How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Lawn Mower?

The cost to rent a lawn mower can range from $25 to $100 per day, depending on the type of mower, the rental duration, and your location. If you’re wondering about the lawn mower rental prices for a specific job, it’s helpful to know that longer rental periods often come with discounted daily rates. This post will break down the factors influencing the cost of hiring a lawn mower and help you make an informed decision for your yard work.

Deciphering Lawn Mower Rental Rates

Renting a lawn mower can be a smart solution when your own mower is out of commission, you need a specialized machine for a tough job, or you’re simply not ready to invest in owning one. The lawn mower hire rates are determined by several key elements, making it important to shop around and compare options.

Factors Influencing Rental Costs

Several variables play a significant role in the final price you’ll pay for a lawn mower rental:

Type of Mower: This is perhaps the biggest cost driver. A basic push mower will always be cheaper to rent than a powerful riding mower.
Rental Duration: Most rental companies offer daily, weekly, and sometimes monthly rates. Daily rates are the highest per-day, while longer terms usually provide better value.
Location: Rental prices can vary based on geographic location and the cost of living in that area. You might find different lawn mower rental near me cost figures from one town to another.
Additional Fees: Be aware of potential extra charges like fuel surcharges, late return fees, damage waivers, or delivery fees.
Fuel and Maintenance: Some rentals might come with a full tank of gas, while others expect you to return it with a full tank. It’s wise to confirm this upfront.
Insurance/Damage Waiver: Many companies offer optional insurance or damage waivers. While they add to the cost, they can protect you from expensive repair bills if the mower is damaged during your rental period.

Average Lawn Mower Rental Cost: A Breakdown

To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at the average lawn mower rental cost for different types of machines. These figures are approximate and can fluctuate.

Push Mowers

For smaller to medium-sized yards, a push mower is often the go-to choice. They are generally the most affordable to rent.

Daily Rental: $25 – $50
Weekly Rental: $100 – $150

A small engine mower rental cost for a basic push model will typically fall within this range. These are perfect for homeowners with simple lawns and no major obstacles.

Self-Propelled Mowers

If your yard has gentle slopes or you prefer a little less physical exertion, a self-propelled mower is a step up.

Daily Rental: $35 – $60
Weekly Rental: $120 – $180

The DIY lawn mower rental expense for a self-propelled model is a modest increase over a basic push mower, offering enhanced convenience.

Riding Lawn Mowers

For larger properties, a riding lawn mower is essential. These machines significantly reduce the time and effort required for mowing.

Daily Rental: $75 – $150+
Weekly Rental: $250 – $500+

The renting a riding lawn mower price is considerably higher due to the size, complexity, and power of these units. For very large estates or commercial properties, you might even consider zero-turn mowers, which can have even higher rental rates.

Other Specialized Mowers

Beyond the standard types, you might encounter other specialized mowers for specific tasks:

Tractor Mowers: For very large acreage, these will be the most expensive, often costing $150-$300+ per day.
Brush Hog/Flail Mowers: Designed for overgrown areas, thick brush, and uneven terrain, these can cost $75-$200+ per day.

Backyard Mower Rental Cost Considerations

When you’re thinking about a backyard mower rental cost, remember to factor in the size and complexity of your backyard.

Small Backyards (under 1/4 acre): A standard push mower or a small self-propelled mower is usually sufficient and the most economical choice.
Medium Backyards (1/4 to 1/2 acre): A self-propelled mower or a basic riding mower might be necessary.
Large Backyards (over 1/2 acre): A riding mower, potentially even a garden tractor with mowing capabilities, will be the most efficient option.

The cost of hiring a lawn mower for a small backyard will naturally be lower than for a larger one, as you’ll likely opt for a less powerful and less expensive machine.

Commercial Lawn Mower Rental Pricing

For landscaping businesses or contractors, the requirements are different. Commercial lawn mower rental pricing often reflects the robust nature and higher operational hours of these machines.

Commercial Push Mowers: Daily rates might start around $40-$70.
Commercial Self-Propelled/Walk-Behind Mowers: Daily rates could be $50-$90.
Commercial Riding Mowers (Zero-Turn, etc.): Daily rates can range from $90-$200+, with weekly and monthly rates offering significant discounts for ongoing projects.

These prices often include more durable equipment designed for heavy use and may come with different service agreements.

Where to Find Lawn Mower Rentals

You have several avenues for finding lawn mower rentals:

Local Equipment Rental Stores

These are often the most common and accessible places. Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and independent equipment rental shops usually have a wide selection.

Pros: Wide variety of mowers, knowledgeable staff, often competitive pricing.
Cons: May require you to transport the mower yourself.

When searching for “lawn mower rental near me cost,” your local big-box home improvement stores and dedicated equipment rental centers should be your first stops.

Peer-to-Peer Rental Platforms

Websites and apps that connect individuals looking to rent out their equipment are also an option.

Pros: Can sometimes find unique or specialized equipment, potentially lower prices, convenient locations.
Cons: Quality and maintenance of equipment can vary; insurance and liability might be more complex.

Specialty Landscaping Supply Stores

These might offer more professional-grade equipment, which could be more expensive but also more efficient for larger or tougher jobs.

The DIY Lawn Mower Rental Expense: What to Budget For

Beyond the base rental rate, be mindful of these potential expenses that contribute to your overall DIY lawn mower rental expense:

Deposit: Many rental companies require a security deposit, which is refunded upon safe return of the equipment.
Fuel: If not included, you’ll need to account for the cost of fuel. Gas mowers require gasoline, and some might need specific oil mixes. Electric mower rentals are less common but would eliminate this concern.
Transportation: Unless the rental company offers delivery (which usually incurs an extra fee), you’ll need a vehicle capable of transporting the mower. A trailer or a pickup truck is often necessary for larger mowers.
Damage Waiver/Insurance: Consider the cost of this added protection. A daily waiver might add $5-$15 to your rental cost, but it could save you hundreds or thousands if the mower is damaged. Read the terms carefully.
Taxes: Rental charges are typically subject to sales tax, which will vary by location.

Comparing Rental Costs: A Practical Approach

To ensure you get the best value, follow these steps when comparing lawn mower rental prices:

Define Your Needs: What type of mower do you need? How long will you need it? What’s the size and terrain of your lawn?
Research Local Options: Use online searches like “lawn mower rental near me cost” and check the websites of major retailers and local rental shops.
Get Written Quotes: Don’t rely on verbal estimates. Ask for written quotes that detail the rental rate, any additional fees, deposit requirements, and fuel policies.
Read the Rental Agreement Carefully: Pay close attention to the terms regarding usage, maintenance, fuel, late returns, and damage.
Check Mower Condition: Before leaving the rental facility, inspect the mower for any existing damage, check the oil and fuel levels, and ensure all controls are working properly. Document any pre-existing issues with photos or videos.

Example Rental Scenarios

Let’s illustrate with a couple of scenarios:

Scenario 1: Small Suburban Lawn
* Job: Mow a 1/3-acre flat lawn.
* Mower Needed: A self-propelled mower for about 4 hours.
* Rental Option: Local rental shop.
* Estimated Cost:
* Daily rental rate for self-propelled mower: $50
* Optional damage waiver: $10
* Fuel: Assume you return it with a full tank, cost of gas: $5
* Total Estimated Expense: $65

Scenario 2: Large Property with Overgrown Areas
* Job: Mow 1.5 acres, including some overgrown sections.
* Mower Needed: A riding lawn mower for a full weekend (Saturday-Sunday).
* Rental Option: Equipment rental center.
* Estimated Cost:
* Weekend rental rate (often calculated as 1.5x daily rate): $120/day * 2 days = $240
* Delivery and pickup fee: $50
* Fuel: Assume you need to fill it once: $20
* Total Estimated Expense: $310

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I rent a lawn mower for just a few hours?
A1: While most rentals are by the day, some companies may offer half-day or hourly rates for smaller equipment. It’s best to inquire directly with the rental provider.

Q2: What identification do I need to rent a lawn mower?
A2: Typically, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card for the deposit and rental charges. Some companies may also require proof of address.

Q3: What happens if the lawn mower breaks down while I’m renting it?
A3: Contact the rental company immediately. If the breakdown is due to a mechanical issue or normal wear and tear, they will usually arrange for a repair or replacement. If it’s due to misuse or negligence on your part, you may be responsible for repair costs.

Q4: Do I need to refuel the lawn mower before returning it?
A4: Most rental agreements require you to return the mower with a full tank of fuel, or they will charge you a refueling fee, which is usually higher than the cost of gas. Check the specific terms of your rental agreement.

Q5: What is the difference between renting a commercial mower and a residential mower?
A5: Commercial mowers are built for durability and higher usage, often featuring more powerful engines, heavier-duty components, and sometimes specialized cutting decks. Residential mowers are generally less robust. The commercial lawn mower rental pricing reflects these differences in build quality and performance.

Q6: Is it cheaper to rent a lawn mower or to buy one?
A6: For occasional use or if you only need it for a specific project, renting is almost always cheaper than buying. If you have a large property and mow frequently throughout the year, owning might be more cost-effective in the long run.

By carefully considering these factors and comparing prices, you can effectively manage your DIY lawn mower rental expense and find the right equipment for your landscaping needs.