Maintaining a residential yard, a commercial property, or a large open field, lawn mowing costs can vary widely depending on the size of the property, terrain, frequency of mowing, and whether additional services are included.
Understanding the average prices per acre will help you budget properly, negotiate with lawn care providers, and decide whether to handle the work yourself or hire professionals.
Lawn Mowing Prices Per Acre
The average lawn mowing price per acre ranges from $50 to $175 for a single acre, with the cost per acre decreasing as property size increases, about $75 to $150 per acre for 2 acres, $60 to $120 for 5 acres, and as low as $40 to $90 per acre for properties over 50 acres.
Prices vary based on factors like terrain, grass height, frequency of mowing, and location, but most homeowners can expect to pay $30–$60 for a 1/4-acre lot and $80–$175 for a full acre, with larger rural properties often benefiting from discounted per-acre rates.
| Property Size | Average Cost Per Visit | Average Price Per Acre | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 acre (≈ 10,890 sq. ft.) | $30 – $60 | $120 – $240 | Typical suburban lawn size |
| 1/2 acre (≈ 21,780 sq. ft.) | $50 – $100 | $100 – $200 | Costs slightly reduce per acre |
| 1 acre | $80 – $175 | $80 – $175 | Standard base rate for larger lawns |
| 2 acres | $150 – $300 | $75 – $150 | Discounted per-acre pricing |
| 3 acres | $200 – $400 | $65 – $135 | More efficiency with larger mowers |
| 4 acres | $250 – $500 | $62 – $125 | Common for rural properties |
| 5 acres | $300 – $600 | $60 – $120 | Pricing depends on terrain and obstacles |
| 10 acres | $500 – $1,200 | $50 – $120 | Often negotiated flat rates |
| 20 acres | $900 – $2,000 | $45 – $100 | May involve farm or field mowing equipment |
| 40 acres | $1,800 – $4,000 | $45 – $100 | Specialized services; often per contract |
| 50 acres or more | Negotiated pricing | $40 – $90 | Custom agreements; may include brush hogging |
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One-Time vs. Regular Service
- One-time mowing: Generally higher because the grass may be taller and requires extra effort.
- Weekly/bi-weekly service: Many companies offer discounts for regular customers since the lawn stays manageable.
For example, mowing a 1-acre property once may cost $150, but weekly service might drop it closer to $100 per visit.
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Factors That Influence Lawn Mowing Costs
- Size of Property: Larger areas typically cost more overall, but the price per acre decreases as the acreage increases.
- Terrain and Obstacles: Slopes, hills, trees, fences, or landscaping features add complexity and time.
- Grass Height and Condition: Overgrown or tall grass requires more time and fuel, increasing costs.
- Frequency of Service: Regular weekly or bi-weekly mowing usually costs less per visit compared to one-time services.
- Type of Equipment Used: Professional-grade zero-turn mowers cover large areas faster and more efficiently than push mowers.
- Location: Prices vary by region depending on labor rates and cost of living.
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DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Some property owners consider mowing their acreage themselves. While this may save money, it’s important to factor in:
- Equipment cost: Riding mowers, zero-turn mowers, or tractors can cost thousands upfront.
- Fuel and maintenance: Ongoing costs add up quickly.
- Time investment: Mowing several acres may take hours every week.
Hiring a professional often makes sense for larger properties, especially when time and equipment wear-and-tear are considered.
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Additional Services That Affect Pricing
Many lawn care companies bundle mowing with other services. These extras can increase your bill:
- Edging and trimming around sidewalks, fences, and landscaping
- Blowing debris off driveways and patios
- Fertilization and weed control
- Aeration and overseeding
- Leaf removal in the fall
- Bush and tree trimming
If you only need mowing, clarify this upfront to avoid unnecessary add-ons.
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Tips for Getting the Best Price
- Get multiple quotes: Compare at least 2–3 providers in your area.
- Bundle services: Regular contracts often save money in the long run.
- Negotiate by acreage: The more acres you have, the better deal you can usually secure.
- Schedule regularly: Keeping your grass at a manageable height prevents surcharges for tall grass.
- Ask about seasonal discounts: Some providers lower rates during off-peak months.
FAQs
How many hours does it take to mow an acre?
On average, it takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to mow an acre with a standard riding mower, while a push mower may take up to 2–3 hours. A more efficient zero-turn mower can mow an acre in about 20–30 minutes, depending on obstacles and terrain.
How many inches to cut grass?
The ideal grass height is about 2.5 to 4 inches, depending on the type of grass. A common rule is to follow the “one-third rule,” meaning you should never cut more than one-third of the grass blade’s height at once to keep it healthy and prevent stress.
How to mow your lawn?
To mow your lawn properly, start with a mower set at the right height for your grass type, mow when the grass is dry, and follow a consistent pattern to ensure even cutting. Alternate mowing directions each time to avoid soil compaction and ruts, and always trim and edge for a clean, professional look.
How much does it cost to mow a lawn in Australia?
In Australia, the average cost to mow a lawn ranges from AUD $40 to $60 for a small yard, and around AUD $70 to $100 per hour for larger properties or acreage. Prices vary by state, lawn size, and whether extra services like edging or waste removal are included.
How to calculate acres per hour?
To calculate acres per hour, use the formula:
(Mower width in feet × Speed in mph × 0.121) = Acres per hour.
For example, a 60-inch mower (5 feet) moving at 5 mph can cover about 3 acres per hour under ideal conditions.
How many steps to mow an acre?
On average, it takes about 9,000 to 11,000 steps to mow an acre with a push mower, depending on stride length and mowing pattern. Using a riding mower significantly reduces the physical steps taken but still requires covering the same ground area.
Final words
Lawn mowing prices per acre vary depending on property size, terrain, and service frequency. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 and $175 per acre, with discounts for larger properties and regular service. While DIY mowing may seem cheaper, professional services often save time, effort, and long-term equipment costs.
When budgeting, consider not just the price per acre but also the value of your time and the condition of your lawn. By comparing quotes and negotiating wisely, you can find the best lawn mowing service that keeps your property looking pristine without breaking the bank.
