How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost in Anaheim? (Fake Grass Price Breakdown)

If you’re tired of the endless cycle of watering, mowing, and fertilizing a patchy lawn in Anaheim, you’ve probably started asking a very specific question: "What is the real artificial grass cost Anaheim homeowners are paying?"

You’ve likely seen prices all over the map. Some websites advertise turf for $2 per square foot, while a neighbor tells you they paid $15. This confusion is the biggest barrier for homeowners. The truth is, the product on the shelf is only one small piece of the puzzle. The "fake grass cost" you see in ads is rarely the installed price.

As one of Anaheim’s top-rated, all-in-one contractors, we believe in 100% transparency. This 2025 guide will break down every single line item that goes into the average cost of artificial turf. We’ll explain the per-square-foot price, what’s included, and how to spot a "cheap" quote that will cost you more in the long run.

What’s Included in Your Artificial Turf Cost Per Sq Ft?

When you get a quote from a professional company, you are not just buying a roll of green carpet. You are paying for a complete landscaping system. Here is exactly what’s—and what should be—included in your quote.

1. The Turf Product Itself (Approx. 20-30% of Cost)

The turf prices Anaheim homeowners see vary based on quality, material, and specialty.

• Budget/Landscaping Turf ($2.00 – $3.50/sq ft): Builder-grade turf. It looks fine from a distance but often has a shinier, plastic look and a shorter pile height. Good for low-traffic side yards.
• Premium Landscaping Turf ($3.50 – $5.50/sq ft): The most popular choice. Features a taller pile height (1.5″-2.0″), multiple color variations, and a "thatch" layer to look incredibly realistic.
• Specialty Turf ($4.50 – $7.00+/sq ft): Required for specific uses, such as Pet Turf (100% permeable backing) or Putting Green Turf (dense nylon).

2. Site Prep & Base Materials (Approx. 30-40% of Cost)

This is the most critical part of your budget, and it’s where "cheap" installers cut corners. A proper base is the foundation that makes your turf last 20+ years.

• Demolition & Haul-Away: The labor and disposal fees for removing your old grass, soil, and concrete.
• Weed Barrier: A high-quality fabric laid down first to prevent weeds.
• Base Materials: 3-4 inches of Class II road base or decomposed granite. This must be imported, spread, and graded to provide a stable, drainable foundation.
• Compaction: The use of a heavy plate compactor to make the base rock-solid.

3. Expert Labor & Installation (Approx. 30-40% of Cost)

This is the skill you’re paying for. A roll of turf is heavy and unwieldy. The labor cost covers a professional crew to perform crucial tasks:

• Grading: Ensuring the base is perfectly smooth and sloped for proper drainage.
• Cutting & Seaming: Meticulously cutting the turf to fit your yard’s unique curves and using special tape and glue to create invisible seams.
• Securing: Using 6-inch spikes to secure the perimeter.

4. Infill (Approx. 5-10% of Cost)

Infill is the sand-like material spread over the top and brushed deep into the fibers. It keeps the blades standing up, protects the backing from the sun, and gives the turf its "weight." Your quote should include either standard silica sand or an antimicrobial, odor-control infill (like Zeolite) for pet areas.

Why You Must Be Wary of "Cheap" Quotes

You may see an ad for a "full installation" for $5-$7 per square foot. This is a major red flag. To offer that price, a contractor MUST cut corners, usually on the base preparation. A "cheap" job often means laying turf over existing dirt, resulting in:

• Lumps and Sinkholes: The ground will settle unevenly.
• Weeds: They will grow right through the turf.
• Poor Drainage: You’ll have puddles of stagnant water.
• Visible Seams: Ugly and dangerous gaps will appear as the ground shifts.

Creating Your Complete Backyard Budget

Your artificial lawn cost in Anaheim is often just one part of a total backyard renovation. As you’re budgeting for your new, low-maintenance yard, it’s helpful to see the full picture.

Once you have your turf quote, your next thoughts might be about privacy and security. A new lawn looks incredible when framed by a new fence. To help with your total budget, you can see our detailed 2025 guide on the average fence installation cost in Anaheim. Of course, the quality of that project depends on who you hire. We recommend reading our guide on finding the best fence company near me Anaheim.

Finally, if you have a dog, your costs will be slightly higher because you must use a specialty system. Don’t just get a quote for standard turf. Read our in-depth guide on the best turf for dogs in Anaheim to learn about the permeable backing and infills you need. Understanding the process is just as important as the price, which you can find in our complete Anaheim artificial grass installation guide.

Get Your Free, Transparent Artificial Grass Quote Today!

We know the artificial grass cost Anaheim homeowners face is a major investment. The best way to get a real, accurate number is to have a professional visit your home. At Gaga US Construction, we provide 100% transparent, itemized quotes.

We will walk your property, measure your space, and show you different turf options in your price range. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s design a beautiful, maintenance-free lawn that fits your budget and lasts for decades.