Making your outdoor space look great is one thing—figuring out how much it will cost is another. If you’re deciding between artificial grass and pavers, you’re likely asking: which one will give me the look I want without breaking the bank? It’s not a simple answer, and that’s exactly why this guide exists.
We’ll start by comparing installation costs, breaking down the material and labor pricing for each surface type. Then we’ll look at long-term maintenance, since what you spend after the install often matters just as much. We’ll also cover durability and lifespan, to help you understand which option lasts longer and how that affects your total cost. After that, we’ll tie it all together in a value-for-money comparison, looking at which surface delivers more return over time. Finally, we’ll answer the big question directly: Are pavers actually cheaper than artificial grass?
By the end, you’ll have a clear, practical sense of which choice makes more financial sense for your yard—and your goals.
Artificial Grass vs Pavers Cost Overview
If you’re comparing artificial grass and pavers for your yard, there’s one question you probably care about most: Which one costs less? The answer depends on more than just the sticker price.
When we talk about cost, we’re not just looking at what you pay on day one. There are two main cost factors to consider:
- Installation cost: what it takes to buy and install the material
- Ongoing maintenance: how much time and money it will take to keep it looking good
Artificial grass might seem expensive up front, but it usually requires less maintenance. Pavers, on the other hand, can vary widely in price depending on the type, and they may need occasional repairs or weed control.
The real question isn’t just “how much does it cost today”—it’s what will it cost you over the next 5 to 10 years?
In the next sections, we’ll break down each cost component so you can clearly see which option offers better value for your space and your budget.
Installation Cost Comparison: Artificial Grass vs Pavers
Installation is where the biggest upfront costs come in—whether you’re going with artificial grass or pavers. These expenses usually fall into two parts: the material itself and the labor to install it. Both vary depending on the project size, site condition, and product type.
Let’s break them down.
Material Costs
Artificial grass typically costs $2 to $8 per square foot, depending on the quality and pile height. Higher-end turf with UV protection and realistic texture falls on the upper end.
Pavers come in a wide range of materials—from basic concrete at $1 to $3 per square foot, to natural stone or brick that can reach $10 or more. The cost varies not just by material, but also by shape, thickness, and aesthetic design.
In general, paver materials offer more pricing flexibility, but high-end options can surpass turf costs quickly.
Labor and Installation Fees
Installation labor for artificial grass often runs $5 to $10 per square foot, including site prep, leveling, laying base material, and securing the turf. DIY is possible, but mistakes in drainage or seam handling can cost more down the line.
Paver installation is labor-intensive and often more expensive, typically $10 to $20 per square foot. It includes excavation, laying a sand or gravel base, setting the stones, and sealing. Intricate patterns or curves may increase the price.
Unless you’re hiring a crew with flat-rate packages, paver installation tends to be more expensive and time-consuming than turf.
How Much Is 1,000 Square Feet of Fake Grass or Pavers?
Let’s look at a simple example.
- Artificial Grass:
- Material: $2,000 – $8,000
- Installation: $5,000 – $10,000
- Total: $7,000 – $18,000
- Pavers:
- Material: $1,000 – $10,000+
- Installation: $10,000 – $20,000
- Total: $11,000 – $30,000+
So if you’re comparing 1,000 square feet, artificial grass usually costs less to install, especially if you choose mid-range turf and basic prep. Pavers offer more style but come at a price—mainly in labor.
Long-Term Maintenance: Artificial Grass vs Pavers
Artificial grass generally requires less upkeep and cost over time. Occasional rinsing, light brushing, and spot deodorizing are often all it takes—even with pets. There’s no mowing, fertilizing, or watering, which saves both time and utility bills.
In contrast, pavers need more regular care. Weed growth between joints, especially in damp climates, calls for sweeping, re-sanding, or herbicide application. Sealing every few years helps prevent stains and erosion. Individual pieces may also crack or shift, requiring spot repairs.
While both surfaces are relatively low-maintenance compared to natural grass, turf offers more predictability and lower ongoing costs. Pavers are durable but demand more consistent attention—and expenses—to stay pristine.
Durability and Lifespan Costs: Artificial Grass vs Pavers
Artificial grass typically lasts 8–15 years, especially with UV-resistant materials. It requires minimal maintenance but may flatten or degrade with heavy foot traffic or pets, eventually needing patching or full replacement.
Pavers, by contrast, can last 20–30 years or more when installed on a solid base. Though freeze-thaw cycles can cause shifting or cracking, repairs are often simple and localized. Pavers also resist UV damage and don’t fade over time.
While turf may incur lower ongoing costs, its shorter lifespan could mean higher long-term replacement expenses. Pavers have higher initial costs and require occasional upkeep like sealing, but offer greater longevity. For 10-year minimal maintenance, turf may be sufficient; for multi-decade use, pavers are a more durable investment.
Artificial Grass vs Pavers: Which One Offers Better Value for Money?
For everyday residential use, artificial grass offers excellent value. It requires little maintenance, saves on water and lawn care, and maintains a clean, green look for 8–15 years. It’s especially cost-effective for family yards, pet areas, and rentals where simplicity matters.
For long-term investment or premium design, pavers are the better choice. Though more expensive to install, they can last 20–30 years or more. Their durability and custom aesthetic make them ideal for patios, driveways, and upscale landscapes that prioritize structure and style.
Ultimately, turf excels in low-maintenance convenience, while pavers shine in durability and design. The better value depends on your priorities—ease and economy or longevity and aesthetics.
Are Pavers Cheaper Than Artificial Grass?
Not always. In many cases, artificial grass is cheaper to install, especially for mid-sized residential spaces. But depending on the type of pavers and the complexity of your layout, the answer can go both ways.
Basic concrete pavers cost less per square foot in material—but labor costs for installation are usually higher than turf. On the other hand, if you choose premium artificial grass and add extra drainage or padding, the price can climb quickly.
It also depends on what you’re trying to achieve. A simple paver walkway may cost less than a full turf yard. But for a low-maintenance, green outdoor area, turf often offers a more cost-efficient solution over time.
So the real question isn’t just about being “cheaper”—it’s about which surface delivers the features, function, and cost balance you care about most.
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