Top 8 Factors Affect Backyard Putting Green Cost

Thinking about building a backyard putting green, but worried about the cost? You’re not alone! At MightyGrass, this is one of the most common questions we receive, and one of the most difficult to answer. We know that every detail, from turf type and layout to installation choices, can affect your backyard putting green cost, but most will fall between $15 and $35 per square foot. In this guide, we’ll explain the eight most important factors so you can plan wisely, stay on budget, and enjoy a relaxing game and a beautiful, long-lasting green in your own backyard.

#1. Your Putting Green Size and Layout

When it comes to the cost of a backyard putting green, area is crucial. The larger the area, the more artificial turf, base materials, and installation labor you’ll need, all of these factors will increase your total project budget.

A small backyard putting green of around 200–400 sq ft typically costs typically $30 per sq ft or more, while a professional-sized green of 1,000 sq ft or more big putting green $15 to $30 per sq ft, depending on design. 

From the layout of your backyard putting green. A simple flat surface will be more budget-friendly, while complex designs with slopes, multiple holes, or fringe grass areas will add to the total price. When planning your green, start with the space you actually need for realistic putting practice, not just the maximum size your yard can handle.

#2. Type of Putting Greens Turf Material

The type of putting green turf material you choose has a major impact on both the feel and the price of your putting green. High-quality artificial grass putting greens use advanced fibers designed to replicate real golf course performance, offering smooth ball roll, natural color, and long-term durability.

The material of the turf blades affects the cost of putting green turf. Below, we’ve provided a simple analysis:

• Nylon putting green turf: Extremely durable and resistant to heat, but the most expensive (up to $35/sq ft).
• Polypropylene turf: Affordable and good for light recreational use, but can flatten over time under heavy traffic.
• Polyethylene turf: A balanced choice for most homeowners — soft, realistic, and moderately priced.

If you’re comparing options, remember that cheaper turf often means shorter lifespan and higher maintenance later. Investing in high-quality synthetic turf ( like MightyGrass MT-Golf ), gives you a longer-lasting, low-maintenance surface that maintains performance for years.

#3. Artificial Putting Green Sub-Base Preparation and Site Conditions

Before any turf is laid, the groundwork underneath your putting green determines how well it performs and how long it lasts. A stable, well-draining base prevents surface unevenness and water pooling, two common problems that can ruin a backyard putting green over time.

Sub-base preparation typically includes excavation, leveling, compacting crushed stone, and installing a drainage layer. Depending on your site’s soil type and slope, base construction can account for 20–30% of total project cost.

If your yard has poor drainage or uneven terrain, expect additional labor and materials, such as geotextile liners or custom leveling. Professional artificial turf companies like MightyGrass provide in-house guidance on the entire artificial grass installation process, ensuring a consistent surface that meets performance and durability standards.

#4. Putting Green Installation: DIY vs Professional

When installation your backyard putting green, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to install it yourself or hire professionals.

If you’re confident with tools and looking to save on labor, a DIY putting green installation can reduce your expenses by as much as 30–40%. However, it requires careful ground preparation, precise turf cutting, and proper seam joining. Even a small mistake in base leveling can affect ball roll quality and long-term performance.

Professional installation ensures your sub-base, drainage, and turf alignment are done correctly from the start. While this option may raise your artificial putting green cost upfront, it usually delivers better playability and longevity. Professional installers also have the equipment to handle curved layouts, fringe transitions, and slope gradients, which are difficult to achieve in a DIY setup.

If you want to enjoy professional-grade results with peace of mind, MightyGrass offers both installation support and product guidance, helping you design, prep, and complete your project efficiently, whether you go fully DIY or hire a pro team.

#5. Golf Green Design Complexity and Features

The design complexity of your putting green can significantly impact total cost. A simple single hole with a flat surface is the most economical choice and is perfect for casual practice and small yards. But if you want to create a mini golf experience in your backyard, design features like multiple cups, realistic undulations, or a fringe area can elevate both aesthetics and playability, along with the budget.

If your adding premium putting green kit or performance area such as:

• Breaks and contours (simulate real golf green slopes)
• Chipping areas or bunkers
• Surrounding fringe turf or rough textures
• Lighting for night putting
  …

These can add anywhere from $1,000 – $5,000 to your total project cost.

These enhancements don’t just look good — they also help you replicate a true golf-course feel at home. To manage your backyard putting green cost effectively, consider starting with a simpler layout that leaves room for future upgrades.

#6. Infill and Sub-base Materials

While turf often gets the spotlight, the infill and sub-base materials beneath it are what truly define the long-term performance and stability of your putting green, and they also influence cost more than most homeowners realize.

The sub-base layer (usually crushed stone or decomposed granite) provides drainage and a smooth, compacted foundation for your turf. Depending on your soil condition and climate, this layer can add $2–$5 per square foot to your overall backyard putting green cost.

Putting turf infill is small granules that are brushed into the turf fibers to support the blades and improve ball roll. Common infill types include:

• Silica sand: The most affordable and widely used option.
• Rubber granules: Offer extra cushioning but may retain heat.
• Zeolite or coated infill: Premium infills that control odor and temperature, ideal for high-end residential setups.

If you’d like to save on infill material, you can choose MightyGrass, a high-density, non-infill putting turf with shorter strands (10–15 mm), reducing installation time, cleaning, and maintenance costs.

#7. Location and Labor Costs

Your geographical location can also influence your backyard putting green cost. Labor rates, climate conditions, and even local material availability can cause significant price differences between regions.

For example, in the US, labor installation costs typically range from $5 – $12 per square foot, depending on your state. Homeowners in coastal or urban areas tend to pay more due to higher material and transportation costs, while those in rural regions may benefit from lower rates but limited contractor availability.

Climate also affects cost indirectly. Hotter regions may require UV-resistant turf materials and better drainage design, while areas with heavy rainfall need more advanced base systems to prevent water buildup.

When comparing quotes, be sure to ask whether the price includes excavation, base compaction, infill, and edging materials. Transparent, itemized pricing helps you avoid hidden expenses later.

At MightyGrass, all turf products are engineered to perform in diverse climates, from hot desert areas to humid coastal zones, making it easier for you to achieve consistent quality no matter where you live.

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#8. Hidden Putting Green Price & Cost-Saving Tips

When calculating your backyard putting green cost, it’s easy to focus only on turf and installation — but there are hidden costs that can quietly inflate your budget. Common items to consider include:

• Delivery and shipping fees: Especially for larger turf rolls or specialty materials.
• Edging and borders: Decorative or functional borders can add $500–$1,500 depending on material.
• Drainage solutions: If water accumulates on the green, it’s game over. Poor drainage can lead to turf damage, soft spots, and a field that feels more like a swamp than a golf course. Addressing this issue may require additional excavation or drainage solutions.
• Permits (If Applicable): Some areas require permits for major landscaping work, so check local regulations unless you want an unexpected rules violation on your scorecard.

Cost-saving Tips:

• Buy directly from the manufacturer – working with brands like MightyGrass eliminates reseller markups.
• Plan your layout efficiently – smaller, strategically shaped greens reduce turf and base material waste.
• Combine features – integrate fringe or chipping areas within existing turf zones rather than adding separate sections.
• DIY prep where feasible – simple excavation or base leveling can reduce professional labor costs.
• Choose long-lasting materials – investing upfront in high-quality turf and a proper base saves replacement and maintenance expenses over the years.

Backyard Putting Green Maintenance and Longevity

Artificial turf putting greens are low-maintenance compared to natural grass. Regular maintenance can give you long-term cost-effectiveness and longevity.

Maintenance Tips:

• Regular brushing: Keeps turf fibers upright and ensures smooth ball roll.
• Cleaning debris: Leaves, twigs, or pet waste should be removed to prevent damage.
• Infill adjustments: For infill-based systems, occasional topping up maintains firmness and performance.
• Periodic inspections: Check seams, edges, and drainage to prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs.

With MightyGrass high quality artificial turf, you can enjoy a lifespan of 10–15 years or more with minimal upkeep. Choosing premium turf and properly installed sub-base materials ensures your investment pays off over time, reducing both replacement costs and ongoing maintenance expenditures.

MightyGrass vs Other Backyard Putting Greens

MightyGrass is the most reliable golf green turf suppliers and manufacturers. We design every putting green system for longevity and performance. Using UV-stabilized polyethylene and polypropylene yarns, reinforced double-layer backing, advanced drainage, and recyclable materials, our fields withstand high-traffic sports, residential lawns, and commercial installations while maintaining their lush appearance. Independent field audits show properly installed MightyGrass systems retain over 85% of their performance even after 10 years, often exceeding 12 years with proper maintenance. 

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Your backyard putting green price depends on several key factors, from turf material and installation to design and location. By understanding these elements before starting, you can make smart decisions that balance performance and budget.

Start Planning Today: By carefully evaluating these factors, measure your field, define your budget, and explore MightyGrass’s range of durable, premium, and customizable artificial putting greens. With smart choices upfront, you’ll enjoy a low-maintenance, long-lasting green that delivers true golf-course performance, right in your backyard.

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FAQ: Backyard Putting Green Cost & Installation

How to make a backyard putting green?

To make a backyard putting green, start by selecting a flat area, clearing the ground, and installing a stable sub-base with crushed stone or decomposed granite. Then lay high-quality artificial putting green turf, secure the edges, and brush in infill for smooth ball roll. For best results, choose professional-grade turf from MightyGrass for realistic performance and durability.

What are do-it-yourself putting green kits?

DIY putting green kits include pre-cut turf, cups, flags, and installation accessories, allowing homeowners to build their own putting area easily. They’re a budget-friendly option for small spaces, but custom installations offer more flexibility in design and slope.

Who’s cheaper than Turf Masters?

If you’re comparing prices, MightyGrass provides factory-direct pricing with full customization and international shipping. Because we handle yarn extrusion, tufting, and backing in-house, we help you save on middleman costs — while maintaining professional-grade quality.

How to install a putting green?

Whether you want to build an outdoor putting green or an indoor putting green，installing a putting green involves five key steps:

1. Excavate and level the ground.
2. Install base layers for drainage.
3. Compact and smooth the surface.
4. Roll out turf and secure edges.
5. Add infill and brush the surface.

Professional installation ensures perfect slope and consistent ball speed.