Lawn Mowers Are Flying Off the Shelves — Here’s Why Everyone’s Buying Now

Summary

Lawn mowers have experienced a significant surge in consumer demand in recent years, driven by a combination of lifestyle changes, technological innovations, and environmental concerns. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, increased interest in outdoor living spaces and home improvement has motivated homeowners and commercial property managers to invest more in lawn care, making lawn mowers a popular purchase. This trend is further bolstered by growing awareness of the aesthetic, recreational, and property value benefits associated with well-maintained lawns and gardens.
Technological advancements have reshaped the lawn mower market, with electric, battery-powered, and autonomous robotic models gaining prominence due to their convenience, quieter operation, and lower environmental impact compared to traditional gas-powered mowers. Innovations in lithium-ion battery technology and integration of smart features like GPS and remote control have enhanced product appeal, especially among urban and environmentally conscious consumers. Regulatory pressures, such as zero-emission mandates in states like California, alongside government incentives, have accelerated the adoption of cleaner, electric lawn care equipment.
The industry response has included significant collaboration and innovation by leading manufacturers aiming to meet evolving consumer demands while navigating challenges like supply chain disruptions and rising material costs. Despite price increases in recent years, the market is expected to stabilize and continue growing, supported by expanding residential and commercial landscaping activities worldwide. The shift toward sustainable practices and outdoor wellness further underscores the lawn mower market’s relevance in contemporary lifestyle and environmental contexts.
However, the transition raises some controversies, including concerns over the environmental footprint of battery production and electricity sources powering electric mowers, as well as the affordability and accessibility of advanced models for all consumers. Nevertheless, with ongoing technological progress and regulatory support, the lawn mower market is poised for steady expansion as it adapts to shifting consumer priorities and global sustainability goals.

Background

The surge in lawn mower sales can be attributed to several interrelated factors stemming from recent lifestyle and market changes. Following the pandemic-related lockdowns, people have developed a renewed interest in outdoor activities and home improvement, investing more in landscaping as a safe and appealing space. Well-maintained lawns and gardens not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of properties but also contribute to increased resale values, encouraging homeowners and establishments to prioritize lawn care.
Technological advancements have also played a significant role in shaping the lawn mower market. The integration of innovative features such as remote control operation, GPS navigation, and battery-powered engines has made lawn maintenance more convenient and efficient. These developments align with consumer preferences for quieter, lighter, and more environmentally friendly equipment. Electric and robotic lawn mowers have gained popularity due to their reduced noise, lower vibrations, and eco-friendly benefits, driving demand in the industry.
Moreover, the lawn mower market experiences strong seasonality, with peak sales occurring during spring and summer when outdoor lawn care activities are most common. Market growth is further supported by increased home decoration and remodeling trends, as well as significant merger and acquisition activity among leading manufacturers seeking to expand their technological capabilities and market share.

Market Overview

The lawn mower market has experienced significant growth driven by several key factors. Increased demand for lawn mowers for residential use is one of the primary market drivers, as more homeowners engage in lawn maintenance activities, partly fueled by the rising popularity of Do-It-Yourself culture. Additionally, the expansion of landscaping services and the growing awareness of the benefits of maintaining lawns and gardens contribute to the market’s upward trend.
Rapid urbanization and the development of new commercial spaces, alongside international investments and renovations of natural spaces, have further bolstered the demand for lawn mowers. These trends reflect a cultural shift toward prioritizing outdoor aesthetics and sustainability, which has heightened consumer interest in maintaining green spaces. The hospitality sector has also played a role, with increased global tourism driving the proliferation of hotels, resorts, and amusement parks that require lawn maintenance to preserve their visual appeal.
Market analyses employ a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and forecast demand and revenue potential accurately. Supply-side assessments and competitive benchmarking help in understanding the market’s full revenue landscape and penetration modeling. However, market growth faces challenges such as the high initial costs associated with electric and robotic lawn mowers, which can restrain adoption rates despite their increasing popularity.

Factors Driving Increased Demand

The rising demand for lawn mowers is fueled by a combination of technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and broader socio-economic trends. One major factor is the rapid innovation in electric and autonomous lawn mower technologies, particularly from Asian companies. For example, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. introduced an electric autonomous lawn mower in late 2023, reflecting a broader industry shift towards automation and convenience. Technological improvements, especially in lithium-ion battery technology, have enhanced the performance of electric mowers by providing longer run times, shorter charging durations, and greater operational efficiency, making these products more appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Environmental sustainability is another critical driver behind increased mower sales. Growing consumer awareness about the ecological impact of gas-powered equipment has shifted preferences toward cleaner, quieter, and zero-emission electric mowers. Regulatory actions, such as California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates requiring all new lawn mowers sold in California to be zero-emission by 2024, along with proposed bans on gas-powered outdoor equipment in states like Minnesota, further accelerate the adoption of electric models. Additionally, government incentives—including state rebates and federal tax credits for electric and commercial-grade mowers under the Inflation Reduction Act—help reduce upfront costs and encourage consumers and landscapers to choose eco-friendly options.
Demographic and lifestyle changes also contribute to the growing market. Increased urbanization and new commercial developments require more landscaping services, expanding demand for efficient lawn care equipment. Post-pandemic shifts have led to a renewed interest in outdoor spaces as homeowners and businesses invest more in lawn maintenance and outdoor living areas for recreation and well-being. The wellness trend, emphasizing therapeutic and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments, further motivates consumers to invest in advanced lawn care tools. Moreover, remote work arrangements have increased people’s engagement with their home environments, boosting the desire for well-maintained lawns and gardens as integral parts of home life.
Economic factors, although posing some challenges, generally support market growth. While supply chain disruptions and rising raw material costs led to increased average selling prices in 2022, these effects are expected to subside by the second half of 2023, allowing demand to rebound. Competitive pricing strategies, targeted marketing, and improved after-sales services help manufacturers build brand loyalty and capture expanding consumer segments. Furthermore, the development and adoption of cordless technology make lawn mowers more user-friendly, which is particularly attractive to residential users.

Consumer Behavior and Demographics

Consumers are increasingly prioritizing outdoor living spaces, which has led to a notable rise in lawn mower sales. This trend is driven by a growing middle-class population with higher disposable incomes, who are willing to invest in home improvement and gardening activities. As lifestyles shift toward valuing outdoor aesthetics and sustainable environments, demand for quality lawn care equipment has surged. Gardening is widely popular across various demographics; for instance, approximately 30% of residential homes in the United States maintain kitchen-based gardens, reflecting the sustained interest in gardening as a leisure activity that offers relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
The demand is further segmented by the type of lawn mower preferred. Electric-powered mowers currently dominate the market, accounting for the largest revenue share of 29.18% in 2022. Their popularity stems from ease of use, high torque-to-weight ratio, and environmental benefits compared to traditional gas-powered models. The shift toward eco-friendly lawn care solutions aligns with a growing consumer awareness of environmental sustainability, driving preferences away from gasoline-powered equipment due to their higher emissions and ecological impact.
Demographically, lawn mower manufacturers and marketers are focusing on upper-class urban consumers who may lack the space or time for traditional lawn maintenance but desire efficient, modern solutions. These consumers tend to favor products with advanced features such as cordless technology, a variety of speeds, and customizable styles to fit their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Personalized marketing strategies and targeted advertising are employed to engage these specific demographic segments effectively, while competitive pricing and robust after-sales service help build brand loyalty in an evolving market landscape.
Additionally, the residential and commercial sectors both contribute significantly to market demand. The residential sector is fueled by the increasing interest in gardening as a hobby across all age groups, while commercial landscaping businesses adopt new technologies and software to improve efficiency and remain competitive in a rapidly shifting market environment. Overall, consumer behavior is shaped by a combination of lifestyle changes, environmental consciousness, and technological advancements, all of which are pivotal in driving current trends in the lawn mower market.

Industry Response

The lawn mower industry has been actively responding to several market dynamics and challenges to meet the rising consumer demand and navigate ongoing supply chain disruptions. Key manufacturers such as Black & Decker, Husqvarna, GreenWorks Tools, Robert Bosch GmbH, Makita, Ryobi, Hitachi, The Toro Company, Honda, and Deere & Co. have been central players driving innovation and adapting their strategies to sustain growth.
One significant industry development is the partnership between Deere & Company and EGO, which enables Deere to offer advanced battery-powered lawn care equipment by leveraging EGO’s expertise in battery technology combined with John Deere’s engineering and design capabilities. This collaboration exemplifies the industry’s push toward more environmentally friendly and efficient electric mowers, as highlighted by Bosch’s launch of the UniversalRotak 2x18V-37-550 cordless lawn mower in 2023. Such initiatives align with growing consumer preferences for electric models due to concerns about gasoline-powered equipment’s environmental impact.
Despite these advancements, the industry continues to face challenges such as semiconductor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rising raw material and energy costs, partly fueled by global events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These factors have led to increased average selling prices (ASP) for lawn mowers in 2022 and early 2023, although these price pressures are expected to ease by the second half of 2023. Weather variability and drought conditions, especially in parts of the U.S., also contribute to short-term fluctuations in demand and sales performance.
To enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness, companies are adopting new technologies, including upgraded field service software that improves accuracy and process speed, helping to offset some supply chain challenges. Moreover, personalized marketing strategies, targeted advertising, competitive pricing, and strong after-sales service have become crucial in engaging specific demographic segments and building brand loyalty amid a rapidly evolving market.
Additionally, the industry is seeing diversification in target markets and product offerings. Innovative concepts like autonomous robotic lawn mowers, designed to appeal to urban consumers who seek convenience and minimal lawn care involvement, are gaining attention. These products are marketed with distinctive branding and varied features, such as multiple speed settings and color options, to differentiate them from traditional models and attract higher-income urban customers.
In terms of sales channels, manufacturers and dealers are adapting distribution strategies to maximize accessibility. While some brands are exclusively sold through large home improvement retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s, others utilize independent dealers. Consumers are encouraged to shop around to find the best models and prices, reflecting the competitive nature of the marketplace.

Environmental and Social Impact

Traditional gas-powered lawn mowers have long been the standard choice for many households, but their environmental footprint has become increasingly concerning. These mowers emit pollutants that contribute to smog formation, which poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as young children and the elderly. Exposure to emissions from gas mowers has been linked to respiratory problems, cancer, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues. Moreover, pollution is not limited to use; it also occurs during fuel handling, such as pouring or spilling gasoline.
In response to these concerns, there has been a growing shift towards electric lawn mowers, which offer notable environmental benefits. Lifecycle assessments comparing electric and gas-powered mowers reveal that electric models generally produce fewer emissions throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal. These assessments consider various stages including manufacturing, usage, and end-of-life impacts using comprehensive methodologies and databases. Despite the higher upfront cost and the need to charge and eventually replace batteries—a factor not present with gasoline mowers—electric mowers are gaining popularity for their reduced direct emissions and quieter operation. Charging times for batteries have improved significantly, often requiring less than 90 minutes.
However, it is important to consider the source of the electricity used to charge electric mowers. Since the majority of electricity in the United States is generated from fossil fuels, only about 13% comes from renewable sources nationally. This reliance on nonrenewable energy affects the overall environmental footprint of battery-powered mowers. Additionally, battery disposal and lifespan remain concerns, as current lithium-ion technology, while improved, still faces limitations that impact professional users the most.
From a social perspective, electric mowers offer advantages beyond emissions reductions. They operate with much less noise and lack the unpleasant odors associated with gasoline engines, enhancing the user experience and reducing noise pollution in neighborhoods. These attributes make electric lawn equipment a preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers and those prioritizing health and well-being in their communities.
Recent regulatory efforts, especially in regions struggling with air quality issues, reflect growing governmental focus on reducing emissions from small engines like lawn mowers. For example, areas designated as severe air quality violators are considering stricter policies to cut ground-level ozone, pushing both consumers and manufacturers toward cleaner technologies.
Meanwhile, the increasing cultural emphasis on sustainability and outdoor living spaces fuels demand for environmentally friendly lawn care solutions. As more homeowners seek aesthetically pleasing yet eco-conscious landscapes, the lawn mower market is adapting to meet these social and environmental expectations. The trend towards maintaining healthy, functional outdoor environments not only supports personal well-being but also encourages practices that mitigate environmental harm.

Future Outlook

The lawn mower industry is poised for steady growth in the coming years, driven by several converging factors. In 2023, the global market was valued at approximately $31.18 billion and is expected to reach $32.31 billion in 2023, with projections indicating continued expansion through 2030. This growth is supported by increasing consumer demand tied to new housing developments, commercial property growth, and a greater focus on outdoor aesthetics.
Despite some headwinds in 2022, including semiconductor shortages, supply chain disruptions, rising raw material costs, and surging oil prices related to geopolitical tensions, these challenges are expected to be temporary. OEMs and dealers responded to these conditions by raising average selling prices, but price stabilization is anticipated by the second half of 2023. Additionally, government initiatives, such as China’s eco-city development programs, are opening new avenues for market expansion, particularly in Asia, which is projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2022.
A notable trend influencing the future landscape of the lawn mower market is the shift toward electric and battery-powered models. This transition is fueled by growing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures to reduce emissions, and consumer preferences for quieter, more user-friendly equipment. As a result, manufacturers are increasingly investing in these technologies to meet demand and enhance competitiveness.
Technological advancements beyond product design are also impacting the sector. The adoption of advanced field service software and digital tools is improving operational efficiency, accuracy, and customer service, enabling businesses to lower costs and pass savings on to consumers. These improvements contribute to the overall resilience and growth potential of the lawn care industry.
Taken together, these factors suggest a positive outlook for the lawn mower market, with anticipated steady revenue growth of around 3-4% annually driven by consumer spending, sustainability trends, and technological innovation. The continued expansion of hybrid work arrangements, which encourage home improvements and outdoor maintenance, may further bolster demand for lawn mowers and related services.

The content is provided by Sierra Knightley, Scopewires