How Much to Charge for Lawn Mowing in Illinois?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 12.8M residents and a 67.3% homeownership rate, Illinois has approximately 8,622,818 potential lawn mowing customers. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention. The 6-month season is shorter, so plan your off-season strategy early.
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Suggested: $33/hr based on Illinois wages
Gas, blade wear, maintenance
Illinois Lawn Mowing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for lawn mowing in Illinois.
Lawn Mowing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per lawn (1/4 acre) | $28 | $42 | $56 |
| Per sq ft | $0.01 | $0.02 | $0.03 |
| Per hour | $33 | $42 | $51 |
Prices adjusted for Illinois cost of living (93% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Lawn Mowing in Illinois?
Estimates based on Illinois average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Illinois vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $33/hr | 93% | high |
| National Average | $35/hr | 100% | - |
| Wisconsin(neighbor) | $33/hr | 93% | high |
| Iowa(neighbor) | $31/hr | 89% | medium |
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Illinois Licensing Requirements
- •No state license for most services
- •Chicago has specific licensing (check BACP)
- •Downstate requirements are simpler
- •Workers comp required for all employees
This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Illinois Lawn Mowing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful lawn mowing business in Illinois
Chicago-area frost dates (April 15-October 15) define your active season. Market spring startup and fall cleanup.
Downstate Illinois (Springfield, Champaign) has lower prices but also lower costs. Different market than Chicago.
Lawn care business license required in Chicago. Check BACP requirements before starting.
Key Insight: Illinois offers two distinct markets — premium Chicago suburbs and value-focused downstate communities.
Lawn Mowing Demand in Illinois by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for lawn mowing in Illinois?
In Illinois, lawn mowing rates range from $26-$50/hour, with an average of $33/hour. Illinois's cost of living is 93% of the national average. Major cities like Naperville command higher rates ($40/hr), while smaller markets like Rockford average $30/hr.
What's the Illinois average for lawn mowing services?
The Illinois statewide average for lawn mowing is $33/hour or approximately $99-$165 per job. This reflects Illinois's 93% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Illinois cities have the highest lawn mowing rates?
In Illinois, Naperville has the highest lawn mowing rates at around $40/hour due to its 115% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville.
Do I need a license for lawn mowing in Illinois?
Illinois licensing: No state license for most services Chicago has specific licensing (check BACP) Downstate requirements are simpler Workers comp required for all employees This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Is Illinois a good market for lawn mowing businesses?
Illinois offers a competitive market for lawn mowing with rates averaging $33/hour. The state's 93% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Lawn Mowing pricing data for Illinois is sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau cost of living data, and verified quotes from local service professionals.
Data Sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Illinois Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026