Quick Answer (TL;DR): Most Ontario homeowners pay $100 to $250 for lawn aeration, depending on lawn size, equipment used, and whether the service is bundled with overseeding or fertilization. Larger properties or premium packages can push costs to $300 or more.
If you’ve been considering aeration but aren’t sure what to budget, this guide covers average pricing, what’s included, and how to get the most out of your investment.
What Is Lawn Aeration and Why Does It Matter?
Aeration is one of those lawn care services that people often skip—until they see the difference it makes. By pulling small plugs of soil out of the ground, aeration relieves compaction and allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the root system. For Ontario homeowners, where many lawns sit on heavy clay, this process is especially valuable.
The benefits go beyond just looks. Aerated lawns grow thicker, resist drought better, recover faster after winter, and develop stronger root systems. If your grass feels hard underfoot or you notice thin, patchy growth, aeration is almost always the fix.
Average Cost of Lawn Aeration in Ontario
| Property Size | Average Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small lawn (under 2,000 sq. ft.) | $100 – $150 | Basic service with walk-behind machine |
| Medium lawn (2,000–5,000 sq. ft.) | $150 – $200 | Most standard suburban homes |
| Large lawn (5,000–10,000 sq. ft.) | $200 – $300 | Requires more time and multiple passes |
| Estate-sized (10,000+ sq. ft.) | $300 – $500 | Often priced per 1,000 sq. ft. |
Most suburban homeowners fall right into the $150–$200 range, which is why aeration is considered one of the best value services for lawn health.
What Affects the Cost of Aeration?
Not every yard is the same, and that’s why prices vary. A small, flat suburban yard can be aerated in under an hour with basic equipment. On the other hand, a large property with compacted clay soil may need multiple passes with a professional-grade machine.
The most common factors that affect pricing are:
- Yard Size – The bigger the lawn, the more time and labour it requires.
- Equipment Type – Walk-behind aerators cost less but take longer. Ride-on machines are faster but increase service rates.
- Soil Condition – Hard, compacted soil may need multiple passes.
- Add-On Services – Overseeding or fertilization with aeration adds $50–$150.
- Frequency – Annual contracts or spring + fall aeration packages may be discounted.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
For many homeowners, the biggest question is whether it’s worth renting an aerator and tackling the job themselves, or paying a professional crew. Both approaches can work, but the experience is very different.
DIY Aeration
Doing it yourself is cheaper upfront, but it comes with challenges. Rental aerators are heavy, awkward to transport, and often require a truck or trailer. A typical rental runs $75–$100 per day, and if you’ve never used one before, expect a steep learning curve.
Pros:
DIY aeration makes sense if you’re trying to save money and don’t mind putting in the physical effort. It’s a flexible option that allows you to work at your own pace and focus only on the areas of your lawn that need it most.
- Lower cost if you already have time and equipment
- Flexible scheduling — no need to wait for a contractor
- Control over how and where you aerate your lawn
Cons:
The downside is that it’s hard, time-consuming work. Rental machines can be tough to handle, and it’s easy to damage sprinkler heads or underground lines if you’re not careful. For larger yards, a DIY approach often takes far longer than expected.
- Physically demanding, especially on compacted or larger lawns
- Risk of damaging irrigation systems or sprinkler heads
- Can take most of the day compared to a professional crew
Professional Aeration
Hiring a lawn care company costs more, but you’re paying for efficiency, expertise, and results. Crews use commercial-grade equipment that covers lawns quickly and evenly, and they often include cleanup as part of the service.
Pros:
Professional aeration is ideal if you want the job done quickly and with guaranteed results. It saves you time, reduces the risk of mistakes, and often comes with the option to add overseeding or fertilizer right after aeration.
- Professional equipment ensures consistent depth and coverage
- Saves hours of labour and heavy lifting
- Bundling with overseeding/fertilization improves lawn recovery
Cons:
The only real drawback is cost and scheduling. Seasonal demand is high, so you’ll need to book early, and you’ll pay more upfront than DIY. However, for most homeowners, the trade-off is worth it.
- Higher upfront cost than renting equipment
- Must schedule in advance during busy spring and fall seasons
Best Time to Aerate in Ontario
Timing matters. Aeration is most effective when grass is actively growing and conditions aren’t too hot or dry.
- Spring (April–May): Helps repair damage from winter compaction and salt.
- Fall (September–October): The most popular option—encourages deep root growth before frost sets in.
Summer aeration is possible, but results are usually weaker due to heat and drought stress.
How to Save Money on Aeration
Aeration doesn’t have to break the bank. Many companies offer packages or discounts if you plan ahead.
- Bundle with Overseeding or Fertilization – Often cheaper as a package than as separate services.
- Neighbourhood Discounts – Ask if your provider offers lower rates when multiple homes on the same street book together.
- Book Early – Fall and spring fill quickly, and prices tend to go up in peak season.
- Annual Contracts – Pre-booking both spring and fall aeration often comes with a discount.
Final Word
For most Ontario homes, lawn aeration costs between $100 and $250 per season, with larger or more complex yards reaching higher. While DIY can work for small lawns, most homeowners find the time savings, efficiency, and results of professional aeration well worth the cost.
If your lawn is looking tired, compacted, or patchy, aeration is one of the best investments you can make for a greener, healthier yard.