Mowing Rates: What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Lawn Care Service
When you look at your overgrown lawn, the first question that pops up is usually, "How much will this cost?" The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number. Rates vary depending on the size of your yard, the type of grass, how often you need service, and where you live. In this guide we break down the main factors, give you a ball‑park figure for typical jobs, and share a few tricks to keep your bill in check.
What Influences Mowing Prices?
Most lawn care companies charge by the square foot or by the hour. A small suburban front yard (around 500 sq ft) often falls in the $25‑$35 range for a single cut. Bigger properties, especially those over 2,000 sq ft, can run $60‑$90 per visit. If you need extra services—like edging, bagging clippings, or blowing sidewalks—expect an additional $5‑$15 per task.
Frequency matters too. Weekly mowing usually gets a discount because crews can plan routes efficiently. Bi‑weekly service might cost a little more per visit, but you’ll still pay less overall than a one‑off heavy‑duty cut.
Typical Rates Across the UK
Here’s a quick snapshot of what homeowners report paying in different regions:
- London & South East: £30‑£45 for a standard front garden, £70‑£100 for a full property.
- Midlands: £25‑£35 for a front lawn, £55‑£80 for larger estates.
- Scotland & North England: £20‑£30 for smaller cuts, £50‑£75 for bigger jobs.
These numbers are averages; premium services like fertilising or aeration will bump the price up by £15‑£30 per visit.
Another hidden cost is travel time. If the mower has to drive far to reach you, some companies add a mileage surcharge of £0.30‑£0.50 per mile. Asking for a clear quote that lists travel fees can save surprises later.
Seasonal demand also plays a role. Spring and early summer are peak times, so you might see a small price hike or need to book weeks in advance. Late autumn, when grass slows down, often brings discounts.
Now that you know what drives the numbers, you can compare quotes more effectively. Look for companies that give a detailed breakdown—base mowing, extra edging, travel, and any one‑time fees. Transparent pricing usually means fewer hidden charges.
To get the best deal, gather at least three quotes, check online reviews, and ask neighbors for recommendations. A local crew that knows your area’s grass type and soil conditions will work faster and likely charge less.
In short, expect to pay about £30‑£45 for a typical front yard and roughly £70‑£100 for an average full property, with adjustments for size, extra services, and location. Keep an eye on frequency discounts and seasonal offers to stretch your budget further.
Ready to hire? Write down your lawn’s square footage, decide on a service frequency, and request a written estimate that covers every line item. That way you know exactly what you’re paying and can avoid any surprise fees when the mower shows up.
