DIY Yard Maintenance vs. Hiring a Professional: Which Costs More in the Long Run?
Maintaining a well-kept lawn takes time, effort, and money. Homeowners often debate whether they should handle yard maintenance themselves or hire a professional service. While doing it yourself may seem cost-effective upfront, hiring professionals can provide benefits that may justify the expense. But how long does it take before the costs balance out? Let’s break it down.
Cost Breakdown: DIY Lawn Care
If you choose to maintain your own yard, you'll need to invest in equipment, materials, and time. Here’s an estimate of common costs:
Lawn Mower (push mower: $250–$500, riding mower: $1,500–$3,000)
Trimmer/Edger ($100–$300)
Blower ($100–$500)
Fertilizer & Weed Control ($100–$300 per year)
Gas & Maintenance ($50–$200 per year)
Irrigation Repairs ($100–$500 per year, if applicable)
Mulch, Seeds & Miscellaneous Tools ($100–$400 per year)
Estimated First-Year DIY Cost:
Depending on the equipment you buy, your first-year investment could range from $600 to $4,000. In subsequent years, you’ll spend about $250 to $1,500 annually on maintenance, fuel, and materials. Additionally, unexpected repairs or replacements could further add to these costs over time.
Cost Breakdown: Professional Lawn Service
The cost of hiring a professional lawn care company varies based on location, property size, and services needed. Here’s an average estimate:
Basic Lawn Care (Mowing, Trimming, Blowing): $40–$80 per visit
Fertilization & Weed Control: $300–$800 per year
Aeration & Overseeding: $100–$400 annually
Mulching & Seasonal Cleanup: $100–$500 per season
Pest & Disease Management: $200–$600 per year (if needed)
Estimated Annual Professional Cost:
Most homeowners spend $1,000 to $3,500 per year on professional lawn care, with more extensive services increasing the cost. Additionally, some companies offer service packages, which may lower the per-service rate when bundled together.
How Long Until DIY Costs Equal Hiring a Professional?
To determine when costs balance out, let’s compare an average DIY investment of $2,500 (including equipment) to a professional service averaging $1,500 per year:
In year one, DIY is more expensive due to equipment purchases.
By year two or three, the annual costs of DIY and professional services may be similar.
After five years, DIY maintenance might save money—if equipment lasts and doesn’t require costly replacements.
If new equipment purchases are necessary every five to seven years, then the long-term savings of DIY become smaller.
The Hidden Costs: Time and Effort
Beyond financial costs, time is a major factor. Mowing, trimming, and maintaining a yard can take 2–4 hours per week, totaling 50–100 hours per year. Hiring a professional service frees up this time for other activities, making it a valuable investment for busy homeowners.
Additionally, DIY lawn care requires knowledge of proper fertilization schedules, pest management, and soil conditions. Mistakes in these areas can lead to costly lawn damage, reducing the long-term savings of maintaining your own yard. Professional services bring expertise, reducing the likelihood of lawn damage and ensuring a consistently healthy yard.
Additional Considerations: Seasonal and Regional Factors
The cost-effectiveness of DIY versus professional lawn care may also depend on where you live. In regions with extreme weather conditions, maintaining a healthy lawn can be more challenging. Homeowners in these areas may find it more cost-effective to hire professionals who have access to specialized treatments and equipment for different seasons.
For example:
In areas with long, dry summers, irrigation and drought-resistant lawn treatments may be necessary.
In regions with cold winters, winterizing a lawn and preventing seasonal damage may require professional expertise.
Some locations deal with persistent pests, which may require specialized treatments only available through professional services.
Conclusion: Which Is Best for You?
While DIY lawn care can lead to savings in the long run, the financial difference between maintaining your yard yourself and hiring a professional is surprisingly close. The decision ultimately depends on budget, lifestyle, and how much you enjoy yard work. If time is more valuable to you than savings, a professional service might be the best investment, whereas those who enjoy yard work may prefer the DIY route.
Ultimately, the choice is about balancing time, effort, and financial investment. Homeowners who take pride in personally maintaining their lawn may appreciate the hands-on approach, while those who value convenience and professional results may find that hiring a service provides peace of mind and a consistently well-kept yard.
If you're looking for professional lawn care services in Cary, Fuquay-Varina, or Holly Springs, NC, SOS Outdoor offers expert landscaping, lawn maintenance, and property care solutions to keep your yard looking its best year-round. Fill out the form for a free lawn care estimate!
