
Artificial grass is becoming an increasingly popular landscaping solution across Canada. Long winters, freeze, thaw cycles, heavy rainfall in coastal regions, and rising water and maintenance costs make natural lawns difficult and expensive, to maintain year-round. As a result, more homeowners are searching for clear answers to one key question: how much does artificial grass cost in Canada?
The challenge is that artificial grass pricing varies widely. Factors such as turf quality, installation conditions, drainage requirements, and regional labor costs all affect the final price per square foot. In this guide, you’ll get a clear, Canada-specific breakdown of artificial grass costs, and the factors that influence pricing. We hope this will help you be prepared when you request a quote.
Artificial Grass Cost Breakdown: What Affects the Price?
Turf Quality & Yarn Type
The biggest factor in artificial grass cost is the quality of the turf material.
Artificial grass is typically made from polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or nylon yarns. Based on MightyGrass years of experience in bostads- landscaping och Sport fields across Canada, PE artificial turf is the most common choice due to its balance of softness, durability, and weather resistance. High-quality artificial grass usually features:
- Denser stitching and heavier face weight for better durability
- UV-stabilized yarns to prevent fading under strong summer sun
- Stronger multi-layer backing designed to handle freeze–thaw cycles
- Artificial turf with antibacterial, anti-mold, and anti-static properties effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold, reducing odors and safety hazards, while also minimizing static electricity buildup, improving comfort and cleanliness.
Lower-cost synthetic turf may look acceptable at first but often wears faster in high-traffic areas or harsh climates. In contrast, premium artificial turf costs more upfront but maintains its appearance and performance for many years, especially important in regions with extreme seasonal changes.
Installation Difficulty & Site Conditions
Installation costs can vary just as much as material prices, depending on your property.
Factors that increase labor costs include:
- Limited access (stairs, narrow pathways, or fenced yards)
- Sloped or uneven ground
- Irregular lawn shapes that require more cutting and fitting
- Removal of existing sod, soil, or debris
A flat, open backyard is typically faster and cheaper to install than a complex landscape with multiple elevation changes. In Canada, labor pricing often reflects both the difficulty of the site and the time required to prepare it correctly.
Base Preparation & Drainage Requirements
Proper base preparation is essential for artificial grass performance—especially in Canadian climates. Most installations require:
- A compacted crushed stone base (usually 2–3 inches thick)
- Weed barriers to prevent growth beneath the turf
- Drainage considerations, particularly in high-rainfall or clay-soil regions
- The base should retain a certain slope (approximately 0.5% is recommended) to assist with drainage.
In areas like British Columbia or parts of Ontario and Quebec, drainage becomes even more important to prevent water pooling after rain or snowmelt. If your yard has poor natural drainage, additional base work may be required, increasing overall project cost—but significantly improving long-term results.
P.S..: MightyGrass is a manufacturer with over 20 years of experience in supplying artificial turf, and is one of the few FIFA-godkända tillverkare av konstgräs globally. With a warehouse in California, we can supply and meet the needs of the North American market in the shortest possible time. MightyGrass focuses on durable yarn systems, stable backing structures, and products engineered for long-term outdoor performance—including challenging climates similar to Canada’s.
Average Cost of Artificial Grass in Canada (Per Sq Ft)
Considering these factors and based on current market trends, we have compiled the following list of expected prices for artificial turf in Canada:
Turf Materials Only
If you’re purchasing artificial grass without installation, average material prices typically fall into these ranges:
- Budget artificial grass: CAD $5–$8 per sq ft
- Mid-range artificial grass: CAD $10–$15 per sq ft
- Premium artificial grass: CAD $15+ per sq ft
These prices also reflect differences in yarn quality, density, backing strength, and expected lifespan. MightyGrass is a direct manufacturer of artificial grass and can fully customize products to your needs.
Artificial Grass Installation Cost in Canada
Professional installation adds labor and preparation costs on top of material pricing. In most Canadian residential projects, installation costs typically range from:
- CAD $5–$8 per sq ft for simple sites with minimal preparation
- CAD $10–$15 per sq ft for standard residential installations
- CAD $15–$20+ per sq ft for complex or labor-intensive sites
When materials and installation are combined, the total installed cost of artificial grass in Canada usually falls between CAD $10 and $30 per square foot. Your exact cost will depend on turf quality, site conditions, and regional labor rates.

Artificial Grass Cost Per Square Foot by Quality Level
When planning your artificial turf project in Canada, quality level strongly influences cost per square foot. Below is a breakdown of typical price ranges based on product performance, durability, and expected lifespan, especially important given Canada’s varied climate.
Budget Artificial Grass (Best for Low Traffic Areas)
- Best for: Low-traffic backyards, side yards, or temporary installs
- Characteristics:
- Shorter pile height and lower density
- Basic backing, limited UV protection
- Suitable where appearance is nice-to-have but not priority
Budget artificial grass offers an entry point for many homeowners who want a green, low-maintenance yard without a big upfront investment. However, in heavier foot traffic zones (e.g., children playing or pets running), lower density can lead to quicker wear and visible flattening over time, especially under Canadian freeze-thaw conditions.
Mid-Range Artificial Grass (Most Popular Choice)
- Best for: Standard residential lawns and general landscaping
- Characteristics:
- Balanced density for durability and natural look
- Better UV stabilization for fade resistance
- Good lifespan in most Canadian regions
Mid-range turf strikes a balance between cost and performance, making it the most common choice for homeowners. If you want a lush, realistic lawn that stands up well to regular use and seasonal changes, mid-range turf tends to deliver the best long-term value.
Premium Artificial Grass (Pet & Heavy Use)
- Best for: High-traffic yards, pets, sports areas, commercial landscapes
- Characteristics:
- Long, dense fibers with superior resilience
- Advanced backing design for stability and drainage
- Enhanced UV resistance and wear tolerance
Premium artificial grass is ideal if you expect significant foot traffic, active pets, or you simply want the best possible look and durability. In Canadian climates with intense sun exposure and seasonal snow melt, premium turf holds up longer with less crushing or matting.
How do different price points of artificial grass affect you?
| Artificial Lawn Feature | Budget Turf | Premium gräsmatta |
| Turf Quality | Shorter pile and low-density, less realistic look | High-density fibres, soft and lush feel |
| Varaktighet | ≤10 year lifespan | 15–20 year lifespan |
| Backing & Drainage | Basic SBR perforated backing | Advanced Double-layer PP +PU or ERET recyclable backing for better drainage |
| Fyllnadsmaterial | Silica sand and basic infill | Premium Non-infill artificial grass is best |
Artificial Grass Cost Estimator: How Much Will Your Lawn Cost?
Now that you know cost per square foot ranges by quality level, you can get a better sense of realistic project costs based on typical lawn sizes seen in Canada.
Typical Artificial Lawn Sizes in Canada
To estimate your total investment, here are some common residential lawn sizes:
| Lawn Type | Approximate Area |
| Small Front Yard | ~150–300 sq ft |
| Small Backyard | ~300–600 sq ft |
| Medium Yard | ~600–1,000 sq ft |
| Large Yard | ~1,000–2,000 sq ft |
Your actual measurements may vary, but these benchmarks help you calculate rough budget ranges.
Artificial Turf Cost Calculator
When ordering synthetic turf, wholesale suppliers typically sell in fixed widths, meaning you may need to purchase slightly more material than your actual lawn area to allow for cutting and installation. Therefore, when using the calculator below, we recommend that you select an installation estimation factor.
Estimate Your Artificial Grass Cost
Dricks:These estimates do not include additional site preparation or accessory costs. They are meant to give you a realistic ballpark so you can prepare your budget before contacting suppliers or installers.
Additional Costs to Consider Before Installation
When budgeting for artificial grass in Canada, it’s important to factor in potential expenses beyond basic turf and installation. Ignoring these can lead to surprises when quotes come in.
Removal of Existing Lawn or Debris
If your yard currently has natural grass, weeds, or old landscaping materials, many installers will charge an extra fee for:
- sod removal
- soil grading
- disposal of old materials
This can range from CAD $1–$3 per sq ft or more, depending on site condition.
Edging, Borders & Landscape Features
Clean transitions to patios, walkways, or garden beds often require:
- aluminum or plastic edging
- paver borders
- custom cutting for curves
These finishing touches improve appearance and durability but add to total costs.
Infill-material
Some installations use infill (e.g., rubber crumb, sand, or eco-friendly infill crumble alternatives) to:
- support fiber structure
- improve drainage
- add weight and stability
Depending on type and amount, infill can add a few dollars per square foot to your budget.
Weed Barriers, Underlay & Geotextile Fabrics
In regions prone to weed growth or poor drainage, a quality weed barrier or geotextile underlay helps maintain turf performance. The material cost is modest, but labor adds up—especially in larger yards.
Permit or HOA Costs
In rare cases where your property is part of a Homeowner Association (HOA) or falls under strict municipal landscaping rules, you may need:
- approval fees
- consultant input
- design compliance checks
These don’t apply everywhere but are worth checking in advance.

Artificial Grass vs. Natural Grass: Which Costs More in Canada?
One of the most common questions Canadian homeowners ask is how artificial grass compares to natural turf, not just in appearance, but in total cost over time. Given Canada’s diverse climate zones, from rainy BC to harsh Prairie winters and freeze (thaw Ontario springs) understanding the real cost differential is essential before investing.
| Föremål | Konstgräs | Naturligt gräs |
| Installation in a 1000 square foot yard(Materials and Professional Installation Labour Costs) | CAD $15 per square foot; Total: CAD $15,000 | CAD $9 per square foot; Total: CAD $9,000 |
| First Year Total | CAD $15,000 | CAD $9,000 |
| Mowing (10+ times annually) | – | ~CAD $1,000 |
| Weed and Feed (2-3 times annually) | – | ~CAD $200 |
| Spring Irrigation (1 time annually) | – | ~CAD $100 |
| Water Usage (6 months) | – | ~CAD $400 |
| Top Dress Seed (1 time annually) | – | ~CAD $350 |
| Additional Cost Per Year | ~0 | ~CAD $2,500 |
| Total Spent After 5 Years | ~CAD $15,000 | ~CAD $20,000 |
| Total Spent After 10 Years | ~CAD $15,000 | ~CAD $30,000 |
So if you’re only looking at initial expenses, artificial turf costs significantly more, often 2–10× higher depending on lawn size and quality level. However, this upfront difference doesn’t tell the full story because a natural lawn incurs ongoing costs that artificial grass does not.
Savings will vary by region, water pricing, and how much maintenance you do yourself versus outsourcing. Nonetheless, in many parts of Canada, artificial grass often breaks even on total cost and becomes cheaper over an extended period thanks to lower maintenance and no watering.
It’s worth noting that MightyGrass is not the cheapest artificial turf, as we strive for high-quality, comfortable, and durable products, making it a positive investment compared to natural grass.
Is Artificial Grass Worth the Cost in Canada?
With higher upfront pricing but lower long-term maintenance, many homeowners ask: Is artificial grass truly worth it? The answer depends on your goals, budget, lifestyle, and regional climate.
When does it make sense? Artificial grass is especially worth it if:
- You’re in a high-water-cost area (e.g., BC, Alberta, parts of Ontario)
- Your yard sees heavy use (kids, pets, recreation)
- You want a green lawn year-round with minimal maintenance
- Natural grass struggles to grow due to shade, clay soil, or poor drainage
In these cases, the long-term savings and lifestyle benefits often justify the initial investment.
Slutsats
In Canada, artificial turf does not have a uniform price. The price of artificial grass is balanced based on turf quality, installation conditions, and regional climate factors. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, year-round green lawn that performs reliably through Canadian winters and wet seasons, artificial grass can be a smart long-term investment.
As an experienced manufacturer, MightyGrass focuses on durable yarn systems and stable backing structures engineered for demanding outdoor environments, helping homeowners balance cost, performance, and longevity.
FAQ
Why Cheapest Turf Often Costs More Long-Term?
Choosing the absolute cheapest artificial grass isn’t always the best value. Here’s why:
- Lower durability: Inexpensive turf may flatten or break down faster, especially under heavy use.
- Poor drainage: Lower-quality backing can trap water or be more prone to mold in wet Canadian climates.
- Shorter lifespan: What seems like a budget buy can require replacement sooner, especially in high-sun or high-snow areas.
So while lower-priced turf saves you money up front, it can cost more over time due to:
- Earlier replacement
- Patch repairs
- Higher maintenance to keep it looking good
Artificial Grass Pros & Cons for Canadian Homes
To help you decide, here’s a concise look at the advantages and disadvantages of artificial grass in Canada.
Proffs
- Low long-term maintenance—no mowing, fertilizing, or regular watering
- Year-round green look—even through fall and early spring
- Water savings—no irrigation required
- Durable surface—stands up to foot traffic and pets
- Consistent appearance—no brown patches or mud
Nackdelar
- Higher upfront cost compared to natural grass
- Initial installation requires thoughtful site prep
- In very hot summer conditions (rare in Canada), surface heat can be noticeable
- Some homeowners prefer natural turf for environmental reasons
Does the shape of the grass blades affect the price of artificial turf?
According to MightyGrass, the shape of the grass blades has a negligible impact on the cost of artificial turf. However, the reality is that there are many different grass blade shapes available on the market, and each shape has a different price.
Please learn about common artificial turf options in the Canadian market.
| Shape of Blade Grass | Excellent For |
| S-Shaped | Lawns that don’t have lots of foot traffic |
| C-Shaped | Commercial or backyard use |
| U-Shaped | Moderate to heavy foot traffic lawns |
| V-Shaped | Springing up back quickly after being walked on |
| M-Shaped | Playing sports on |
| W-Shaped | Lawns with high heat exposure |
| Diamond Shape | Lawns with low to medium foot traffic |
| Omega-Shaped | Pets in the yard |
Are there price differences among different suppliers in Canada?
The artificial turf cost will also vary between the suppliers and the brands that are available in the Canadian market for artificial turf. Here is a breakdown of common brand and the range you can expect to pay:
- Easy Turf: $2 to $2.7
- Everlast: $2.68 to $6.74
- Onelawn: $3.03 to $9.78
- DuraPlay: $3.28 to $15.64
- PreGra: $3.51 to $5.26
- MegaGrass: $4.72 to $6.74
- EnvyPet: $4.99 to $9.44
- Perfect Turf: $5.39 to $6.74
- ProGreen: $5.93 to $15.38
Does artificial grass require maintenance in winter?
Artificial grass requires minimal winter maintenance. Snow can be left to melt naturally, and occasional debris removal is usually enough. Unlike natural lawns, there’s no risk of dead patches, mud, or spring re-seeding.
Is artificial grass a good option for pets in Canada?
Yes. Many homeowners choose artificial grass specifically for pets because it eliminates mud, drains efficiently, and is easy to clean. For best results, choose higher-density turf designed for heavy use and proper drainage.
Can I install artificial grass myself to save money?
DIY installation can reduce labor costs, but it requires proper base preparation and drainage. Poor installation can lead to uneven surfaces or water pooling, which may shorten turf lifespan. For larger or complex yards, professional installation is often more cost-effective long term.


