If you want a green lawn in Arizona, the choice is usually artificial turf or a Bermuda grass lawn. Turf costs much more up front but uses no irrigation water. Grass is cheap to put in but needs a lot of water and weekly care.
| Artificial turf | Real grass (Bermuda) | |
|---|---|---|
| Up-front cost | About $8–$16 per sq ft installed (Phoenix) | Much lower to install |
| Water | No irrigation; occasional rinse | A Bermuda lawn needs more than 55 inches of irrigation a year (UA Extension) |
| Summer heat | Can get hotter than asphalt in direct sun (ASU study) | Stays cooler to the touch when watered |
| Upkeep | Brushing, rinsing, topping up infill | Mowing, edging, fertilizing; overseeding for winter green |
| Lifespan | About 15–25 years for quality turf | Ongoing |
| Best for | Pets, kids' play areas, putting greens, a no-mow look | Large play lawns where you can afford the water |
Cost
Installed turf in the Phoenix area runs about $8 to $16 per square foot, so a 500 sq ft backyard is roughly $4,000 to $8,000 (turf cost guide). A grass lawn is far cheaper to install, but you pay for water, mowing and fertilizer every year.
Water
University of Arizona Extension notes a Bermuda lawn needs more than 55 inches of irrigation a year, versus less than 18 inches for an average xeriscape. That gap is why Arizona cities pay rebates to remove grass. Rules differ on what can replace it, so check rebates by city before you choose turf.
Heat
An Arizona State University study on a 114°F day found artificial turf hotter than asphalt and brick from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Plan shade over turf play areas and ask installers about cooling products.
Our take
For small, high-use areas like a dog run or kids' play space, turf usually wins in the desert. For large areas, many Arizona homeowners mix: turf where people play, decorative rock and desert plants everywhere else.
Find a licensed pro
Every contractor on Dry Heat Yards has an active Arizona ROC license, checked monthly.
Find turf installersFAQ
Is artificial turf worth it in Arizona?
For small, high-use areas it often is: no irrigation water, no mowing, and green all year. It costs about $8 to $16 per sq ft installed in the Phoenix area and gets very hot in direct sun.
How much water does a grass lawn use in Arizona?
University of Arizona Extension notes a Bermuda grass lawn needs more than 55 inches of irrigation a year.
Can I get a rebate for replacing grass with turf?
Some Arizona cities pay grass removal rebates, but each program has rules about what can replace the grass. Check with your water provider before you remove anything.
Prices are ranges from our sourced cost guides, checked November 2026, before tax. Always get written quotes from licensed contractors.