If you ever stand at your window after a harsh winter, storm season, or simply weeks of neglecting to upkeep, you see what a disorganized yard looks like. Dead tree limbs, weeds, tall grass, and dead leaves can get the best of you. And if you’re like other homeowners, you’re likely thinking, “I need to clean this up. But how much will it cost me?

Yard cleanup is not only about curb appeal; it’s about having a healthy, safe, and enjoyable lawn for your family. If you’re gearing up for spring, recovering from a storm, or staging to sell your house, understanding how much yard cleanup will cost can help you plan wisely.

If you are searching for lawn care services in Chicago, IL, this article will walk you through what influences costs, what is included in a yard cleanup, and how to spend your money wisely.

What Does Yard Cleanup Include?

Let’s get down to specifics before we discuss figures. A standard yard cleanup consists of what, exactly? Services will differ from business to business as well as on an individual basis, but most cleanups include:

• Raking and leaf removal
• Removing branches, sticks, and debris
• Weed control and pulling
• Mowing and edging
• Pruning shrubs and small trees
• Mulching flower beds
• Hauling away yard waste

A few cleanup tasks also involve gutter cleaning or power washing sidewalks, based on the provider.

How Much Does Yard Cleanup Cost?

Now, on to the million-dollar question. How much yard cleanup costs varies based on several factors, such as the size of your yard, how bad shape it’s in, and what time of year. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay:

Basic Yard Cleanup: $100–$250

This would normally include:

• Leaf raking
• Debris pickup
• Light mowing

This is great for smaller yards or homes that are maintained regularly but just need a seasonal refresh.

Moderate Cleanup: $250–$500

A mid-range job might include:

• Deep leaf and weed removal
• Hedge trimming
• Mulching beds
• Disposal of multiple bags of yard waste

This is a good option if your yard has been neglected for a couple of months or if you’re prepping for spring or fall.

Full-Service Cleanup: $500–$1,000+

If your yard is large or in rough shape, a full-service cleanup might be the best call. This could include:

• Tree branch removal
• Pruning trees or large shrubs
• Re-seeding bare patches
• Gutter cleaning
• Waste hauling with a trailer

Prices in a city like Chicago may trend toward the higher end, especially during the busy spring and fall seasons. If you are considering hiring professional lawn care services in Chicago, IL, it’s always smart to get a few quotes to compare services and pricing.

Factors That Affect Yard Cleanup Costs

Let’s talk about what drives the price up, or keeps it budget-friendly.

1. Size of Your Yard

No surprise here: the larger the area, the more work it takes. A small urban backyard might cost far less than a big front-and-back combo with trees and flower beds.

2. Yard Condition

A well-maintained yard that needs a simple refresh will cost less than one with overgrown weeds, fallen limbs, and matted-down leaves from last fall.

3. Type of Services Needed

Just need leaves raked and hauled away? That’s cheaper than trimming shrubs, reseeding patches, or pulling thick weeds by hand.

4. Time of Year

Spring and fall are the busiest seasons for cleanup services. During these peak times, rates can be slightly higher because of demand. Booking early can help you lock in a better price.

5. Disposal Costs

Some companies include hauling and disposal in their price, while others charge extra. If your job includes clearing out large debris or lots of yard bags, ask if that’s included upfront.

Is It Worth Hiring a Pro?

It depends on your time, energy, and tools. If you have a small yard, a rake, and a Saturday morning to spare, you might do it yourself. But if your schedule is tight or you just don’t want to deal with it, hiring a pro makes sense.

Professionals have the tools and experience to do the job faster and better, and they will haul everything away when they’re done. If you’re already paying for lawn care services in Chicago, IL, check if cleanup is included or offered at a discount.

How to Get the Best Value

Here are a few tips to keep your yard looking great without overspending:

• Get multiple quotes. Prices can vary a lot, even within the same city.
• Ask what’s included. Some companies offer package deals or seasonal discounts.
• Bundle services. If you’re already hiring someone to mow or trim, ask about cleanup bundles.
• Stay on top of maintenance. Regular care keeps cleanup costs lower in the long run.

Conclusion

Yard cleanup isn’t just about making your home look nice. It’s about preventing bigger problems like pest infestations, lawn disease, or tripping hazards. The cost of yard cleanup can vary, but with the right plan (and the right team), it’s a smart investment in your home’s health and value.

At Hernandez Lawn Care, we are Ready to help

At Hernandez Lawn Care, we specialize in reliable and affordable lawn care services in Chicago, IL, including seasonal yard cleanup. Whether your yard needs a quick touch-up or a full makeover, we have got the tools, crew, and experience to get it done right.

We offer:

• Spring and fall yard cleanup 
• Leaf removal and debris hauling 
• Lawn mowing, trimming, and edging 
• Gutter cleaning and seasonal prep

Our goal is to make your outdoor space clean, healthy, and stress-free without breaking your budget.

Let’s Clean Up That Yard

Ready to get your yard back in shape? Call us today for a free quote or schedule your cleanup online. At Hernandez Lawn Care, we treat your lawn like it’s our own.

Your yard deserves the best—let’s take care of it together.