawn size. Here is a breakdown of each method and its associated cost:
Overseeding
With overseeding, you sprinkle grass seeds over an existing grass lawn. This technique can help thicken a thin lawn, fill in bare spots, or revitalize an old grass lawn. The cost of overseeding a lawn will depend on the total square footage of your lawn but typically ranges from $490 to $1,250.
Best done in the fall or spring, overseeding is ideal when the weather is mild and the soil temperatures are warm. This will help the seed germination be more successful and help the grass establish itself faster.
Slice Seeding
Slice seeding is the process of cutting small grooves into the soil and then planting seeds in the grooves. The cost of slice seeding depends on the size of your lawn, but it typically ranges from $0.08 to $0.18 per square foot.
Slice seeding is best for small areas and can help fill in thinning areas or bare spots in a lawn quickly. It’s also helpful for areas with hard soil since it allows the grass seed to come into contact directly with moist soil.
Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding is the process of spraying grass seed, mulch, and fertilizer onto the lawn. This method is ideal for large areas, and the cost of hydroseeding will depend on your lawn size, but it typically ranges from $493 to $2,900.
Hydroseeding is a great option if you need to cover a large area quickly since the grass seed and fertilizer are evenly spread in one process. It also helps retain moisture and prevents soil erosion, making it ideal for areas with slopes or hills.
Alternative Solutions
If you want a lush, healthy lawn, planting grass seed is the most cost-effective option. However, it takes time and requires more maintenance than other options. Plus, it may not be suitable for all climates.
There are alternatives to seeding if you’re looking for a quick, low-maintenance lawn solution. While the upfront cost of installing sod or artificial grass is significantly more than seeding a lawn, it can provide long-term value.
Artificial Grass Installation
Artificial grass or synthetic turf is made of a combination of nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene materials. If you choose to install artificial grass, you’ll have a lawn that requires little to no maintenance and is extremely durable.
Sod Installation
Laying sod is a great option if you want an instant lawn, as it just takes days to install and requires little maintenance to get established. Although installing sod is typically more expensive than seeding, it’s less costly than artificial grass.
Related Services
In addition to seeding your lawn, you may want to consider these other lawn care services, which can make the process of seeding your lawn easier and more successful. Routine lawn maintenance – such as aerating, fertilizing, and soil testing – can ensure your lawn is in the best shape possible for seeding.
Soil Testing
The cost of soil testing is typically between $12 and $30 per soil sample. Testing can help determine what type of soil is in your yard and which types of grass seed will thrive best. Soil testing also can help determine if any soil amendments are needed, like sulfur and lime.
Aeration
Unless you’re applying new topsoil, it’s recommended to aerate the lawn before seeding. Aeration removes small plugs of soil, creating channels to allow improved water absorption, root expansion, and better seed-to-soil contact during seeding.
On average, lawn aeration costs between $78 and $238 per session. It also helps break up any soil compaction to promote healthy root growth.
Fertilization
If the result of your soil test indicates your lawn needs additional nutrients, you may want to consider fertilizing. The cost of lawn fertilization depends on the size of your lawn but typically ranges from $103 to $343, with most homeowners spending $289 for an average-sized lawn.
Grass Removal
Before seeding your lawn, remember to remove old grass first to allow better seed-to-soil contact. Doing so also promotes optimal germination and seedling growth. Plus, it can help eliminate competition for nutrients and sunlight between the new grass seeds and the existing grass.
Mowing
Once your newly seeded grass starts growing, you’ll need to mow it every one to two weeks to keep it healthy and neat. You can hire a lawn care service pro to mow your lawn for a typical cost of $36 to $105 per service or $32 to $68 per hour.
Dethatching
On average, lawn dethatching costs between $0.04 and $0.06 per square foot or $175 per hour. This process removes dead grass, moss, and other debris from the lawn. It can help promote healthy new growth and ensure your lawn receives the necessary nutrients.
Sprinkler System Installation and Repair
You may want to consider installing an in-ground sprinkler system, as it’s the most efficient way to water your newly seeded or reseeded lawn. If your lawn is already equipped with sprinklers, occasional maintenance and repair services for the sprinkler system might be necessary every few years.
Weed Control
Weed control is crucial as weeds compete with grass for essential resources like water, sunlight, and nutrients. They also can inhibit the growth of desirable grass varieties and compromise the overall appearance of the lawn. So, remember to eliminate weeds from your lawn before seeding to increase the likelihood of successful seed germination and establishment.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
You might be able to save money by doing the lawn seeding yourself. However, it’s not always the ideal choice, especially if you’re busy with work or other things. Seeding or reseeding a lawn requires considerable effort and time. And if you don’t perform the task meticulously, you might have to redo it and incur more expenses.
But if you’re set on doing DIY lawn seeding, you must have the following tools and materials ready:
| DIY Equipment/Materials | Typical Cost |
| Grass seed | $35 – $64 |
| Spreader | Handheld spreader: $11 – $35 Broadcast spreader: $88 – $282 |
| Gardening gloves | $12 |
| Rake | $22 |
| Wheelbarrow | $69 |
| Total DIY cost | $149 – $449 |
If you choose to seed your own lawn, you will only incur the expense of seeds and equipment, which can be between $149 and $449. For large lawns, hiring a professional for seeding is more expensive than doing it yourself, but there are several benefits to consider:
- Professionals have the experience and knowledge needed to get the job done correctly.
- They also have access to specialized tools and equipment necessary to make the process easier, faster, and more effective.
- A lawn care pro can help you choose the right type of grass seed suitable for your climate and soil type, which will ultimately result in a more attractive, healthier lawn.
Cost to Seed a Lawn by Location
Whether you’re looking to reseed an existing lawn or plant a new one, the cost can vary depending on where you live. Different grasses thrive in different climates, so the cost of a particular seed may vary depending on where you live. Be sure to research the best type of grass for your area before making a purchase.
For example, if you’re living in the northern U.S., the cost to seed a lawn may be lower than in other regions due to the lower cost of cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. In the southern U.S., warm-season grasses are more expensive and often require more maintenance, so the cost to seed a lawn may be higher.
FAQ
Can I Plant Seeds on My Lawn Without Any Prep?
For the best results, you’ll need to prepare the soil properly before spreading grass seed. Till the soil, remove any weeds or other debris, and ensure the soil is properly fertilized. This will help create a better environment for the seed to grow in.
Should I Overseed My Lawn Before or After Mowing?
It’s best to overseed your lawn after mowing. This will ensure that the newly planted seeds are not disturbed by the mower. Mow lower than usual and rake up the old grass clippings so that the new grass seeds can germinate properly.
When is the Best Time to Seed a Lawn?
The best time of year to seed a lawn depends on where you live and the type of grass you’re planting. In general, cool-season grasses should be seeded in the late summer or early fall. On the other hand, warm-season grasses should be seeded in late spring and early summer.
Hire a Pro for Seeding Services
Seeding your lawn can be a great way to revitalize it and create a lush, green space. But consider the cost of seeds, the seeding method, and labor rates before you set your budget. By doing your research and considering all of these factors beforehand, you can get the best deal and the most out of your new lawn.
The cost to seed a lawn may seem steep, but the results are worth it. And if you want a lush, green lawn you can enjoy for years to come, remember to hire a reliable lawn seeding service pro.
Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
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