The short answer
Artificial turf is usually priced per square foot installed. As a typical estimate, residential landscape turf in the East Valley often falls somewhere around $8 to $15 per square foot, including removal, base and turf. Putting greens, pet systems and tight-access yards tend to cost more. These are rough ranges, not quotes.
What drives the price
- Square footage, and whether the job meets a contractor's minimum
- Removing existing grass, rock or old turf
- Grading, drainage and base depth
- Turf product: blade height, density, backing and heat features
- Infill type, especially for pets
- Borders, curbing and the number of cuts around patios, trees and walls
- Access: whether equipment fits through a side gate
Turf vs. keeping grass
Turf costs more up front than sod, but it removes ongoing costs: watering through the summer, overseeding, fertilizer, mowing and sprinkler repairs. How quickly it pays off depends on your water rates and how much you currently spend keeping the lawn alive.
Getting an accurate number
The only reliable price comes from measuring the yard. When comparing quotes, ask each installer for the turf brand and model, excavation depth, base material, infill and warranty, so you're comparing the same scope.