How Much Does a Turf Installation Cost?

If you’re considering installing artificial turf, understanding the factor behind pricing helps you budget more confidently.

The overall installation price—typically $700,000 to $1,500,000—depends on field size, sport type, and the specific artificial turf products you choose. One key driver is the infill system beneath the turf, which can add around $4 to $5 per square foot. Infill affects turf softness, shock absorption, and safety—making it an essential part of your project.

Where you’re located also plays a role. Urban areas like Chandler may see higher labor and delivery costs. If you’re switching from natural grass, you might be able to reuse an existing drainage base, which can significantly cut down the installation time and expenses.

Other upgrades like putting greens, safety zones, or commercial lighting can drive up the final quote. But each feature brings long-term value, especially for residential or sport applications.

Artificial Turf Pricing Per Square Foot

Let’s break down artificial turf installation costs by the square foot so you can plan smarter.

Expect to spend between $5 and $11 per square foot on the turf system alone, depending on the material and overall field use. If you’re replacing an existing field, pricing tends to stay within $5–$10 per foot.

New builds can cost a bit more—around $7 to $14 per square foot—because they require a new base material, grading, and potentially new irrigation infrastructure. Still, by reusing parts of an old grass field, you can shave thousands off the total.

Whether you’re designing a residential yard or building a full-sized sports field, these numbers give you a clearer picture of what to expect with your project.

Site Prep and Installation Time Impact Costs

Site preparation is one of the most overlooked but crucial steps in any turf installation.

Tasks like cutting, grading, utility hookups, and weed barrier placement are necessary to ensure a long-lasting field. You’ll also need to certify that your site meets safety and environmental codes—especially if it’s a public or commercial space.

Typically, site prep accounts for 10–20% of the total installation budget. In Chandler, labor costs and permit fees can influence your final price. Don’t skip this step—it ensures your turf system is properly laid and performs for 15 years or more.

According to the Synthetic Turf Council, proper site prep can extend your turf’s life and reduce costly repairs. It’s one of the most important parts of the installation process.

Comparing Turf Grass to Natural Grass Costs

It’s smart to compare artificial turf and natural grass side by side.

Installation Costs:

• Artificial turf ranges from $700,000 to $1,500,000

• Natural grass: $400,000 to $820,000

Maintenance (Over 10 Years):

• Artificial turf: $60,000 to $100,000

• Natural grass: $180,000 to $440,000

Cost per Hour of Use:

• Turf grass: $27/hour

• Natural grass: $52/hour (via the Sports Turf Managers Association)

So while turf installation has a higher upfront cost, it becomes more economical with time—especially for high-use areas like golf courses, putting greens, or dog parks.

Annual Maintenance for Artificial Turf Installation

Maintenance for artificial grass is surprisingly low compared to traditional lawn care.

Where a natural grass yard might require weekly mowing, irrigation, fertilizing, and weeding—artificial turf just needs light sweeping, occasional brushing, and infill top-ups. You’ll save thousands annually.

Here’s what a typical year looks like:

Smaller residential yards or dog runs may only require $4,000–$6,000 per year in care and maintenance, while large commercial installations may run closer to $8,000.

Financing Options for Turf Installation Projects

Let’s talk about money—because the cost of turf installation can be a hurdle without a plan.

Many Chandler residents and public entities use flexible financing or programs like the SmartBuy Cooperative Purchasing Program to reduce upfront costs. This approach allows you to lock in bulk pricing, shorten the schedule, and simplify the buying process.

Other options include:

• Local & Federal Grants: Ideal for schools or public parks

• Custom Payment Plans: Work with your installer to spread out payments

• Cost Calculators: Use tools like the FieldTurf Cost Calculator to get a ballpark estimate

Early planning and budgeting assure a smoother experience, especially when building a low-maintenance lawn or pet-friendly landscape.

Getting an Accurate Turf Installation Quote

If you’re serious about turf installation, get a detailed quote—not just a ballpark figure.

Bring in a certified installer or landscape architect experienced in sports fields, golf greens, and residential lawns. In just a couple of meetings, you can get a full installation breakdown, tailored to your space, goals, and square footage.

We recommend hiring one team to manage both the turf and base. This reduces miscommunication, keeps your schedule on track, and minimizes surprise costs.

If you’re replacing existing grass, ask about using your current base or drainage system. It could help you save thousands on installation time.