What drives the price of an artificial putting green

Your installed price per square foot reflects site prep, design complexity, and access. Building a green that rolls true means a stable base, quality turf, and precise installation.

Key cost factors

  • Size and shape: Larger or irregular footprints add materials and labor.
  • Base construction: Excavation, 4 to 6 inches of compacted aggregate, and grading for drainage.
  • Contours and elevation changes: Shaping and screeding time increase with complexity.
  • Access and logistics: Tight gates, long carries, or stairs raise labor and mobilization.
  • Fringe and chipping areas: Additional turf types, cuts, and infill.
  • Site conditions: Sod or soil removal, tree roots, or drainage corrections.
  • Upgrades: Additional cups, flags, lighting, edging, boulders, or retaining elements.

Typical installed cost ranges by size

These examples assume standard base depth, two to four cups, and basic fringe. Final pricing depends on your site and design.

  • 200 to 300 sq ft compact practice green: about $3,500 to $9,000.
  • 400 to 600 sq ft backyard green with modest contour: about $7,000 to $18,000.
  • 800 sq ft with defined breaks and fringe: about $16,000 to $28,000.
  • 1,000 to 1,200 sq ft with chipping lane and multiple pin locations: about $22,000 to $42,000.

Line item breakdown

Percentages vary by site, but this is a reliable benchmark for a well-built green.

  • Excavation and base materials: 35 to 45 percent.
  • Putting turf and infill system: 25 to 35 percent.
  • Installation labor and seaming: 20 to 30 percent.
  • Edging, cups, flags, and adhesives: 5 to 10 percent.
  • Mobilization and access related time: 0 to 10 percent.

Upgrades and their impact

  • Advanced contours and shaping: add about $2 to $5 per sq ft.
  • Fringe or collar turf: typically $6 to $12 per sq ft of fringe area.
  • Chipping or fairway zone: typically $8 to $18 per sq ft for that area.
  • Perimeter edging or mow strips: $8 to $20 per linear foot depending on material.
  • Drainage enhancements beyond the base: French drains or catch basins often add $2 to $5 per sq ft of green footprint.
  • Lighting or hardscape accents: priced per fixture or feature.

DIY vs pro installation

DIY can reduce labor costs if you have excavation, grading, and seaming skills.

  • DIY materials for a small green: about $7 to $18 per sq ft for turf, infill, cups, and adhesive.
  • Base aggregate, compaction equipment, and incidentals: typically $3 to $6 per sq ft equivalent.
  • Pro installation delivers consistent roll, cleaner seams, and long term stability with fewer rework risks.

Performance, maintenance, and lifespan

  • Speed: Most residential greens can be tuned to stimp around 9 to 12 with proper infill and grooming.
  • Care: Light brushing, leaf removal, and occasional infill top off keep roll true. Plan $50 to $200 per year for supplies or service.
  • Longevity: Quality putting turf often lasts 10 to 15 years in residential settings when cared for appropriately.

Timeline and process

  • Design and quote: 1 to 3 days once we see the site and goals.
  • Install duration: 1 to 5 days for most backyard greens, depending on size and access.
  • Cure and tune: Playable immediately, final infill and grooming adjustments over the first week.

Regional pricing and access considerations

Labor rates and aggregate availability shift the per square foot price market to market. Remote sites, steep slopes, or narrow access paths can increase mobilization and installation hours.

How to get an exact number

A fast site review plus a simple drawing delivers a precise quote. Share your target size, pin count, preferred speeds, and any upgrades like fringe or chipping zones. We will map base depths, access, and drainage, then give a firm price you can trust.