Homeowners typically pay for basic yard cleanup tasks like debris removal, leaf raking, and trimming. The overall cost is driven by yard size, debris type, and the extent of cleanup required. This guide provides practical price ranges in USD to help set expectations.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debris Removal (per cubic yard) | $25 | $55 | $110 | Includes loading and disposal fees |
| Leaf Cleanup (per 1,000 sq ft) | $60 | $150 | $320 | Seasonal demand impact |
| Basic Mowing & Trimming (per visit) | $40 | $65 | $120 | Includes edging and pathways |
| Haul-Away & Dump Fees | $50 | $100 | $250 | Distance from disposal site matters |
| Total Project Range (typical 1–2 acres) | $400 | $1,000 | $3,000 | Assumes standard debris and single crew |
Overview Of Costs
Yard cleanup pricing combines labor, materials, and disposal. The Assumptions: region, yard size, debris amount, weather window.
Typical project ranges reflect simple cleanup to full seasonal clearing. A 0.25–0.5 acre yard with leaf piles and small branches falls on the lower end, while a larger or heavily wooded lot pushes the high end. Per-unit estimates help budget if only a portion of the yard is serviced.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $5 | $15 | $40 | Tarps, bags, and bags disposal supplies |
| Labor | $20 | $40 | $90 | Hourly crew rate; includes supervision |
| Equipment | $10 | $25 | $60 | Rakes, rakes, leaf blowers; rentals if needed |
| Permits | $0 | $0 | $150 | Usually not required for standard cleanup |
| Delivery/Disposal | $20 | $50 | $130 | Hauling to bagged waste or dump |
| Warranty | $0 | $0 | $40 | Limited guarantee on service completeness |
| Contingency | $0 | $30 | $100 | Weather delays or extra debris |
| Taxes | $0 | $0 | $120 | State and local taxes |
What Drives Price
Key drivers include yard size, debris type (leaves, branches, shrub trimming), and access to disposal sites. Regional housing density and plenty of curb appeal projects can raise prices. The presence of large trees, thick undergrowth, or wet ground conditions can require extra time and equipment.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by location. In urban areas, crane or crew availability and higher disposal fees push costs up, while rural sites may benefit from lower permit costs but longer travel times. Expect roughly ±10–25% differences between regions.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Most yard cleanup jobs bill by crew hours or per visit. A typical single-crew cleanup averages 3–6 hours for a small lot, with larger or more complex jobs running 8–16 hours. Labor rates commonly range from $40 to $90 per hour depending on local market and crew experience.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs may include extra bags, fuel surcharges, or weekend premiums. Seasonal demand peaks during fall leaf cleanup or spring cleanup can widen price gaps.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic scenario: 0.25 acre, light debris, one visit; labor 2 hours, materials $10, disposal $25. Total around $90–$180.
Mid-Range scenario: 0.5 acre, leaves plus small branches, two visits; labor 4–6 hours, disposal $60, equipment $25. Total around $350–$700.
Premium scenario: 1 acre with heavy debris and gated access; multiple visits, hauling off-site, and specialty disposal; labor 10–14 hours, materials $40, disposal $120, permits $100. Total around $1,000–$2,500.
Assumptions: region, yard size, debris amount.
Ways To Save
Bundle services by combining mowing, trimming, and cleanup in a single visit to reduce per-service overhead.
Request a written estimate with a breakdown and check for optional discounts for off-season work. Compare quotes from at least three providers to avoid overpaying on a basic cleanup.
Local Market Variations
Regional price differences can affect all line items; always factor drive time and disposal distance into the total.