Average Lawn Cutting Cost in Canada
Cost Guide With Specific Pricing for Provinces, Various Services and Different Sized Lawns
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Keeping a lawn well-maintained is an essential part of home care, but not every homeowner has the time, equipment or desire to handle it themselves. Hiring a professional lawn mowing service offers convenience and consistent results.
The cost to cut grass can vary widely depending on lawn size, frequency of service and where you live. This cost guide explores the average lawn cutting prices in Canada, what is included when you hire a professional and the factors that affect pricing so you can plan your budget with confidence.
What’s Typically Included in Professional Lawn Mowing Services?
Hiring a lawn care company is about more than simply having someone run a mower over your grass. When you get a quote for a lawn cutting service cost it usually includes multiple tasks that together create a neat, finished look to your yard.
Mowing to the Proper Height
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The core service is mowing the grass to an appropriate height, usually following the “one-third rule,” which means only a third of the grass blade is removed at each cut. This keeps lawns healthy, reduces stress on the root system and prevents brown patches – all factors that contribute to a sustainable landscape.
Trimming Along Edges and Obstacles
String trimming, also known as weed‑whacking, is commonly included. This involves cutting grass along fences, flower beds, walkways and other areas where a mower cannot easily reach, ensuring a uniform appearance across the yard.
Edging for a Clean Finish
Edging provides a crisp boundary between your lawn and hard surfaces such as sidewalks and driveways. Not all companies include edging by default, but many offer it in their standard package or as a small add‑on.
Grass Clipping Management
After mowing, lawn care providers typically handle grass clippings in one of two ways: mulching them back into the lawn to provide natural fertilization, or bagging and removing them. Bagging may come at an extra cost, especially if disposal is required.
Blowing and Cleanup
To complete the job, many professionals use leaf blowers to clear grass clippings from sidewalks, patios and driveways. This ensures your property looks tidy immediately after service.
Seasonal Extras
Some lawn care companies expand their offerings to include additional seasonal services like fertilization, aeration, overseeding or fall leaf cleanup. While these are not part of basic mowing, bundling them with regular lawn maintenance can reduce the total cost compared to booking them separately.
Average Cost of Lawn Mowing in Canada
The cost to hire a professional lawn mowing service for residential properties in Canada varies depending on several factors, including property size, complexity and the scope of services provided. In general, the average lawn cutting service cost will be between $25 and $100 per visit.
Average Lawn Cutting Cost in Canada (Based on Lawn Size)
| Lawn Size | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small lawns (up to 1,000 sq. ft.) | $25 – $50 |
| Medium lawns (1,000 – 3,000 sq. ft.) | $45 – $80 |
| Large lawns (3,000 – 5,000 sq. ft.) | $70 – $100 |
| Extra-large lawns (5,000+ sq. ft.) | $90 – $150+ |
Properties exceeding one acre are often quoted by the acre rather than square footage, with average costs ranging from $150 to $300 per acre depending on terrain and obstacles.
Cost by Frequency
Frequency has a direct impact on the cost of a lawn cutting service. A weekly schedule typically offers the lowest per‑visit rate, as grass remains manageable between cuts.
Bi‑weekly services cost more per visit because taller grass takes longer to cut and may require additional trimming or bagging.
One‑time or irregular mowing services are the most expensive, as these lawns often require extra labour to restore them to a neat condition.
Average Lawn Mowing Cost in Canada (Based on Frequency – for Small to Medium City Lawns)
| Service Type | Cost Per Visit ($CAD) |
|---|---|
| Weekly mowing | $25 – $55 |
| Bi-weekly mowing | $40 – $80 |
| One-time service | $65 – $100+ |
Cost by Hour
Some companies charge hourly rates, particularly for large properties or combined landscaping projects.
In Ontario, for example, hourly rates for lawn care professionals range from $50 to $150+ per hour, with higher rates typically applying to more comprehensive services that include trimming, edging and cleanup.
Cost by Seasonal Package
Homeowners who prefer predictable costs may opt for seasonal packages covering the full mowing season (typically April to October). These packages bundle regular visits at a discounted rate.
| Service Type | Estimated Seasonal Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Standard maintenance | $1,200 – $1,800 per season |
| Full service (incl. fertilization & weed control) | $1,800 – $2,500 per season |
| Estate properties or complex landscapes | $2,500+ per season |
Factors That Influence Lawn Cutting Prices
While size and frequency are the primary cost drivers, other variables also impact pricing.
Lawn Complexity and Terrain
Flat, open lawns are quick to mow, while properties with hills, narrow passages, or multiple obstacles (trees, garden beds, play equipment) require more time and effort, which raises costs.
Grass Height and Condition
Overgrown lawns are harder to cut and often need multiple passes, increasing labour time. Some companies charge an overgrowth fee for grass taller than 6-8 inches.
Type of Service Requested
Basic mowing is the cheapest option, but adding services like edging, trimming or bagging clippings can increase the price. Comprehensive packages that include fertilization, weed control or aeration will cost even more.
Regional Market Rates
Urban centres where demand is high and labour costs are elevated tend to have higher lawn care rates compared to rural areas. Additionally, provinces with higher fuel or transportation costs may pass these expenses on to customers.
Seasonal Demand
Spring and early summer are peak mowing seasons. Some companies raise prices during this time due to demand, while others offer early‑season discounts to lock in seasonal contracts.
Read our article on landscaping costs in Canada for a full breakdown of what it costs to have your property professionally maintained.
Regional Variations in Lawn Cutting Costs
Although national averages are helpful, costs vary widely across Canada due to climate, labour rates and local demand for landscaping services.
Ontario
Ontario sees some of the highest lawn care rates, especially in the Greater Toronto Area. Standard mowing services typically range from $50 to $100 per visit, with estate properties requiring custom quotes. Hourly rates of $70 to $150+ are common for larger jobs. Seasonal packages can range from $1,100 to $2,000 for basic maintenance.
British Columbia
The average lawn cutting cost in Vancouver (and surrounding areas) is slightly lower on average but still reflects urban pricing. Small yards may cost $30 to $50 per visit, while larger properties can reach $80 or more. The mild climate extends the mowing season, so annual costs can be higher due to the increased number of cuts.
Alberta
Calgary and Edmonton homeowners typically pay $40 to $80 per visit, with price variations based on lawn size and whether additional services like edging or aeration are included. Properties in suburban developments with straightforward layouts often fall towards the lower end of the range.
Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada
In Nova Scotia, lawn cutting services generally range from $40 to $85 per visit. Weekly service is more affordable per cut, often $25 to $55, while bi‑weekly or one‑time visits run higher at $65 to $100+ due to increased labour.
Prairie Provinces
Manitoba and Saskatchewan typically offer some of the lowest lawn cutting rates in Canada. Expect $30 to $60 per visit for average‑sized properties, although prices can climb for rural acreages.
Read more on this topic in Want to Reduce Your Impact on the Environment? Choose From These 9 Sustainable Gardening Options
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