Sod Installation Cost Calculator
Estimate installed sod cost from lawn area and your material and labor rates per square foot. Splits sod, labor, and total.
How this calculator works
Installed sod cost is the sod material plus labor, priced per square foot of lawn. The calculator applies both rates to the area.
Formula: Total = lawn area × material rate + lawn area × labor rate.
Worked example
A 50 ft × 20 ft lawn (1,000 sq ft), $0.50/sq ft material, $0.50/sq ft labor:
- Area: 50 × 20 = 1,000 sq ft
- Material: 1,000 × $0.50 = $500
- Labor: 1,000 × $0.50 = $500
- Total installed: $1,000
Cost reference (at $1/sq ft installed)
| Lawn area | Installed cost |
|---|---|
| 500 sq ft | ~$500 |
| 1,000 sq ft | ~$1,000 |
| 5,000 sq ft | ~$5,000 |
How to use
Measure the lawn’s length and width and enter local rates. For the number of sod rolls to order, use the Sod Calculator; add old-lawn removal and topsoil as separate lines.
Frequently asked questions
How much does sod installation cost?
Professionally installed sod typically runs $1–2 per square foot, split between the sod itself and labor. The calculator defaults to $0.50 material and $0.50 labor per square foot; grade, delivery distance, and site prep move it.
Is ground prep included?
Basic raking and grading are usually in the labor rate, but removing old lawn, tilling, adding topsoil, or major grading are extra. Poor soil that needs amendment can add significantly — the Topsoil Delivery Cost Calculator helps budget that.
Sod or seed — which is cheaper?
Seed is far cheaper per square foot but takes weeks to establish and needs careful watering. Sod is an instant lawn at several times the cost. Compare with the Grass Seed Calculator for the seed route.
How much sod should I order?
Order about 5–10% over your measured area for cutting and fitting around beds and curves. The Sod Calculator converts area into the number of rolls or pallets to buy.
Estimates only. Verify quantities with your supplier before purchasing.