For the first time since 2022, U.S. gas prices have shot up past an average of $4 a gallon, fueled by recent changes in the Middle East oil landscape.
Iran’s recent agreement to a temporary ceasefire on April 7 may bring some relief to the oil supply disruptions but any renewed tensions could cause prices to soar again.
Sky-high fuel costs affect more than just drivers. They also drive up the cost of everyday services for homeowners, including lawn care.
As a homeowner, it's important to stay informed on the news and energy market changes—and to recognize how the increasing cost of fuel affects landscaping companies.
That information will allow you to plan ahead and implement strategies that could help keep lawn care affordable.
Why 'flat-rate' seasonal contracts are disappearing
Flat-rate contracts work well when operating expenses—particulary fuel costs—remain relatively stable.
Now that there’s much more volatility at the pump, it’s risky for lawn care providers to lock in pricing for the entire season.
“Fuel is one of the few costs that can swing significantly week to week, and it directly impacts profit margins. Rather than baking in a large buffer, many lawn care companies are shifting to transparent, variable fuel surcharges,” says Skye Durrant, co-founder at LawnGuru in Ann Arbor, MI.
The variable fuel model allows these companies to stay competitive on base pricing while only adjusting when costs actually rise.
“It also creates more transparency for customers and helps explain why pricing that worked over the past few years is no longer sustainable,” adds Durrant.
How landscapers are adjusting prices
Most landscapers are trying to strike a balance between protecting profit margins and retaining customers.
“Some of them are introducing fuel or travel surcharges instead of raising base rates across the board. Others are tightening service areas to avoid inefficient, long-distance jobs and prioritizing route density in how they market and accept work,” explains Durrant.
In many cases, landscapers are willing to compromise and meet customers halfway.
For example, customers might score discounts when they can service multiple homes in the same area. Those who are flexible with scheduling and allow companies to choose the most efficient day for service may land better pricing as well.
“At the end of the day, most providers would rather adjust how they deliver the service than lose customers entirely. Homeowners who are flexible and collaborative can usually find ways to keep costs reasonable even in a higher fuel cost environment,” says Durrant.
Ways to save on lawn care
As a homeowner, you have more control over what you pay for lawn care than you might realize, especially if you’re flexible and creative.
Here are several money-saving strategies to consider:
Shift to biweekly service
“In many regions, particularly outside peak growth months, moving from weekly to biweekly mowing can reduce costs without a major impact on lawn quality,” explains Durrant. Most landscaping companies will let you change your frequency at any time.
Coordinate with neighbors
According to Durrant, “neighborhood routing” is one of the biggest cost savers as travel time is often a silent profit killer in the landscaping business.
When multiple homes on the same street use the same provider, it reduces drive time and fuel consumption and providers are often willing to pass those savings along. Don’t be afraid to get your neighbors on board.
Skip unnecessary cuts
During slower growth periods, like peak summer heat, skipping unnecessary cuts can save money and is often better for the lawn’s health. If you’re unsure when you can forgo lawn care, ask a pro for advice.
Bundle
One "full-service" visit for aeration, fertilization, and mowing is always cheaper than three separate visits with three separate mobilization fees. Most landscapers offer bundling discounts that can be substantial.
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