hourly income - basic lawn care service only

[LilGreenMowing]

I am interested in what you all feel the 'industry standard' is for hourly income.

Also if anyone will speak about what their goal rate is, where you are currently and how you might get to a higher hourly rate. We are just starting out and would be grateful for some feedback.

Note: We were thinking $60.00 per hour would be our goal. We're finding 'the devil is in the detail' (edging/trimming and getting our customers initial cut to am impressive standard takes extra time. ie: the lawn is overgrown! It seems to be a catch-22 but if the lawn is 'prepped' for the start of the season the extra time might just be a great investment for a weekly paying customer.

we Canadian, maybe we are being too nice?

[RSK Property Maintenance]

60 an hour is certainly a start....I get 120-130 when i have someone helping me, but on my own especially when its wet outside or raining, i'll be lucky to get 40-80 an hour...

[Paul's Green Thumb]

Just so we are clear, are we talking GROSS ourly income? Or NET? Because so far my NET hourly income (actual profit, after expenses), has been more like $40/hr.

[M&L]

Basic lawn care around here is some kid that cuts Fescue at 1.5" in the middle of summer. And they don't even edge it. Those guys make
10-15/hour. Recently got a call from a lady who had that happen.

Working for some one else, 9-18/ hour

On your own with some knowledge in the business 30-65/ hour

With experience, good equipment, and a QAL 65+ per hour


**All numbers are rough estimates of gross earnings. Individual results may differ

[Paul's Green Thumb]

Ok, well that makes me feel better

Next year the goal is to go FT with the QAL... hopefully I can hit the ground running and make those kind of numbers! For now, as a "value-added" lawn boy (seeding, mulch, pavers, etc), I'm pretty happy with my +/- $40 net