Many homeowners try to find the cost to install turf grass before investing. This is because they don’t know if turf grass is worth it or not. Is artificial turf worth it? How much will it actually cost in the Bay Area? And what affects the final price? These are exactly the questions homeowners ask every day on Reddit, Quora, and local forums.

At GLscape Inc., we install artificial turf across the San Francisco Bay Area, often alongside pavers, patios, and full landscape redesigns. In this guide, we’ll break down the real cost to install turf grass, explain common price ranges by project size, and help you understand what you’re actually paying for, no fluff, no surprises.

What Is the Average Cost to Install Turf Grass?

In the San Francisco Bay Area, the cost to install turf grass typically ranges from:

$15 to $30 per square foot installed

This price includes:

 

  • Materials (turf, base, infill)
  • Labor
  • Ground preparation
  • Basic edging and cleanup

 

Lower-cost projects are usually small, flat, and easy to access. Higher-end installations involve slopes, drainage work, pet turf, or premium materials.

How Much Does It Cost for Someone to Install Artificial Grass?

Many homeowners ask whether hiring a professional is significantly more expensive than DIY. The answer depends on the project.

 

For professional installation, most Bay Area homeowners spend:

  • $4,500–$9,000 for a standard backyard
  • $6,000–$12,000+ for larger or more complex yards

While DIY may reduce labor costs, it often leads to higher long-term expenses if base prep or drainage is done incorrectly. In our experience, poorly installed turf almost always needs repairs within a few years.

How Much Does It Cost to Have Turf Installed in Your Yard?

The cost to install turf grass in a yard depends on several factors:

1. Yard Size

Larger areas cost more overall but often less per square foot.

2. Site Conditions
  • Slopes increase labor and anchoring costs
  • Clay-heavy Bay Area soils require deeper base prep
  • Poor drainage adds material and labor costs
3. Turf Type

Standard landscape turf

  • Pet-friendly turf
  • Putting green turf

Higher-quality turf looks more realistic and lasts longer — but it does increase the cost to install turf grass.

How Much Is 1,000 Square Feet of Turf?

One of the most searched questions online is: How much is 1,000 square feet of turf?

In the Bay Area, expect:

  • $15,000–$30,000 total for 1,000 sq ft installed

Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Turf material: $6,000–$12,000
  • Base materials & prep: $4,000–$7,000
  • Labor: $5,000–$11,000

Large yards often benefit from professional installation because grading, compaction, and drainage become more critical at scale.

How Much Is 300 Sq Ft of Turf?

Smaller projects are common for side yards, dog runs, or between pavers.

For 300 sq ft, the cost to install turf grass is typically:

  • $4,500–$7,500 total

Smaller areas often have a higher per-square-foot cost due to:

  • Minimum labor charges
  • Equipment setup
  • Detailed cutting and edging

What’s Included in the Cost to Install Turf Grass?

Many homeowners assume turf pricing is just about the grass — but most of the value is below the surface.

A professional installation usually includes:

  • Excavation (3–5 inches deep)
  • Weed barrier fabric
  • Crushed rock or decomposed granite base
  • Mechanical compaction
  • Turf cutting, seaming, and fastening
  • Infill application
  • Final grooming

This base system is what prevents sinking, wrinkles, and drainage problems.

Why Bay Area Turf Installation Costs More Than Average

The cost to install turf grass in the Bay Area is higher than the national average for a few key reasons:

  • Higher labor rates
  • Strict drainage and grading requirements
  • Clay-heavy soils
  • Sloped properties
  • Permit or HOA requirements in some areas

While upfront costs may be higher, properly installed turf performs far better over time in our local conditions.

Is Artificial Turf Worth the Cost?

This is one of the most common Reddit and Quora questions — and the answer depends on long-term goals.

 

Artificial turf often pays for itself by:

  • Eliminating watering costs
  • Reducing lawn maintenance
  • Increasing usable outdoor space
  • Boosting property value

Most homeowners recover the cost to install turf grass within 5–7 years when compared to natural lawn upkeep in California.

Ways to Control Turf Installation Costs

If budget is a concern, here are expert-approved ways to manage costs:

  • Reduce turf area and combine with pavers
  • Choose mid-grade turf instead of premium styles
  • Install turf in phases
  • Improve site access to reduce labor time

At GLscape Inc., we design turf layouts that balance cost, durability, and aesthetics.

Final Thoughts:

The cost to install turf grass depends on correct preparation, proper drainage, and long-term performance. Cheap turf installations often fail early, while professional installs are designed to last 15–20 years or more. We would say this is a pretty neat investment for your home.

If you’re considering artificial turf for your Bay Area home and want a clear, honest estimate, GLscape Inc. is here to help.

 

Contact GLscape Inc. today for a customized turf installation quote and expert guidance tailored to your yard.