Do you need to upgrade your lawn mower? Are you a first-time homeowner who needs a new model or are you trying to start a successful lawn care business and are researching different types of equipment you’ll need? Whether this means a new leaf vacuum or a zero-turn mower, no matter your position, you’ve probably asked, “How much does a lawn mower cost?”
Lawn mower prices vary significantly due to the wide variety available. The cost depends on factors such as the:
The price tag can lie anywhere between $50 and $18,000.
In this pricing guide, we will determine the approximate cost of a lawn mower that suits your needs. We will compare every type and pricing tier to help you choose the best product for your lawn.
Generally, a manual push reel lawn mower is the least expensive option. You can find this budget-friendly lawn mower for somewhere between $50 and $75. On the other hand, robotic lawn mowers can reach up to $17,000.
If your yard is under a quarter of an acre, you will only need a walk-behind lawn mower. On average, this type costs between $150 and $350. Lawns that range from one quarter to two acres suit rear-engine riding mowers, which cost around $1,300 to $4,500.
Anything bigger requires a zero-turn-radius mower. These usually cost over $5,000.
The power source also impacts the price. Electric-, reel-, and gas-powered mowers have different capital and maintenance costs. Other factors that influence the cost include the brand, age, and model.
You will need to select your lawn mower by considering the yard size, grass species, and budget.
The three most common power sources for lawn mowers are reel, gas, and electronic.
Reel mowers are usually the most affordable option. You serve as the power source — the blades spin as you move the mower across your lawn. They function on mechanical energy that you generate through motion.
These self-propelled push mowers are durable and possess excellent longevity. Nonetheless, they require a significant amount of manual labor. If you have thick grass or a massive lawn, the necessary labor cost will likely outweigh the initial savings.
However, those with a smaller yard and thinner grass should consider this option because of the accessible price. On average, reel mowers cost around $100. You can find some for around $60 and others that reach $400.
Gas-powered mowers are powerful, mobile, and reasonably priced. You can find manual and self-propelled models. While gas engines are noisy (90 dBA sound level), they can cut large yards without refueling. Also, they have no cords that tie you to one location.
These mowers can cut, bag, mulch, and discharge tall and thick grass without fail. Nevertheless, they are detrimental to the environment and require frequent maintenance.
A gas-powered manual push mower will typically cost between $140 and $570, with the average lawn mower price at $265. If you want a self-propelled mower, you could spend between $170 and $2,100. Usually, you will pay around $370.
Electric mowers do not require fuel tanks as they run on electricity. They can receive their power directly from the source with a cord or battery storage. The battery adds weight and cost, but the cord limits the movement substantially.
Gas-powered lawn equipment contributes to 12% of all carbon monoxide emissions. By switching to an electric mower, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
These lawn mowers are easy to store and require less maintenance than gas mowers. However, battery-powered ones have limited run times between 30 and 45 minutes. This feature limits them to smaller yards unless you have a backup battery on-hand.
Due to the wide variety of electric models, their cost varies drastically. You can find them costing anywhere from $80 to $2,000. Most electric mowers cost around $240. If you opt for a self-propelled one, you will pay between $380 and $830. Generally, these cost around $570.
How much is a lawn mower? The lawnmower cost depends on the type. Mulching, robot, and riding mowers all have different functions and price tags.
Riding lawnmowers are convenient, requires little labor, and can handle large yards. How much does a riding lawn mower cost? The price depends on the specific type of riding mower you choose.
There are three different kinds of riding lawn mowers: the lawn tractor, the rear-engine riding mower, and the zero-turn lawn mower.
Most riding mowers are gas-powered. While there are some battery-operated options, these usually cost more than the many gas-fueled ones.
The lawn tractor is the most popular riding mower. They cut much faster than push mowers, so they suit massive lawns with hills. Those with hydrostatic transmissions run smoother. You can operate them easily because of their steering wheel controls and comfortable seats.
You can find them with attachments that will transform your mower into a dethatcher, trailer, core aerator, or snowplow. This mower can cut, bag, mulch, and discharge the grass.
The typical cost for a lawn tractor is between $1,350 and $4,000, with the average being $2,000.
Rear-engine riding mowers are smaller and less powerful than lawn tractors, but you can easily control them. Their functionality is between walk-behind and tractor mowers.
While they cannot handle heavy attachments, these mowers can still cut large lawns for a reasonable price. They cost between $1,300 and $4,500, with an average price of $2,100.
Zero-turn mowers are famous for their lever controls that let you quickly turn the mower in place. If you service yards with tight corners or obstacles, this mower will help.
They have high top speeds because of their maneuverability and lighter weight. The speed helps them handle large yards with many obstacles, such as trees and gardens. However, you cannot use that many attachments.
This type of riding lawn mower is the most expensive. The cost varies between $2,400 and $15,000, with a hefty average price tag of $3,300.
Gas push mowers are some of the most popular options. They are powerful, quick, and effective. Also, they are one of the most affordable options. You can expect to spend between $170 and $450 for a high-quality gas-push lawn mower.
Keep in mind that the lower capital cost is often offset by the high lifetime fuel costs. You will need to purchase gasoline for your mower. This fuel source is expensive and harmful to the environment.
Corded mowers are best for small yards. They receive their power from electricity provided through a power cable. These mowers usually cost between $90 and $270, depending on the quality and features. The typical cost is around $150 for decent corded push lawn mowers.
These produce fewer emissions than gas mowers, and they operate more quietly. However, you will need to get an extension cord that could add around $30 to your purchase. Also, they lack the power of a gas mower.
Corded push lawn mowers have a low price, but their limited mobility restricts their uses.
Battery push lawn mowers run on electricity provided through a battery. You will need to charge the battery between uses due to its short run time.
Nevertheless, you can experience the quietness, power, and environmental friendliness of a corded lawn mower with the added benefit of mobility.
You can compensate for the short run time through a backup battery. These usually cost between $165 and $500, but some can reach up to $2,000.
You will save on fuel costs over time, especially if you use renewable energy to charge the battery.
Over 10 years, you will spend about $490 on fuel costs and maintenance for a gas push mower. However, the battery-powered alternative costs around $191 for maintenance and energy in the same period.
Mulching lawn mowers will create mulch from grass clippings and leaves by shredding the biomass during use. This mulch gets distributed into the lawn to fertilize the soil with the lost nutrients. You can find gas and electric mulching mowers.
A small, corded mulch mower starts at around $110, but the more powerful and battery-operated options can cost up to $2,200. On average, you will spend around $300 on a mulching lawn mower.
Robot lawn mowers have the lowest labor requirements. You need to install a perimeter wire to direct the robot and ensure it gets charged. If you do not want to spend time mowing your lawn but also can’t afford a gardener, this type of mower will help.
As a business owner, you could lease out these mowers.
Basic robot mowers for small yards are around $570, but the more expensive models with GPS and anti-theft protection can reach $17,000. They range in charging time and durability, but you can get a perfectly good mower for under $1,500.
Hover mowers create a cushion of air between the mower and the lawn. The cushion elevates the lawn mower to let the blade cut the grass. A perk of this design is that, unlike mowers with wheels, a hover mower can be moved in any direction.
Hover lawn mowers typically cost somewhere in the $65 to $150 range, but the more expensive versions can reach $500.
The cost of lawn mowers can also vary based on the manufacturer. Brands known for creating high-quality machines are often likely to cost more, but that’s not always the case – many lawn mower manufacturers still supply affordable but reliable mowers.
Walk-behind lawn mower prices can range from $80 to $1,319, depending on the mower brand and power source.
All BLACK+DECKER mowers use electric power, with options for corded or battery-operated products. This brand creates some of the most affordable walk-behind lawn mowers. They start at just $80, and almost all models cost less than $500.
Sun Joe lawn mowers are highly budget-friendly. The products range from $100 to $750, but most models retail for under $200. Sun Joe offers battery-powered and corded walk-behind electric mowers. However, they are known to take a while to cut and collect clippings.
EGO mowers can cost anywhere between $340 and $830, but the higher cost isn’t without reason. These electric walk-behind mowers offer up to one hour of mowing nonstop, which is much higher than most other electric options. Generally, battery-powered mowers last 30-45 minutes before needing to recharge.
The Troy-Bilt walk-behind mower uses three-in-one cutting equipment, making it especially useful for flat lawns. It’s also one of the more affordable gas mowers. This brand generally costs between $200 and $1,150, with most products on the lower end.
Honda offers some of the most reliable walk-behind gas mowers. They can discharge and shed leaves and grass without additional tools. While they are more expensive, many find the Honda brand worth the investment. You will find them for around $420 to $1,320.
Riding lawn mowers are often more expensive than walk-behind mowers due to their size, power, and convenience. However, the prices vary significantly based on the brand.
Husqvarna is renowned for its lawn tractors as the company manufactures some of the most popular models available. They also have particularly popular zero-turn riding mowers for sale. These lawn mowers are known for their affordable prices, durability, and power.
They have some of the least expensive riding mowers on the market, ranging from just $1,600 to $5,500. If you need more riding mowers for your company, you should consider getting a Husqvarna.
John Deere riding lawn mowers have high-performing motors, robust engines, and great brand recognition. John Deere is one of the most recognizable names in lawn mowers and tractors, so they can charge slightly more. Their mowers range from $1,600 to $6,000. Your customers are likely to trust your services if you show up on a John Deere.
Within a brand and lawn mower variety, there are multiple factors affecting the cost of the product. Things like energy capacity, speed, size, and model year can affect the mower’s cost. Some of these extra features can be worth the extra dough, depending on how much you want to expand your lawn industry business.
Fuel capacity describes how much gasoline your lawn mower can contain. It concerns the length of usage without having to refuel your mower. Mowers with larger fuel capacities often cost more since they are usually bigger.
The fuel capacity is measured in cubic centimeters.
Battery-operated mowers measure their power by the battery voltage. High-voltage batteries have more power and can run longer without needing to get recharged.
Most battery-powered lawn mowers can run between 30 minutes and an hour. However, more expensive models can run up to 90 minutes.
The energy capacity of corded electric lawn mowers depends on the amperage. Amperage describes the strength of an electric current that passes from the power source to the mower. Higher amperage indicates a more powerful mower.
The cutting width is how much grass the mower can cut in each forward pass. The greater the cutting width, the faster you can mow your lawn.
Most walk-behind mowers have a cutting width between 14 and 22 inches, and riding mowers typically range from 30 to 60 inches. Larger cutting widths increase the price tag.
Self-propelled mowers generally have variable speed settings. While more settings give you greater control over your lawn, this feature drives up the cost.
Riding lawn mowers can also vary in speed. While most riding mowers can move forward and backward, the actual speed options differ. Usually, they reach speeds of four to nine miles per hour.
If you’ve heard of the brand, you’ll probably pay a higher price. Manufacturers like Honda, Briggs & Stratton, and Kohler produce high-quality products that people recognize, so lawn mower sellers will increase the cost.
You can get two types of gas engines: 2-stroke or 4-stroke. 2-stroke engines are usually more inexpensive because they use an oil and gasoline blend. Despite the lower cost, they are often more powerful.
4-stroke engines cost more since they only use gasoline. Although they have less power, they operate more quietly and have a higher fuel efficiency. They may cost more to maintain since you need to perform frequent oil changes.
Brushless motors are great choices for electric mowers. While they have a higher investment cost, they improve battery efficiency and durability. You will spend less on electricity and replacement parts over time compared to a brushed motor.
If grass clippings get stuck on the underside of your mower, the mower deck and blades may rust. You have to perform regular deck washings to prevent this issue, but heavy lawn mowers make this more challenging.
Some lawn mowers have a built-in deck washing system. You attach your garden hose to the wash ports. Then, you run the engine until the discharge chute is clear.
While this feature adds convenience, it can drive up the price. When buying lawn mowers for your field service company, you should consider if it would be more beneficial to buy a lightweight mower instead.
When working on countless lawns, you will want to feel comfortable to prevent injury. Features like padded grips, high-backed seats, armrests, vibration dampeners, and cushions all improve your experience. They also keep you safe.
However, you will spend more comfortably. If you have chronic pain or joint issues, the extra cost is well worth it. You will need to see what features you can do away with to stay on a budget.
Many traditional lawn mowers are difficult to start. You might have to pull the choking cord a bunch of times to turn the engine. Maybe you need to pull it at one specific angle. If you live in a cold-weather climate, it can take even more work to start the engine.
Electric starters can bypass this issue. They use a switch or button instead of a crank cord, so you do not have to worry about yanking a cord ten times. However, these starts require more work to maintain due to their complex components. Nonetheless, they significantly improve the convenience of your mower.
A hydrostatic transmission improves the maneuverability of your mower. You can change the direction and speed quickly and efficiently. Like the electric start, this mechanical feature has complex parts that pose a challenge to maintain. They drive up the capital and operating costs.
Some mowers let you raise or lower the mowing deck to adjust it for various grass heights and thicknesses. If you work with multiple grass species or your customers want to customize the blade length, this tool helps.
You can adjust the height with one or two levers. Keep in mind that more height options and ease of operation indicate a higher price tag.
All lawn mowers require some form of regular maintenance to operate correctly. If you have accessories, you may need to spend even more. Sometimes, a lawn mower that costs more upfront will have fewer operation costs, which will save you money within a few years.
Generally, reel mowers cost the least to maintain. Following reel mowers are the electric ones. Gas and riding mowers typically cost the most to maintain and operate.
Gas-powered and riding lawn mowers have extra costs, which include:
You will need to perform maintenance at least seasonally. If something goes wrong, you may need to perform more frequent tune-ups.
Battery-operated lawn mowers will need changing once they drain. You may need a fuel stabilizer as well.
For riding and gas-powered lawn mowers, expect to pay between $170 and $250 to repair the engine. Battery replacements cost around $30 to $50. Lastly, work on the carburetors can cost you $40 to $90.
Reel mowers are relatively easy to clean since you only need a few gallons of water. You can clean this one yourself for next to nothing. Electric, gas, and riding lawn mowers are slightly more expensive. You will need more water, scraping tools, and silicon sprays.
If your lawn mower doesn’t have a desk washer built into the undercarriage, be ready to get a scraping tool. These usually cost less than $20.
Silicon sprays typically cost under $20. They can prevent grass buildup and corrosion.
With reel lawn mowers, you can usually sharpen the blades yourself with a sharpening kit. These at-home sharpening kits cost under $30 and can last for a few years.
Other lawn mowers often require professional blade sharpening. To sharpen and balance the blades, you will usually spend $7 to $8 on cutting blades and $10 on mulching ones. Some companies may charge you up to $20 for each blade.
You can also sharpen your blade with a file, which averages at around $10. DIY blade sharpening requires a balancer to keep everything in place. This tool also costs about $10.
At this point, you probably have an idea of the type of lawn mower you want. Now, you need to figure out where you will buy your next mower.
The best buying practices involve comparing costs with multiple vendors. You can see who sells what, observe their delivery practices, and find the perfect model for the optimal price.
Here are some of the best places to buy lawn mowers.
Home Depot lawn mowers include the brand RYOBI, Toro, HENX, Worx, Makita, BLACK+DECKER, Greenworks, ECHO, Green Machine, DEWALT, and Sun Joe. This company offers all sorts of lawn mowers, including:
It also sells accessories like gas cans, wheels, tune-up kits, spare batteries, sharpeners, blades, engines, and chargers.
Home Depot has a 90-day return policy, free shipping, and price matching, making them one of the best lawn mower vendors.
Ace Hardware offers the brands EGO, Craftsman, and Toro. It sells battery, gas, and self-propelled mowers. You can also find many repair parts, maintenance kits, and accessories.
Ace Hardware’s return policy is 30 days, and the company will offer options to purchase online or pick up in-store.
Lowe’s carries lawn mowers from Craftsman, Honda, WORX, Ariens, John Deere, EGO, SKIL, Husqvarna, and Greenworks. You can choose between:
Lowe’s also sells parts, batteries, attachments, chargers, and accessories for all of these types of lawn mowers.
This company’s return policy is 90 days, and they also offer price matching.
The cost of lawn care and a lawn mower can vary drastically. You have to consider the type of grass you will cut, the layout of the yard, the location, and your budget. Once you have determined your requirements, you can find an affordable lawn mower that fulfills your needs. If you’re starting a new lawn care business and offering lawn care services, you’ll want a functioning lawn mower, but you’ll also need to know how to set lawn care prices and deliver quotes!
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