Residential lawn mowing route

Busy homeowners, older residents and landlords who want a reliable yard service without owning equipment.

Flat price per visit based on lawn size, usually billed weekly or biweekly during the growing season. Add-ons like leaf cleanup, mulching or fertilizing raise the average job value.

• Comfortable operating mowers and trimmers
• Route planning to cut drive time
• Reliable and consistent with customers
• Basic equipment maintenance

• General liability insurance, and check whether you need commercial auto coverage for a work truck and trailer
• Check with your city or county about a local business license, and with your state about any rules on sales tax for services
• Seasonal income in colder states, plan for slower winter months or add snow removal separately
• Physical work in heat, and equipment injuries, so use proper protective gear
• Workers' compensation rules once you hire helpers

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether you need a truck or trailer and how much commercial-grade equipment you buy. Get quotes on equipment and insurance before you start.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many homes are on your route and how often you visit. Income can be seasonal in colder states, so plan for slower winter months.

Check general liability insurance, and whether you need commercial auto coverage for a work truck and trailer. Check with your city or county about a business license, and your state about sales tax rules for services. Also check workers' compensation rules once you hire helpers.