How much for lawn mower
How Much Does a Lawn Mower Cost in 2022? - Lawn Care Blog
How much you spend on a lawn mower depends on the kind of mower you need. If your lawn is small, you could opt for a low-cost reel mower for about $115 on average. However, if you need a riding mower for a large property, it would cost an average of $3,070.
The walk-behind mower, which is the most common style for homeowners, costs an average of $475. Robotic mowers (which work like a Roomba for your lawn) typically cost about $1,320 or even higher for certain models and brands.
In this article:
- Average costs
- Cost by type of lawn mower
- Other factors that affect cost
- Related tools
- Cost of professional lawn services
- FAQ
Average costs of lawn mowers in 2022
| Average reel mower cost | $115 |
| Average walk-behind mower cost | $475 |
| Average riding mower cost | $3,070 |
| Average robotic mower cost | $1,320 |
The most affordable option is the reel mower, with an average price of $115, followed by walk-behind mowers, which cost $475 on average. With an average cost of $1,320 and $3,070, respectively, robotic mowers and riding mowers are a lot more expensive—but they’re also more convenient.
All the average prices used in this article are based on the most current prices from manufacturers’ websites, as well as Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.
Cost by type of lawn mower
There are many different types of lawn mowers — it follows that they all have different price points. The kind of mower you want significantly impacts the cost. Below is detailed pricing information for different types of lawn mowers.
Reel lawn mower
| Cheapest reel mower | $80 |
| Average reel mower cost | $115 |
| Most expensive reel mower | $210 |
Reel lawn mowers are popular because they’re cheap, portable, and easy to use. They’re muscle-powered, meaning there is no motor.
You provide the force that makes the blades turn as you push the mower. Due to the physical effort required, reel mowers are best suited for small lawns.
Electric push lawn mower
| Cheapest electric push mower | $85 |
| Average electric push mower cost | $260 |
| Most expensive electric push mower | $620 |
Corded electric lawn mowers and lithium-ion battery-powered lawn mowers are the two types of electric push mowers. Although cordless (battery-powered) lawn mowers are suitable for lawns of all sizes because they’re not limited by cord length, corded models are often lighter and less expensive.
Gas push lawn mower
| Cheapest gas push mower | $220 |
| Average gas push mower cost | $320 |
| Most expensive gas push mower | $815 |
Although gas-powered lawn mowers are significantly heavier and more expensive than their electric counterparts, they are easy to maneuver and are not limited by cord range.
They are powerful enough to cut through dense, thick, or tall grass in less time.
When thinking about the cost of a gas mower, remember to factor in the cost of lawn mower maintenance over time, which includes fuel, oil changes, and filter changes.
Electric self-propelled lawn mower
| Cheapest electric SP mower | $320 |
| Average electric SP mower cost | $675 |
| Most expensive electric SP mower | $1,570 |
Self-propelled mowers look just like push mowers, but they’re easier on the user because the motor automatically drives the machine forward. All you have to do is stand behind the mower and guide it where you want it to go.
Electric, battery-powered self-propelled mowers tend to be expensive because it takes a very heavy-duty battery to power the self-propelling feature.
Gas self-propelled lawn mower
| Cheapest gas SP mower | $270 |
| Average gas SP mower cost | $630 |
| Most expensive gas SP mower | $3,310 |
Most self-propelled mowers are powered by gas.
Compared to their electric counterparts, gas options are cheaper and more convenient because they run for much longer on a tank of gas than electric models run on a single charge.
Again, though, a gas mower will cost you more in maintenance over time.
Robotic lawn mower
| Cheapest robotic mower | $630 |
| Average robotic mower cost | $1,320 |
| Most expensive robotic mower | $5,670 |
A robotic mower is entirely automatic, so it’s perfect for homeowners who spend much of their time away from home or just hate mowing the lawn. Robotic mowers look and operate just like a Roomba automatic vacuum. Some models use GPS to program specific routes, but most are guided by boundary wires that help them identify areas to mow.
Rear-engine riding mower
| Cheapest rear-engine riding mower | $1,800 |
| Average rear-engine riding mower cost | $3,195 |
| Most expensive rear-engine riding mower | $5,500 |
The rear-engine riding mower is for people who need more than a walk-behind mower but less than a full-fledged lawn tractor.
The engine is located in the rear of the mower behind the operator’s seat, while the mower deck is located under the operator’s seat. The mower deck is typically between 30 and 33 inches and is suited for properties less than 2.5 acres.
Lawn tractors
| Cheapest lawn tractor | $1,950 |
| Average lawn tractor cost | $3,515 |
| Most expensive lawn tractor | $5,500 |
Lawn tractors are the most popular kind of riding mower. Because of their expansive mowing deck (between 30 and 60 inches), they are a good choice for large properties. Most lawn tractors can be equipped with numerous attachments for tasks such as snow removal, plowing, or hauling.
Zero-turn lawn mower
| Cheapest zero-turn mower | $3,000 |
| Average zero-turn mower cost | $5,050 |
| Most expensive zero-turn mower | $7,600 |
The zero-turn lawn mower is known as the king of lawn mowers.
Its ability to rotate and make sharp turns allows it to get closer to obstacles and provides exceptional all-around cutting performance.
Another advantage of the zero-turn is its speed (up to 10 mph) and maneuverability, which allow the user to mow the lawn in the shortest amount of time. The zero-turn has a steep learning curve, is not attachment friendly, and doesn’t work very well on bumpy, uneven lawns.
Other factors that affect cost
The prices of products usually do not go up for no reason; several factors drive them up. In the case of lawn mowers, product features and specifications are the deciding factors. Below are the various factors that affect the cost of a lawn mower (other than the basic type, which we went over above).
Power source
Lawn mowers have different power sources, hence the differences in how they work and how much they cost. For push mowers, the most common choice of homeowners, your power source options are:
- Corded electric: Cheapest
- Gas-powered: Mid-level pricing
- Battery-powered: Most expensive
Be prepared to spend more if you choose a lawn mower with higher voltage (for cordless electric models), higher amperage (for corded electric models), or a larger engine (for gas-powered lawn mowers).
Cutting width
A lawn mower’s cutting performance and speed largely depend on its cutting width, which is the width of its mowing deck. The cutting width determines how much ground a mower can cover with a single pass. Mowers with a wider cutting width mow in less time but cost more and are harder to maneuver.
Most walk-behind mowers have a cutting width of 14 to 22 inches, which is suitable for home use, while the cutting width of most riding mowers ranges from 30 to 61 inches.
Fuel and battery capacity
How long a lawn mower can run before it needs to be recharged or refueled depends on battery life and fuel capacity. Usually, the longer a mower’s battery life or the larger its fuel tank, the more that mower will cost.
An average riding lawn mower model has a fuel tank with a capacity of 1 to 5 liters, and a walk-behind mower has a fuel tank that holds between 0.25 and 0.75 liters.
Typically, you can get battery-powered lawn mowers with a maximum run time of 30-60 minutes and up to 90 minutes in more expensive models.
Speed
Speed is another crucial factor that can affect the cost of a mower. Self-propelled mowers, which allow you to adjust the speed to your preferred pace, tend to be more expensive than manual models.
The same goes for riding mowers. Lawn tractors and rear-mounted engines typically have a top speed of 4 to 9 mph, but the most expensive in the category, zero-turn mowers, can run even faster.
Brands
Buying from certain well-known brands will drive up the price, as they have earned a reputation over the years for producing high-quality, reliable engines and lawn mowers. Brands that tend to be more expensive include:
| Brand | Low-end cost | High-end cost |
| Honda | $470 | $1,650 |
| Ego | $340 | $830 |
| Toro | $400 | $7,230 |
| Craftsman | $185 | $945 |
| Troy Bilt | $300 | $4,400 |
| Greenworks | $135 | $5,500 |
| John Deere | $3,000 | $11,990 |
| Ryobi | $300 | $7,500 |
| Sun Joe | $120 | $600 |
| Ariens | $2,900 | $7,000 |
| Husqvarna | $1,200 | $5,000 |
Using the right tools is necessary to ensure a healthy lawn and make lawn care easier.
While you’re shopping for a new lawn mower, it might be a good time to look at other essential lawn care tools, too.
Leaf blower
Leaf blowers cost between $75 and $250. A leaf blower lets you easily clean up leaves from your lawn in fall, so they don’t build up and suffocate your grass. You can also use a leaf blower to clear off hard surfaces, such as your driveway and sidewalk, and to blow away lawn clippings after mowing.
String trimmer
The typical price range for string trimmers is around $80 to $200. Most lawn mowers cannot cut grass around the edge of your lawn or in tight corners. This is where the string trimmer (aka weed eater) comes in—it reaches the grass and weeds in corners and around fences, walls, walkways, and other obstacles.
Sprayer
You can get a lawn sprayer within the range of $15 to $85. A sprayer is a tool for broadcasting herbicides and pesticides across your lawn. Sprayers make weed and pest control in your lawn much easier.
Cost of professional lawn services
Sure, doing yard work yourself saves you a lot of money, but wouldn’t it be easier to hire someone else to mow the lawn? Let’s look at the cost of some of the most popular lawn care services so you can compare costs and decide if the extra cash is worth the time you would save.
| Service | Average cost |
| Lawn mowing | $120 |
| Aeration | $145 |
| Dethatching | $190 |
| Weeding | $80 |
| Leaf removal | $280 |
| Lawn fertilization | $235 |
FAQ
1. How long should a lawn mower last?
Most lawn mowers can last ten years or more with regular maintenance. If you don’t take care of your mower, though, it will probably last about 4-5 years or even as little as 1-2 years.
2. Do lawn mowers need oil changes?
Yes, gas lawn mowers need regular oil changes.
You should change the oil after about 20 to 50 hours of operation.
One of the biggest advantages of purchasing an electric lawn mower is that there’s no oil to change.
3. When is the best time to buy a lawn mower?
To get the best prices: Early fall is the best time of year to buy a lawn mower if you’re hunting for a bargain. You’ll likely find some excellent savings on equipment as retailers lower prices to clear their spring and summer inventories.
To get variety: Early spring is the best time to look for various (and new!) lawn mower models. This is when the supply of lawn mowers in stores is at its greatest. The latest models are available then, but there are no longer any special discounts.
Final thoughts
There is a wide variety of lawn mowers on the market, all with different specifications and price tags. The average costs provided in this guide should show you how much to budget for the specific type of mower you’re looking for.
Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash
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Ayoola Azzan
Ayoola Azzan is a versatile writer and investment enthusiast who hails from Nigeria. He loves developing an impactful course and enjoys meditating when at leisure.
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Pricing Guide: How Much Does a Lawn Mower Cost?
You don’t have to spend a lot of green to keep your lawn green and trim. The cheapest lawn mower, a manual push reel mower, could cost as little as $57. The average cost of a gas-powered lawn mower is $1,068. On the high end of the spectrum, an intelligent robot mower with special features can cost up to $17,063.
Most homeowners with a typical-sized yard will be better off with a walk-behind mower, which costs $363 on average. The average cost of a riding lawn mower suited for large properties is $2,450. While some robot mowers can reach astronomical prices like the one mentioned above, the average price for a standard model is $1,470.
How much you spend on a lawn mower will depend on your yard’s size, the type of grass you have, the power source you want to use, and the brand you choose. We’ve broken down typical costs of different kinds of lawn mowers so you can figure out which one is best for both your needs and your budget.
How Much Do Various Types of Lawn Mowers Cost?
- Average reel mower cost: $104
- Average walk-behind lawn mower cost: $363
- Average riding lawn mower cost: $2,450
- Average robot mower cost: $1,470
Reel mowers are the most affordable type of mower, with an average cost of $104. The most expensive options are riding lawn mowers or robot lawn mowers, premium models of which can cost almost $20,000.
Most fancy lawn mowers don’t reach those extreme prices, though. Mid-range riding mowers cost closer to $2,450, and the average cost of a robot lawn mower is $1,470.
Walk-behind lawn mowers, a category that includes manual push lawn mowers and self-propelled mowers, fall in the middle with an average price of $363. These mowers are the most common for residential use.
To calculate the costs given throughout this guide, we used prices from Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and the manufacturers’ websites. The high-end costs are the highest prices we could find from those sources, while the low-end costs are the lowest prices we found.
The average costs come from averaging the prices of the first 10 featured products in each category on Amazon, Lowe’s, and Home Depot’s websites.
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Cost Estimator by Mower Power Source
Manual and self-propelled walk-behind lawn mowers come in gas-powered and electric (corded or cordless) models. Self-propelled models cost significantly more than their manual counterparts with the same power source.
Reel mowers are a more affordable manual push option, but their only power source is you, so they take a lot more work to use.
| TYPE OF LAWN MOWER | LOW-END COST | HIGH-END COST | AVERAGE COST |
| Reel Mower | $57 | $402 | $104 |
| Electric push mower | $80 | $2,036 | $241 |
| Gas push mower | $140 | $567 | $265 |
| Gas self-propelled mower | $169 | $2,080 | $372 |
| Electric Self-Propelled Mower | $328 | $831 | $574 |
Each power source comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.
We’ll go over the details of each one to help you decide which lawn mower power source will give you the best bang for your buck.
Reel lawn mowers
Photo Credit: Rafael Castillo / Flickr / CC BY 2.0Reel lawn mowers don’t come with a built-in power source. As you push a reel mower across your grass, you cause the blades to spin. For this reason, reel mowers take quite a bit of effort to push and may not be suitable for large spaces. Reel mowers are, however, extremely affordable compared to gas or electric mowers.
The smallest and cheapest reel lawn mower we found costs about $57, while the largest and most expensive will have a price tag closer to $402. Most reel mowers will have a middling cost of around $104.
Pros of reel:
✓ Inexpensive
✓ Most eco-friendly type of mower
✓ Compact for storage
✓ Can keep going as long as you do
Cons of reel:
✗ Takes a lot of strength to push
✗ May not work well on very tall or thick grass
Electric mowers
Photo Credit: Mike Prosser / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.
0Both corded and battery-powered lawn mowers fall into the electric category. Corded electric models tend to be the cheapest and lightest options available since they don’t need a fuel tank or battery. Battery-powered electric mowers can cost more than gas counterparts without being as powerful.
You can find small corded electric manual push lawn mowers for as low as $80 or tricked-out battery-powered models running as high as $2,036. The average price of both types of electric mowers is about $241.
Self-propelled electric lawn mowers typically cost between $328 and $831. Your standard mid-range self-propelled option will be about $574.
Pros of electric mowers:
✓ Eco-friendly
✓ Quiet
✓ Low-maintenance
✓ Lighter than gas
✓ Easier to start and use than gas
Cons of electric mowers:
✗ Lacking in power
✗ Batteries have limited run times
✗ Cords limit movement
Get Battery-Powered Mowers From Sunday
Gas mowers
Photo Credit: Combsy / Flickr / CC BY 2.
0Gas lawn mowers, whether manual or self-propelled, tend to be a lot more powerful than electric mowers. Gas-powered mowers also have better mobility since they don’t rely on a cord or a battery with a short run time. Even with these benefits, an average gas lawn mower costs less than a battery-powered model.
Gas-powered manual push lawn mowers range in price from $140 to $567. Most mid-range options will cost around $265.
Expect a higher price if you want a self-propelled gas mower. For the added convenience, you would pay about $169 for a budget choice and about $2,080 for the fanciest version on the market. The average cost of a typical gas-powered self-propelled lawn mower is $372.
Pros of gas mowers:
✓ Most powerful engines
✓ Unlimited range
✓ Run longer on one tank of gas than battery-powered mowers do on one charge
Cons of gas mowers:
✗ High-maintenance
✗ Loud
✗ Heavy
✗ Produce harmful emissions
Cost Estimator by Type of Lawn Mower
Aside from standard walk-behind mowers, there are many other types of lawn mowers that cost more.
Those more premium options include riding lawn mowers — lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, or rear engine mowers — robot mowers, and mulching mowers.
| TYPE OF LAWN MOWER | LOW-END COST | HIGH-END COST | AVERAGE COST |
| Mulching mower | $110 | $2,191 | $303 |
| Robot mower | $574 | $17,063 | $1,470 |
| Rear engine riding mower | $1,299 | $4,539 | $2,080 |
| Lawn tractor | $1,349 | $3,999 | $1,985 |
| Zero-turn riding mower | $2,399 | $15,000 | $3,284 |
Riding lawn mowers
Photo Credit: Daniel M.
Hendricks / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0A riding lawn mower makes caring for a large yard much easier because it gets you off your feet while you work for what could be hours at a time.
There are three basic styles of riding mower: lawn tractor, zero-turn lawn mowers, and rear engine lawn mowers. Each has its own price range and characteristics that make it suited for properties with different needs.
Regardless of the style, most riding mowers run on gas engines. There are a few reliable battery-powered riding mowers on the market, but they tend to be more expensive than comparable gas mowers with more horsepower and longer run times. Especially for large lawns, a gas riding mower is the more viable option.
Mulching lawn mowers
Photo Credit: osseous / Flickr / CC BY 2.0Walk-behind mulching lawn mowers shred leaves and grass clippings as you mow. They then distribute the mulch back into your lawn to help improve soil health. Like regular push lawn mowers and self-propelled mowers, mulching mowers come in electric and gas models with various special features.
Small, corded electric mulching mowers are affordable, starting at just $110. More expensive mulching mowers, particularly self-propelled, battery-powered, or high-horsepower models, can cost as much as $2,191.
The average mulching mower, including the different types and power sources, typically costs about $303.
Robot lawn mowers
Photo Credit: Tool Dude / Flickr / CC BY 2.0With a robot lawn mower, the only work you have to do is install the perimeter wire to show the robot where to go. These are the best mowers for homeowners who don’t have the time to maintain their lawn, but don’t have the money to hire a weekly pro lawn care service.
Simple robot lawn mowers suited for small yards are affordable at about $574, but these models may not be as reliable as their more premium cousins. Large robot mowers packed with bells and whistles, such as GPS guidance or anti-theft features, can cost as much as $17,063.
Your typical robot mower costs much less, with an average price of $1,470.
Rear-engine riding mowers
Photo Credit: Karen / Flickr / CC BY 2.0Rear-engine riding mowers are similar to lawn tractors in that you drive them with a steering wheel. But rear-engine riders are usually smaller, less powerful, and easier to maneuver, (though still not as maneuverable as a zero-turn lawn mower).
Because of their weaker engines, rear engine riding mowers can’t pull heavy attachments like a lawn tractor can. Their lack of power and smaller cutting widths make rear engine riding mowers less expensive than other riding mowers.
The smallest and simplest rear engine riding mowers can be as affordable as $1,299, while the largest tend to be closer to $4,539. The average cost across all rear engine riders is about $2,080.
Lawn tractors
Photo Credit: Charles & Hudson / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0The most common type of riding lawn mower is the lawn tractor, which you control with a steering wheel.
Lawn tractors are more stable on slopes, and the many attachments make them more versatile. Those attachments allow you to use a lawn tractor as a snowplow, trailer, dethatcher, core aerator, or other lawn maintenance tool.
For the lawn tractor itself, you can expect to pay between $1,349 and $3,999. The average cost of a mid-range lawn tractor is about $1,985.
Zero-turn riding mowers
Photo Credit: Charles & Hudson / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0Zero-turn mowers have wheels that turn at sharp angles, so they can turn a full 360 degrees. As a result, they’re more maneuverable than lawn tractors and better for yards with tight corners or lots of obstacles such as landscape beds, trees, and hardscapes.
Steering can be difficult to get used to with a zero-turn: You use two lap bars instead of a familiar steering wheel. While zero-turn mowers aren’t as attachment-capable as lawn tractors, they tend to be significantly faster, which can be useful for especially large properties.
Zero-turn lawn mowers are usually more expensive than lawn tractors or rear engine riding mowers. The most affordable models cost about $2,399, while the top-drawer options can reach $15,000. Most of the time, you’ll pay about $3,284 for a zero-turn lawn mower for residential use.
Cost Estimator by Manufacturer
Some popular lawn mower brands are well-known for making high-quality tools, and those brand names can drive up the price of a lawn mower. But some brands prioritize affordability while still producing reliable mowers.
We’ve gathered the highest and lowest costs from some of the most prominent brands to rank each maker from most to least affordable. Note: These rankings take only pricing into account and don’t reflect quality or brand-exclusive features.
Walk-behind lawn mower brands
| BRAND | LOWEST PRICE | HIGHEST PRICE | AFFORDABILITY RANK |
| BLACK+DECKER | $80 | $486 | 1 |
| Ryobi | $99 | $599 | 2 |
| PowerSmart | $169 | $400 | 3 |
| Sun Joe | $99 | $749 | 4 |
| Greenworks | $107 | $897 | 5 |
| WORX | $252 | $560 | 6 |
| CRAFTSMAN | $182 | $942 | 7 |
| Snapper | $277 | $699 | 8 |
| Kobalt | $169 | $1,200 | 9 |
| Troy-Bilt | $199 | $1,143 | 10 |
| EGO | $339 | $831 | 11 |
| Husqvarna | $250 | $1,199 | 12 |
| Toro | $269 | $1,099 | 13 |
| Makita | $349 | $999 | 14 |
| Honda | $419 | $1,319 | 15 |
When it comes to walk-behind (push or self-propelled) lawn mowers, the most affordable brand is BLACK+DECKER.
All B+D mowers are electric, and they come in corded and battery-powered models. Smaller BLACK+DECKER mowers are only about $80, while their largest and most expensive option is around $486.
Honda is maybe the most reputable maker of lawn mowers, especially when it comes to engine quality. In fact, several other lawn mower brands use Honda engines. Because they’re powerful and well-made, Honda walk-behind mowers are the most expensive on the market, ranging from $419 to $1,319.
Riding lawn mower brands
| BRAND | LOWEST PRICE | HIGHEST PRICE | AFFORDABILITY RANK |
| Husqvarna | $1,599 | $5,450 | 1 |
| John Deere | $1,599 | $5,999 | 2 |
| Cub Cadet | $1,599 | $8,199 | 3 |
| Ariens | $2,899 | $6,999 | 4 |
Husqvarna makes some of the most highly acclaimed lawn tractors and zero-turn riding mowers on the market.
They tend to be durable, powerful, and packed with useful features. The best part? They’re also more affordable than other riding lawn mowers, with a low-end price of $1,599 and a high-end price of $5,450.
Ariens specializes in riding lawn mowers, and many of its models have commercial-grade construction and features. These durable machines are a higher-end option for homeowners who are serious about lawn care. The cheapest Ariens riding mower is about $2,899, while the most expensive is about $6,999.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Even lawn mowers of the same brand and type with the same power source can have drastically different price points depending on the specifications. Larger, more powerful, or longer running mowers cost more. Combinations of multiple top-of-the-line specs result in much more expensive mowers.
These are some of the important specs that can make a lawn mower cost more or less than other comparable models:
Power source
Photo Credit: H.
Michael Karshis / Flickr / CC BY 2.0For a battery-powered mower, we measure the battery’s voltage. A battery with a higher voltage provides more power. In a corded electric mower, the power measurement is the motor’s amperage. For gas-powered, we look at the size of the engine, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), to indicate power.
While you’re shopping for a lawn mower, keep this in mind: A higher voltage, amperage, or cc equals a higher price tag. If your yard has especially thick, tall grass and you think you need a high-powered mower to force your way through it, prepare to spend.
Get Battery-Powered Mowers From Sunday
Cutting width
Photo Credit: Charles & Hudson / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0A mower’s cutting width describes how much grass it can cut in one pass. So, the larger the cutting width, the less time it will take you to mow your lawn. Mowers with larger cutting widths will cost more.
Most walk-behind mowers for residential use range from 14 to 22 inches wide.
Typical riding mowers have cutting widths between 30 inches on the small end and 61 inches on the large end.
We recommend compact walk-behind mowers for small yards with lots of obstacles to maneuver around. For large properties, especially of an acre or more, you’re better off with a larger riding mower to make the job go faster.
Fuel capacity or run time
Photo Credit: Rusty Clark – 100k Photos / Flickr / CC BY 2.0Fuel capacity in a gas lawn mower and battery run time in an electric one determine how long the mower can run without stopping to refuel or recharge. Mowers with a larger fuel capacity or a battery that runs for a longer time will cost more.
With a larger fuel tank, a gas mower can run longer. Most walk-behind mowers have a tank that holds 1 to 3 quarts of fuel, while riding mowers usually hold between 1 and 5 gallons, depending on the size of the machine.
Battery-powered power tools, especially large ones like lawn mowers, take a lot of juice, so their batteries don’t typically run for very long on one charge.
You can expect a battery-powered lawn mower to run for 30 minutes to an hour — or closer to 90 minutes if you’re willing to pay more for a better battery.
Speed
Photo Credit: Brian Mullender / Flickr / CC BY 2.0The speed of riding mowers or self-propelled lawn mowers can affect their cost, too. Self-propelled mowers usually have variable speed settings so you can adjust the pace to match your own walking speed.
Riding lawn mowers — including lawn tractors, zero-turns, and rear engine riders — usually move in forward and reverse. Their max forward speeds ranges from 4 to 9 mph, with zero-turns on the faster end of that spectrum.
With a self-propelled mower, you usually pay more for a higher number of speed settings. For a riding mower, a faster model will cost more than a slower one.
Brand name engines
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0Name-brand engines from reputable manufacturers such as Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Kohler, or Kawasaki will raise the price of a gas mower.
No matter which retailer’s website you’re browsing, the mower’s product page will usually note if it features a high-quality engine like one of these.
Other than the specific brand, the type of engine a gas mower has can affect its cost. There are two basic options: 2-stroke (aka 2-cycle) engines and 4-stroke (aka 4-cycle) engines. The difference lies in the way the pistons work, particularly how many strokes it takes each engine to produce power.
Mowers with 2-stroke engines are the more affordable option. Since they run on a combination of gasoline and oil, you have to mix the fuel yourself or find a premixed blend. These engines tend to produce more power than their 4-stroke counterparts.
Mowers with 4-stroke engines are usually more expensive, and for good reason. They’re easier to fuel because they run on straight gasoline, they’re quieter, and they’re more fuel-efficient. One downside: 4-stroke engines are harder to maintain because they need regular oil changes.
If you’re shopping for an electric mower, you’ll want to consider brushless motors. A brushless motor increases battery efficiency and can be more durable than a standard brushed motor. Brushless motors also will raise the price of an electric mower.
Extra bells and whistles will also increase your lawn mower’s versatility and price. It’s up to you to decide whether your property needs these features badly enough to justify the added cost.
Ergonomics
Photo Credit: Roger Mommaerts / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0The same ergonomics concept that governs your office chair also affects your lawn equipment. If you’ll be working in the yard for hours at a time, you want to keep your body as comfortable as possible to avoid injury or future chronic pain.
Walk-behind lawn mowers designed with user comfort in mind feature things like foam-padded grips so you don’t have to clench your fingers as much or adjustable handles so people of different heights don’t have to hunch over.
Ergonomics are even more important for riding lawn mowers, which people use for longer stretches of time. Common comfort features in riding mowers include seat cushions, high-backed seats for back support, armrests, and vibration dampeners to prevent fatigue. Look for these extra features if you want a mower that’s easier to use, but keep in mind that that added comfort will increase the price.
Easy operation
Photo Credit: gfpeck / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0When it comes to gas lawn mowers, one of the most common complaints is that they’re hard to start. You sometimes have to pull the choke cord several times before the engine will turn, especially in cold weather.
Many mowers bypass this problem altogether with an electric start. Instead of using a manual crank cord, the ignition starts with a simple flip of a switch or press of a button. Because electric starts have more complicated moving parts than manual, they can be difficult to repair and maintain. However, an electric start is still ultimately more convenient.
A hydrostatic transmission is another mechanical feature that makes a lawn mower easier to use. It makes changing speed and direction easier, resulting in better maneuverability. A hydrostatic transmission is usually more expensive and more complicated to maintain than other types of transmissions.
Multiple cutting height adjustments
Photo Credit: Phil Roeder / Flickr / CC BY 2.0With some mowers (either walk-behind or riding), users can raise or lower the mowing deck to adjust for different grass types and lengths. In case you let your grass get extra long between cuts or you use multiple species of grass in your yard, being able to adjust the cutting height could be a useful bonus for your mower.
Usually, you’ll adjust the deck with a single or dual lever that should be simple to operate. The easier the controls are to use and the wider the range of heights, the more expensive a mower will be. That goes for both push and riding mowers.
Deck washing system
Photo Credit: Phil Gwinn / Flickr / CC BY 2.
0When grass clippings get stuck and coat your riding lawn mower’s underbelly, the blades and mower deck can rust over time. It’s important to clean the deck regularly, but getting under a heavy mower can be difficult.
To make upkeep easier, some riding mowers come with a convenient deck washing system. With a built-in deck wash, all you have to do is hook your garden hose up to the mower’s wash ports and run the mower’s engine until you don’t see any more grass clippings coming from the discharge chute.
Of course, a deck washing system is another feature that will cost you
FAQ About Lawn Mower Costs
1. What is the best lawn mower for the price?
According to our research, the best lawn mower for the price is the gas-powered 170 cc, 21-inch model from PowerSmart. Learn more about the 10 best lawn mowers for the money.
2. How much does lawn mower repair cost?
Depending on the necessary work and parts, you should expect to pay between $60 and $95 for a professional lawn mower repair.
3. How much does professional lawn mowing cost?
The actual cost of lawn mowing depends on the size of your yard and labor costs where you live, but on national average you can expect to pay $29 to $65 overall or $33 to $70 per hour. Get accurate lawn mowing quotes specific to your ZIP code from LawnStarter.
Conclusion
The type of lawn mower you need — and how much you have to pay for it — depends on the size and condition of your yard as well as your personal preferences. The average price of a lawn mower is $1,068.
That overall average price includes reel mowers with an average cost of $104, walk-behind mowers with an average cost of $363, riding mowers with an average cost of $2,450, and robot lawn mowers with an average cost of $1,470.
Specifications like the mower’s power, cutting width, run time, and special features will all affect the price.
LawnStarter participates in Get Sunday’s affiliate advertising program. LawnStarter may earn revenue from products promoted in this article.
Main Photo Credit: r reeve / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
Jordan Ardoin
Jordan Ardoin is a writer, editor, and classical literature student based in Colorado. When she isn't reading or writing, she enjoys goofing off with her cats and spending time in nature.
Posts by Jordan Ardoin
top-10 rating according to KP
A lawn mower is useful to any summer resident, even if his plot is only a few acres. The traditional choice is gas-powered lawn mowers. They are much easier to operate, more reliable and many will undertake to repair them. It is precisely about the choice of such garden and country gadgets that we will talk in the KP rating.
CP Top 10 Ranking
1. Husqvarna LC 140S
Husqvarna LC 140S. Photo: yandex.market.ru This company does not do bad things.
This rule also applies to lawn mowers. Good motor, all the necessary functions are on board. The reliability of this model is legendary - it will definitely last for many seasons, but do not forget about the annual maintenance. Otherwise, you can get into a major repair.
Main characteristics
| type | Self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | cm / 25-75 mm | 30.5 kg | Stratton petrol 4-stroke, 125cc, 2.4hp
Pros and cons
Reliability, engine
Narrow working width, no side ejection
2. CHAMPION LM5127BS
CHAMPION LM5127BS. Photo: yandex.market.ru An excellent lightweight and maneuverable mower for those who do not want to mess with the grass catcher and compost, but who knows how to mulch.
At the same time, the model has a very solid working width and a powerful engine, and the price does not bite.
Main characteristics
| type | Wheelled wheelbone |
| Width / Speasing height | cm / 25-75 mm | 22.5 kg |
| Engine | Briggs and Stratton gasoline 4x, 125 cm³, 3 hp |
Plus and minuses
Powerful engine, high performance
Sorry, which is not self -propelled
9000 3. Huter GLM-6.0ST Huter GLM-6.0ST. Photo: yandex.market.ruA German brand that manufactures equipment in China. The mower has a very powerful engine, a large swath width and at the same time weighs relatively little. It also has all the basic bells and whistles on board.
Main characteristics
| type | Self-propelled Self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | 53 cm / 25-75 mm | 28 kg | 9ATH 6 hp
Pros and cons
Powerful motor, high performance
Complains about problems with spare parts
4.
CHAMPION LM4627 CHAMPION LM4627. Photo: yandex.market.ru This is a heaped up budget model that can also do everything: sideways, back, into the grass collector, mulching. The engine is unnamed Chinese, but quite solid and powerful, no complaints have been noticed about it yet. This mower can be recommended to beginner summer residents who want to try all the delights of a civilized lawn care.
Main features
| Type | self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | 46 cm / 25-75 mm |
| Weight | 32 kg |
| Engine | Benzin 4x Tact, 139 cm, 3.5 hp |
pluses and PERSUARY
Low cost, self-propelled
Too heavy
5. Makita PLM4628N
Makita PLM4628N. Photo: yandex.market.ru Proven version from a well-known Japanese manufacturer. Can literally do everything. Self-propelled, has an excellent engine, has side and back ejection, soft grass catcher, can mulch.
Owner reviews are great. But the price is big.
Main characteristics
| type | Self-propelled Self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | cm / 25-75 mm |
| Stratton petrol 4-stroke, 140cc, 2.6hp |
Pros and cons
Reliability, engine
Heavy, difficult to buy, quickly dismantled, there are complaints about a fragile side ejection nozzle
6. PATRIOT PT 42 LS
PATRIOT PT 42 LS. Photo: yandex.market.ruInexpensive self-propelled mower for beginners. Despite the cost, it has many useful features. Able to mulch, has a rear ejection and a grass collector. Find!
The main characteristics
| type | Self-propelled self-propelled room |
| Width / Speasing height | 42 cm / 30-75 mm | 27 kg |
| Engine | Basin 4x Tact, 123 cm³, 3. 5 hp |
Plus and minuses
Low cost, self-propelled
NO EXPECTION
7. HUTER GLM-3.5LT 9000 HUTER GLM-3.5LT . Photo: yandex.market.ru
Cheap and cheerful. This mower has only the essentials: a powerful engine, rear ejection, grass catcher, but reliable and inexpensive! But be prepared for the fact that this model is very noisy in operation, even by the standards of a gasoline lawnmower.
The main characteristics
| type | Wheelled wheel |
| Width / Speasing height | 42 cm / 25-75 mm |
Pros and cons
Cheap, powerful engine
It is a pity that it is not self-propelled, there is no side discharge and mulching
8.
McCULLOCH M46-110R Classic McCULLOCH M46-110R Classic. Photo: yandex.market.ru A reliable model, which has already proven itself well, is quite unpretentious. It has everything you need on board, copes with a site of almost any complexity, a strong middle peasant.
The main characteristics
| type | Self-propelled Self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | 46 cm / 30-80 mm | 30 kg 9ATH0015 Engine | Basin 4x, 110 cm³, 2.7 hp |
Plus and minuses
Reliable, productive
There is no mulching and release to the side of
9. Patriot RT 52 BS
Patriot RT RT 52 BS.
Photo: yandex.market.ru Another "Mercedes" among lawn mowers, competitor Makita PLM4628N from our review. Big, powerful, productive, can throw the grass back, can into the grass collector, can sideways, can mulch - full stuffing!
Expensive, bulky
10. Hyundai L 4310S
Hyundai L 4310S. Photo: yandex.market.ruA motorist here would joke that this is the only case when Hyundai drives ahead of him. But, in fact, we have a very inexpensive reliable mower here, from a company that can definitely be trusted in matters of gasoline technology. Everything you need with it: throwing the grass back into the grass collector, mulching.
Main features
| Type | Self-propelled |
| Width / Speasing height | 42 cm / 25-75 mm |
| Weight | 28 kg |
| HYUNDAI gasoline 4x, 3 |
Pros and cons
Reliability
No side ejection of grass
How to choose a petrol lawn mower
Practical advice on choosing a petrol lawn mower will be given by Alexey Kharlamov , who works as a mechanic at the MTD service center.
How much it eats, how much it rushes
The engine is the heart of absolutely any mower. The success of the entire operation depends on how well it is made and combined with its tasks. Today, the topic of engine design can no longer be touched upon, since four-stroke engines have almost completely ousted their two-stroke counterparts from the market. They work more stable, consume less fuel, rumble quieter. For a small suburban area, a light mower with a 1-3 hp engine should be suitable; for large areas, it is worth considering more serious models with a power of 3-5 hp.
Major manufacturers of sophisticated equipment such as Honda, Hyundai, Husqvarna, Stihl produce excellent engines for their mowers themselves. The rest put third-party products, the coolest and most popular are American Briggs & Stratton motors.
For eight years I have used a mower with such an engine, it is so unpretentious that even without sensible preservation for the winter, it starts the first time at the beginning of the season, and all maintenance consisted only in cleaning the filter and changing the oil.
My mower fell to the death of the brave - in the ninth year of use, I ran into a sledgehammer in tall grass, otherwise it would still serve.
Top tip: do not be too lazy to inquire about the engine of your future lawnmower, well-known names such as Kawasaki are familiar to everyone, but there are no less worthy ones, such as Kohler.
Drive
Self-propelled mowers are now very common. This is a very convenient feature, because the lawn mower weighs an average of 30 kg and not every summer resident will be happy to push such a colossus in front of him. It is only important to consider that in this case, some of the engine power will be spent in order to set the wheels in motion. A mower without a drive will be more maneuverable, but choose one that weighs less, no more than 25kg.
Working width
This parameter affects the performance of your mower and varies between 40-50 cm, but can be more or less. A wide mower will not fit everywhere. Well, and one more important factor: the larger the working width, the larger the body of the mower, the more powerful the motor should be, the heavier and more expensive it is.
Where to put the grass?
Generally mowers have two types of grass ejection: rear and side. Side throw is optimal when mulching, that is, if you prefer not to collect grass, but to chop it up to a state of organic matter for fertilizer. The rear ejection is optimal for working with the grass catcher. It is best when the mower has both types of ejection, if there is only a rear ejection, then make sure that the mower has a cover that closes the ejection, otherwise everything will fly at you without a grass catcher.
Cutting height
Lots vary, so height adjustment is a must. If the lawn is even and well-groomed, then we set the height lower, if there are potholes or tall grass has grown, we make it higher, otherwise the knives will touch the ground or mow in tufts, or the engine will not cope. An adjustment of 25-75mm will suffice.
Autostart
Starting the engine from the button is a very nice bonus, although not the most necessary one.
This complicates the design a little, besides, you need to additionally roll the battery with you. The main thing is not to forget to take it off for the winter and store it in a warm place.
Manual petrol lawn mowers Stihl: model range, characteristics, photo
Lawn mowers are very often used for cutting grass, but in the most neglected and hard-to-reach places it is necessary to work with lawn mowers. Stihl produces high-quality units that are highly reliable, economical, powerful and have excellent ergonomics. They are able to cope with perennial grasses and small shrubs.
The company focuses on advanced technology and the reliability of its products. The manufacturer also cares about the quality of customer service. This is evidenced by a developed network of dealer centers located in 160 countries around the world, and their total number exceeds 35 thousand.
Stihl manufactures lawn mowers, for which a separate Viking brand has been created.
Under its own brand, it produces exactly lawn mowers of various capacities. They are used as an addition to lawn mowers and only if it is necessary to quickly touch up certain places after the main haircut or mow too high grasses and shrubs before work.
Also well suited where conventional lawn mowers simply cannot be used. Such a tool is still quite often used in public utilities, since their price is low, and they can easily process small areas where it is not necessary to adhere to a certain height.
Benefits of Stihl lawn mowers:
- They are lightweight, making them easy to transport;
- Compact dimensions;
- Simple and reliable design;
- Capable of handling perennial grasses and even small shrubs, making them truly versatile.
Due to the need to keep the lawn mower constantly on the weight, it is impossible to process a large area at one time, which is why such units are inferior to self-propelled lawn mowers under the Viking brand.
This is the main disadvantage.
Features of the device and operation
The design of the braid is incredibly simple. It is an engine that is connected to a tube-shaped body and rotates the cutting mechanism through it. Haircut with light models is carried out due to a special thread that is attached to the rotor and rotates at high speed. In the powerful series, the mechanism is partially similar to lawn mowers. The body is equipped with an adjustable handle to adjust the scythe to the height of any user.
All lawnmower models are also equipped with a special shoulder strap, as even the lightest model is extremely difficult to hold on weight. But with a special belt, the task is no more difficult than carrying a regular backpack.
Read more about the features and technologies used in the technical data table.
Model range
The model range from Stihl is quite diverse.
As power increases, models are equipped with additional technologies for more efficient and easier work. We describe the technical characteristics and features of each specific model.
Lightweight
Lightweight lawn mowers have good performance and can handle heavily overgrown areas on their own. However, they are best suited specifically for finalizing the lawn after a lawn mower, working in hard-to-reach places, or for cutting small areas with tall grass. Only technologies that are introduced from a certain model are inscribed in features, and all subsequent ones will have them.
Specifications for Lightweight Hand Lawn Mowers Style:
| Model | fs 38 | fs 45 C-E | fs 50 C-E | fs 55 | fs 56 |
| Cutting tool | AutoCut C5-2 | AutoCut C5-2 | AutoCut C5-2 | Cutting blade, 2 blades | Cutting blade, 2 blades |
| Power kW/hp | 0. 65/0.9 | 0.75/1 | 0.8/1.1 | 0.75/1 | 0.8/1.1 |
| Length, m | 1.47 | 1.47 | 1.45 | 1.7 | 1.7 |
| Sound pressure, dB | 108 | 107 | 108 | 108 | 107 |
| Tank volume, l | 0.33 | 0.33 | 0.34 | 0.33 | 0.34 |
| Weight, kg | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 5.6 | 5.1 |
| Blade diameter, mm | 380 | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 |
| RPM | 8300 | 8300 | 8500 | 8300 | 8300 |
| Features | Comfort grip with all engine controls. Manual priming for a quick start. Goggles are included as standard. Shoulder strap for comfortable work. The starting device significantly reduces harmful shocks that negatively affect the joints and muscles. Easy start system, thanks to which it is enough just to pull the cable. | Circular Handle for working in tight spaces. In addition to the shoulder strap, a carrying system has been added, which distributes the load on both shoulders evenly, and is also additionally fixed on the thigh opposite from the scythe. | New scavenged engine delivers lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to units of the same horsepower. Universal belt with well-thought-out load distribution, as well as a tool bag. | Two-handed handle makes mowing large areas more comfortable. |
Powerful
These brushcutters easily cope where it is impossible to work with lawn mowers due to poor traffic. They are also able to cope with perennial grass and small shrubs, so they can be used to clear any area.
Specifications of powerful brushcutters Stihl table 1:
| Model | fs 70 C-E | fs 94 RC-E | fs 94 C-E |
| Cutting tool | GSB 230-2 | GSB 230-2 | GSB 230-2 |
| Power kW/hp | 0. 9/1.2 | 0.9/1.2 | 0.9/1.2 |
| Length, m | 1.7 | 1.7 | 1.7 |
| Sound pressure, dB | 107 | - | - |
| Tank volume, l | 0.34 | 0.75 | 0.75 |
| Weight, kg | 5.4 | 4.6 | 4.9 |
| Blade diameter, mm | 420 | 420 | 420 |
| Speed, rpm | 8500 | - | - |
| Features | Same technology as the most powerful model in the light series. The only difference is slightly increased power. | Stihl ECOSPEED system, which allows the user to select the operating speed himself. Large transparent fuel tank. Anti-vibration system, which reduces the risk of occupational injury to workers. | Similar functions |
fs 100 fs 120 fs 130 fs 250 Cutting tool GSB 230-2 DM 250-3 GSB 230-2 GSB 230-2 Power kW/hp 1. 
05/1.4 1.3/1.8 1.4/1.9 1.6/2.2 Length, m 1.8 - 1.8 1.8 Sound pressure, dB 103 - 108 - Tank volume, l 0.53 0.64 0.53 0.64 Weight kg 5.8 6.3 5.9 6.3 Blade diameter, mm 420 420 420 420 RPM 7000 - 8500 - Features Conventional fuel tank. The ability to adjust the handle without an auxiliary tool. The automatic decompression system makes it easier to start the engine. The new 4-MIX engine consumes less fuel, has high tractive effort and produces less noise. Similar functions Similar functions Compensator prevents supersaturation of the fuel mixture in case of filter contamination. 
