How much does yard cleanup cost?
Standard cleanup is $200–$700 for a 1/4 acre lot. Heavily overgrown yards run $800–$3,000.
Yard Cleanup Cost Calculator — Free 2026 Spring & Fall Estimate
How much does yard cleanup cost? Most jobs run $200–$700 for a standard 1/4 acre, but heavily overgrown yards, post-storm cleanup, or full brush clearing can climb to $2,000–$3,000+. Use the calculator below to get a free estimate for your specific yard size and debris level.
Estimated cost range
$320 – $580
Typical for a medium-size standard spring cleanup at national-average pricing.
Yard cleanup pricing breakdown (2026)
| Cleanup type | Small yard | Medium yard | Large yard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring cleanup | $150–$300 | $300–$550 | $550–$950 |
| Fall leaf removal | $180–$350 | $350–$650 | $650–$1,200 |
| Overgrown yard | $400–$800 | $800–$1,500 | $1,500–$2,800 |
| Brush clearing | $500–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,200 | $2,200–$4,500 |
| Post-storm | $300–$700 | $700–$1,400 | $1,400–$3,000 |
How yard cleanup pricing works
Most landscaping crews price yard cleanup one of three ways: hourly ($45–$95/hour for a 2–3 person crew), per-yard flat rate (driven by size + debris level), or per-truckload of disposed material ($50–$150/load). The hourly model favours the homeowner if your yard is in decent shape; flat rate favours you if you have a lot of debris.
The number-one cause of quote-shock on yard cleanup is disposal fees. Make sure your quote specifies whether hauling is included or billed separately, and how many truckloads are assumed. Yard waste tipping fees at municipal facilities range from $20–$75 per cubic yard.
What's included in a typical spring cleanup
- Removing winter leaves, sticks, and debris
- Light pruning of dead or damaged branches
- Cutting back perennials and ornamental grasses
- Edging bed lines
- Cleaning patios, walkways, and driveways
- One pass with a mower (if grass is up)
- Hauling all debris off-site
Spring cleanup pricing usually does not include: mulch installation, fertilization, aeration, dethatching, planting, or anything structural. Those are line-item add-ons.
DIY vs hiring a crew
Spring cleanup on a small yard is a reasonable weekend DIY for an average-fit homeowner with a leaf blower, a rake, and a way to haul bags. Save: $200–$400. Time: 6–10 hours. For larger yards or anything involving heavy brush or downed trees, hire a crew — it's cheaper than the emergency-room visit when a chainsaw kicks back.
Related calculators
Need to go beyond cleanup? Check out our lawn installation cost calculator, garden cost calculator, or the full backyard renovation calculator. Also useful: our 2026 landscaping cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does yard cleanup take?
A 2–3 person crew typically finishes a medium yard in 3–6 hours. Heavy overgrowth or storm cleanup can run 1–2 full days.
Should I tip the cleanup crew?
Not expected. If they did exceptional work or extra haul-away, $20–$50 per crew member is generous.
Spring or fall — which is cheaper?
Fall cleanup is typically 10–15% cheaper than spring because demand is lower. If you can do only one, fall protects the yard better through winter.