Turf vs artificial grass: which costs less?
Real turf is far cheaper to lay: about £10 to £30 per m² supplied and laid, against £40 to £90 per m² for installed artificial grass, which needs a full sub-base. Turf gives a real lawn but needs mowing, feeding and watering; artificial costs several times more upfront and pays that back in near-zero maintenance over about 15 years. Turf wins on upfront cost, artificial on long-term upkeep.
Turfing vs Artificial grass: the cost
| Option | Range | Typical | Priced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turfing | £10 to £30 | £18 | per m² |
| Artificial grass | £40 to £90 | £65 | per m² |
Costwise guide prices, reviewed June 2026, not quotes.
Turfing vs Artificial grass: the difference
| Factor | How they compare |
|---|---|
| Typical cost | Turf about £10 to £30 per m² laid; artificial grass £40 to £90 per m² installed. |
| Upkeep | Turf needs mowing, feeding and watering; artificial needs only an occasional brush and rinse. |
| Lifespan | A turf lawn lasts indefinitely if maintained; artificial grass lasts around 15 years then needs replacing. |
| Best for | Turf: lowest cost and a real lawn. Artificial: low maintenance, deep shade, or where grass will not grow. |
Common questions
No, artificial grass costs several times more upfront: £40 to £90 per m² installed against £10 to £30 per m² for real turf laid. Artificial earns its cost back over years of almost no maintenance, but on day one turf is far cheaper.
It is worth it where a real lawn struggles or maintenance is the problem you are solving: deep shade, heavy use, pets, or simply no time to mow. If you want a genuine lawn and can maintain it, turf is much cheaper and greener in every sense. The decision is really about maintenance, not just cost.
These are independent guide prices based on typical UK jobs in 2026. Your actual cost depends on your property, spec, access and where you live. Always get at least three written quotes before committing.