The decision to sod or seed depends on how quickly you want a lawn. Seeding is always cheaper, by far, but it takes time. If soil erosion is an issue, you don't have time to wait. Seed lawns can take one to two years before they grow in fully. In the meantime, they are at risk of damage, disease and pests.

If you want to enjoy your new lawn as quickly as possible, sod is the best way to go. To go that route, you need to budget in the cost to install sod or learn how to DIY.

On This Page:

1. Average Cost of Sod Grass Per Pallet & Square Foot
2. Estimating Costs by Lawn Sod Type
1. St. Augustine
2. Zoysia
3. Bermuda
4. Fescue
5. Centipede
6. Bahia
7. Marathon
8. Kentucky Bluegrass
9. Bentgrass
10. Ryegrass
11. Super-sod
3. Sod Pallet Price Calculator
4. Sod Pricing Factors
5. DIY vs. Hiring a Sod Installer
6. FAQs

Average Cost of Sod Grass Per Pallet & Square Foot

The average price is around $300 per pallet or $0.60 per square foot. Sod is also sold by the square yard and roll, but those options are not as common. It does not sell by the linear foot.

Make sure you understand the quantity by price when buying. Some retailers list their prices according to a certain number of pallets. For example, a price might show "$250 dollars per pallet," but as you read the fine print, you might see it is for “one to two pallets delivered.” The description should also tell you the total square footage or yardage that the entire order covers.

Also, take note of the dimensions when buying by the roll. While it normally sells in 2-foot by 5-foot rolls, some suppliers cut them in different dimensions up to 15-feet wide and 30-feet to 40-feet long. If you go straight to a supplier, you can usually buy it wholesale, but they probably have a minimum order requirement. If you're only doing a small project, you may have to pay retail prices.

Estimating Costs by Lawn Sod Type

Though most are sold at $150 to $450 per pallet, the average price nationwide is difficult to calculate. Prices depend on the type you want as well as what's available in your area. If you order online, be sure they ship that type to your area and that it will work well in your yard.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine costs between $0.35 to $0.75 per square foot or $160 to $340 per pallet. It is native to the US, the Caribbean and parts of Africa. With its coarse, wide blade, it was in demand early on as pasture grass. As communities spread inland, it quickly became popular for lawns as well. Today, you can find it from the Carolinas to most of Texas, and it has adapted to Central California.

St. Augustine Floratam, a variant of St. Augustine, sells by the pallet for $185 to $225. At 450 square feet per pallet, this cost equates to about $0.35 per square foot. Floratam does well in full sunlight and in a variety of soil types. It is also resistant to chinch bugs.

• Adapts well to heat, drought and saltiness
• Needs extra watering in hot weather
• Good in shade
• Doesn't tolerate temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit
• Overpowers weeds
• Pest-resistant (including chinch bugs) when healthy.
• Sensitive to certain herbicides (2,4-D)
• Becomes sparse under heavy foot traffic
• Fast-growing
• Mow frequently, but don’t cut too low

Zoysia

Zoysia costs $180 to $270 per pallet or $0.40 to $0.60 per square foot. Touted as a "cure-all" for lawn care, zoysia is very tolerant to wide variations of sunlight and water. It is native to Japan and the Philippines, so regions with similar climates are especially good for it. In warm areas, zoysia tends to stay green for more than half the year. Experts often use it on golf courses for teeing areas and fairways due to its fine blades and soft feel.

Zoysia Emerald, a variant of zoysia, sells for about $240 per pallet or $0.55 per square foot. Zenith, a top zoysia brand, sells for about $385 per pallet or $0.85 per square foot. These new breeds easily grow outside East Asia and are a popular choice in Southern California to the mid-Atlantic states. As long as it gets 6 to 8 hours of sunlight and consistent watering, it works well in this colder region.

• Best in temperate climates Turns brown in cold weather
• Best in sunny, open spaces
• Slow growing and needs minimal mowing
• Watch out for lots of thatching
• Invasive: use lawn edging to protect other plants
• Easily covers low features with dense mats
• Highly insect resistant

Bermuda

Bermuda grass costs $0.35 to $0.85 per square foot. Per pallet prices range from $160 to $385 each. Despite its name, it doesn't come from Bermuda, but the Mideast instead. This grass type is popular for heavy foot traffic areas, including football fields. It recovers and repairs itself quickly and can grow in almost any type of soil.

If not mowed, seed heads can sprout up to a foot or so in height, which helps it spread. The root system can reach 6.5 feet down, with the bulk of the roots around 2 feet deep. While this helps the grass keep its drought resistance, it can also make this very invasive species tough to get rid of if you decide you don't want it.

• Good in drought-prone areas
• Highly invasive
• Ultra-deep root growth
• Tolerates heavy foot traffic
• Recovers and repairs itself quickly
• Herbicide-resistant for easy weed control
• Increases allergy symptoms in some people and pets

Fescue

Fescue costs $160 to $295 per pallet or $0.35 to $0.65 per square foot. It's a cool climate grass that does very well everywhere St. Augustine, zoysia and Bermuda varieties don't. Fescue has up to 400 to 500 subtypes, including Kentucky 31. This popular variant is famous for its role in reclaiming devastated land from the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

People commonly use it as an ornamental and as turf grass. It can grow to heights of 10 to 200 centimeters (4 to 79 inches) depending on the type and works great on golf courses for the rough. It is also excellent for soil erosion control. Unless you are growing the tall fescue variant, this grass does not tolerate heavy foot traffic.

Fescue Cost

• Most common grass used for lawns
• Found on every continent except Antarctica
• Quick to germinate when grown from seed
• Does not spread easily
• Good companion to wildflowers
• Tolerates poor soil conditions
• Grows at high elevations
• Dormant above 90 degrees Fahrenheit

Centipede

Centipede sells for $340 to $385 per pallet or about $0.75 to $0.85 per square foot when bought from a hardware store. Since wholesale pricing from a nursery or farm could be much lower, you should call an installation professional for a quote on this species.

Although this grass is native to Southeast Asia, it has been a popular choice in the US since the early 1900s. This variety favors the warm season and is known to create a low, dense lawn that is reasonably shade tolerant. It easily resists weed growth and pests when grown in the right conditions.

• Heat- and drought-tolerant
• Weed- and pest-resistant
• Best in sandy, acidic soil
• Warm-season grass
• Average sprouting time of 10 to 28 days
• Develops thatch when taller than two inches
• Does not handle foot traffic, especially in winter

Bahia

Bahia sells for less than the other varieties at $0.20 to $0.40 per square foot or $90 to $180 for each pallet. This warm-season grass is native to South America and has become a popular pasture grass in the Southeastern US. Many people plant it to control erosion, produce hay and create habitats for local wildlife. It also works well as a basic lawn that withstands heavy foot traffic. This makes it a favorite of pet owners who need an durable lawn for dogs.

You can grow Bahia grass in nearly any type of soil in sunny and shady areas. It spreads like wild due to its deep roots and ability to produce tons of seeds each growing season. Those new to lawn care love this grass as it is tolerant of care mistakes, including mowing too close and over or under watering.   

• Thrives above 70 degrees Fahrenheit
• Highly drought-tolerant
• Low maintenance
• Winter hardy
• Deep root system
• Good when rotating fields to suppress pests and disease
• Thrives in all soil types, including poorly draining fields
• Germinates slowly

Marathon

Marathon sells for about $270 to $295 per pallet. Expect to pay $0.60 and $0.65 when sold by the square foot. Imitation versions, often of lower quality, run about 10% less. Southland Sod Farms created this cool-season grass in the early 1980s using two tall fescue species called Baja and Hubbard 87. They have created two more varieties since developing the first. Each one thrives in different climates and conditions.

All varieties of this grass are attractive and durable. They work well in front and back yards that see a lot of foot traffic. Their dense growth patterns allow lawns to resist weeds, pests and disease. They all need regular mowing and watering to stay green and lush, especially as temperatures rise in the summer.

• Lush color and soft blades
• Produces dense turf
• Resists disease, weeds and pests
• Thrives in cool weather
• Grows quickly during the fall
• Water frequently in the summer to keep green
• More durable than other cool-season varieties
• Grows and recovers quickly

Kentucky Bluegrass

Kentucky Bluegrass costs $160 to $180 per pallet or $0.35 to $0.40 per square foot. This is a popular choice for lawns due to its lush, green appearance and ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic. It is native to North Asia, Europe and beyond, but is found all across the US.

Although it prefers full sun, it grows well in the shade when cared for properly with regular mowing, feeding and watering. This grass is sensitive to heat and drought since it is a cool-season variety. It has phenomenal winter hardiness, but cannot withstand much stress from insects, disease and weeds.

• Uniform dark green color
• Grows best during the cool season
• Does not tolerate drought
• High maintenance
• Good in cold climates, starts growing in early spring
• Responds poorly to pests, disease and weed growth
• Best in full sun but shade tolerant

Bentgrass

Bentgrass sells by the pallet for $225 to $315 and by the square foot for $0.50 to $0.70. People use it for natural grass putting greens because it stands up well to low mowing and heavy foot traffic.

Over 100 species of this cool-season grass grows native in Asia, Europe and North Africa. In the US, only four species are used for lawns, putting greens and sports turf. They grow exceptionally well in the Pacific Northwest and the Northeastern area. Although this grass is resistant to disease, weeds and pests in the cool months, all that changes as the temperatures rise.

• Blue-green hue and soft feel
• Thrives in cool, wet conditions
• Tolerates constant foot traffic and cutting too low
• Susceptible to pests, disease and weeds in high temperatures
• Prefers full sun but can grow in shade
• Water often year-round

Ryegrass

Ryegrass costs $160 to $295 per pallet or $0.35 to $0.65 per square foot. This cool-season grass thrives all across the globe, but is native to Europe, Asia and Africa. Due to its durability and tolerance for close mowing, this grass works well as turf for sports fields and as pasture grass. It is great for over-seeding Bermuda grass lawns to keep them green all year long.

In mild climates, ryegrass needs minimal maintenance. Just a little bit of watering and regular trims is all it needs to stay in great shape. With that level of care, it has a lush, green look that promises to improve your home’s appearance year-round. As temperatures rise, it needs more watering to avoid turning brown. Budgeting for the cost of lawn fertilizer can help, too, in keeping this grass looking its best.

• Grows fastest in cool weather
• Tolerant of cold snaps and frequent or heavy rain
• Needs more water and maintenance as temperatures rise
• Does not spread quickly, so it stays where you plant it
• Thrives despite close mowing and heavy foot traffic
• Prefers full sun but grows well in the shade

Super-Sod

Super-Sod is a supplier of a variety of high-quality grass species, including:

• Zeon Zoysia
• TifBlair Centipede
• Elite Tall Fescue
• TifTuf Bermuda

Each variety is matched to its ideal zones to make sure the grass grows fast, strong and healthy. They sell every variety in rolls and pallets, depending on your yard size. They allow you to pick up the sod yourself or have it delivered to your home. You can the company directly for a free quote on any of their products.

Sod Pallet Price Calculator

Each pallet of sod costs $150 to $450 and covers up to 450 square feet. Prices can vary depending on the type you pick and where you live. If the species you want is not common where you live, it might cost more to transport, if it's available at all.

The four most common species of grass used for sod are zoysia, Bermuda, St. Augustine and fescue. There are many other types of sod available, depending on your area.

It is possible to buy your own material and have someone else lay it or have an installer handle the full project, shopping included. Buying your own sod may affect any guarantees the installer might offer, so discuss it with your pro beforehand.

Sod Pricing Factors

Sod pricing varies quite a bit depending on the grass type, delivery charges and your location. The most expensive types are Zoysia Emerald, Bermuda and Centipede at up to $0.85 per square foot. Bahia is the cheapest at under $0.40 per square foot. On top of the sod cost, suppliers charge between $90 to $350 for delivery. You also have the option to pick it up for yourself at no extra charge. Prices are often higher than the norm for those who live in areas with multiple climate zones, such as California.  

DIY vs. Hiring a Sod Installer

If you install sod yourself, expect it to take a lot of time and effort. By hiring a sod installer near you, you can kick back and wait for a beautiful lawn to appear before your eyes. Installers handle everything from selecting the right type of grass and having it delivered to grading the land and installing each roll. They can even provide the care tips you need to keep your lawn thriving through every season.

If you choose to DIY, you need to learn how to lay sod and buy all the materials and tools for the job. These costs can add up fast, quickly eliminating the money saved on hiring an installer.

FAQs

What is sod?

Sometimes called turf, sod is a thick layer of mature grass growing on one to two inches of soil. Sold most often by the pallet, this natural turf is less than the cost of artificial turf but more than the price of lawn seed. You can use it to instantly create a lush lawn, but it will need regular care to remain in great shape.  

Is it cheaper to sod or seed?

On average, growing a lawn from seed costs $950 for an average-sized lawn, including installation. This makes it a lot cheaper than sod, which costs between $3,025 to $8,205 for materials alone.

How long after Roundup can I sod?

You can install sod about two weeks after starting the Roundup treatment process. Make sure that at least 7 to 10 days have passed since you applied Roundup last or it could kill the grass.

How do I calculate how much sod I need?

First, look at your yard's basic shape and measure its square footage. Then, divide the total square footage of your lawn by 450 square feet to calculate how many pallets you need. Plan to round up or order extra 10 square foot rolls for full coverage. Or, just type your lawn dimensions into a sod calculator to instantly learn how much material you need.

How much does a pallet of sod cover?

The amount on the pallet normally covers 450 square feet.

How much does a pallet of sod weigh?

Depending on the moisture content of the soil, a pallet can weigh anywhere from 1,500 to 3,000 pounds.

What is the most affordable and most expensive type of sod?

Bahia is the most affordable grass species and Centipede costs the most.

What is the cheapest place to buy sod?

It is cheaper to buy from a nearby wholesaler than from a big box store or national hardware chain. Generally, the closer it grows to your location, the less expensive it will be and the more likely it will thrive.

Sod vs. seeded grass lawn vs. hydroseeding: Which is better?

A seeded lawn has no great advantage over installed sod except for price and the relatively low labor needed. The result, in fact, is often better with a sod installed lawn because the grass matures quickly.

Though the cost to seed a lawn is less, a seeded lawn takes up to a year before it is fully usable. However, you can use an installed lawn in a matter of weeks. Sod establishes itself much faster and is less prone to erosion from rain and other weather effects. This is one case where you can achieve both quality and convenience!

At about $7,850 per acre or about $0.20 per square foot, a hydroseeded lawn costs about half as much per acre as low-cost sod. Hydroseeding combats erosion by mixing seed with mulch. Like traditional seeding, a lawn planted with this process takes time to grow in.

Which is more expensive — sod vs artificial grass turf?

At $5 to $20 per square foot, the cost to install artificial turf is much more upfront. However, the advantages of synthetic grass can save you time and reduce lawn maintenance costs once installed. After all, there is no mowing, watering or fertilizing, which can save you up to $850 per year.

How much does replacement vs. new sod cost?

The only added cost associated with replacement is the labor to remove existing material. A professional can give you a quote for the added work.