If you’ve ever shopped for a lawn mower and felt unsure about the price tag, you're not alone. Timing matters—a lot. Buy too early in the season, and you might pay full price. Wait too long, and the best models might be gone. So, what’s the best time of year to buy a lawn mower without breaking the bank?
In this guide, we’ll break down seasonal trends, retail strategies, and buying tips to tell you the best time to buy a lawn mower—whether you’re eyeing a classic push mower or a high-tech robot mower.
Why Timing Matters When Buying a Lawn Mower
Lawn mower prices aren’t just about the specs—they’re about timing. Like most seasonal tools, mowers are more expensive when demand peaks. That usually happens in late spring and early summer, when homeowners across the country are racing to tame their lawns.
Early in the season, retailers stock up on fresh inventory at full price, knowing people need a mower now. But once summer fades and mowing slows, stores are left with extra stock they want to move quickly. That’s when discounts start showing up—especially in late summer and early fall.
There’s also the yearly cycle of new models being released. As manufacturers prepare to launch next year’s lineup, current models get marked down to make space. If you’re not chasing the latest features, this is prime time to grab a quality mower for less. In short, if you understand how retailers think—when they want to sell versus when they have to sell—that means you know the best time to buy a lawn mower, and you can plan your purchase accordingly and save a good chunk of money.
The Best Times of Year to Buy a Lawn Mower
Timing your lawn mower purchase is key if you want the best value for your money. Prices shift throughout the year based on inventory, demand, and model releases. Here’s when to shop smart:
1. Early Fall (September to October)
This is arguably the best time of year to buy a lawn mower. Why? Retailers are clearing out inventory to make room for winter products and next season’s models. That means steep discounts, especially on last year’s stock.
New models for the following year often hit the shelves during this time, so older ones are marked down to move quickly. You’ll still find a good range of options, but at significantly better prices than in spring.
2. Late Spring Sales (May – Early June)
Spring is peak mowing season, but it’s also a time for holiday sales events like Memorial Day and Father’s Day. Brands often offer temporary discounts on newly released models to attract early-season buyers.
While prices may not be as low as in the fall, this period gives you access to fresh stock and the latest features, so it's a good balance of variety and value—especially if you want a specific mower model or spec.
3. End-of-Season Clearance (Late Summer – Early Fall)
Around August to early September, retailers begin aggressive clearance sales to clear floor space. You might not have as many options left, but you’ll find some of the deepest discounts of the year.
It’s ideal if you don’t need a mower immediately and can wait for a bargain—or if you're planning ahead for next season.
When NOT to Buy a Lawn Mower
If you’re aiming to save money by buying a lawn mower, timing is everything—and early spring is not your friend.
From March to mid-May, lawn mower demand is at its peak. Homeowners are gearing up for the growing season, which gives retailers little reason to offer deals. You’ll likely find full-priced models with minimal discounts, even on basic options.
This period also marks the release of brand-new models. While these may come with the latest features or design tweaks, they almost always come at premium pricing. If you’re not in urgent need of a mower, it's better to wait a few months for prices to drop once the initial rush slows down.
In short: unless your current mower breaks down completely, avoid shopping during the early-season hype - it always never the best time to buy a lawn mower. You’ll pay more and get less. Of course, you can buy it if you really need one or you like this model of mower.
In-Store vs Online: Where to Find the Best Deals
When it comes to finding the best price on a lawn mower, one of the biggest questions is: buy in-store or shop online?
In-Store Shopping
Stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or your local hardware store—can give you the chance to physically check the mower before buying. You might find floor model discounts, seasonal clearance tags, or local manager specials that aren’t advertised online. But availability can be hit or miss, and stock moves fast during peak months.
Online Shopping
Obviously, online shopping offers more flexibility. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and manufacturer websites often run limited-time promos, especially around big sales events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, or Cyber Monday. You’ll also see free shipping offers, bundle deals, and flash sales that brick-and-mortar stores can’t always match.
Don’t forget to check brand-direct websites like Mammotion, Honda, or Husqvarna for early-bird deals on new models or exclusive discounts for email subscribers.
Pro Tips:
- Use tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to track price drops online and compare across platforms, and they are easy to find the best time of year to buy a lawn mower.
- If you’re after convenience and selection, go online. If you want to test before buying or grab a clearance deal fast, pop into your local store. The best route? Do both—compare online prices, then check if a local retailer can match or beat it.
Bonus Tip: Consider Buying Used or Refurbished Mowers
If you’re on a budget or looking for maximum value, a used or refurbished lawn mower can offer serious savings—sometimes up to 50% off the retail price.
Used Mowers
They are widely available through local listings like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even garage sales. This route works best if you’re comfortable inspecting the mower yourself. Check the engine condition, blade sharpness, signs of rust, and whether it starts easily. Ask about maintenance history—when was it last serviced, and are there receipts?
Refurbished Mowers
On the other hand, refurbished mowers are typically factory-inspected, repaired, and tested—sold by certified dealers or directly by the manufacturer. These units may have been returns or lightly used display models. You’ll often get a limited warranty, which adds a layer of peace of mind compared to buying second-hand from an individual.
However, both options come with risks. Parts could wear out sooner, and you may not get the latest features or battery technology if it’s an older model. Avoid models with unclear histories or heavy cosmetic damage, and steer clear of sellers who can’t demonstrate the mower working properly.
Pro Tips:
- Look for refurbished units on brand sites like Greenworks, Husqvarna, or Mammotion, where quality control is stricter than third-party sellers.
- If you do your homework, buying used or refurbished can stretch your money much further, and you don't need to consider the best time of year to buy a lawn mower—just be sure you know what you’re getting into.
Best Time to Buy a Lawn Mower by Type
Not all lawn mowers go on sale at the same time. Depending on the type of mower you’re after—whether it’s a simple push model or a premium robotic mower—the best time to buy a mower can vary a lot. Here's how to plan it right.
1. Push Mowers
Push mowers are usually the first to go on sale during seasonal promotions. Spring and early summer (March to June) bring the highest demand and often the highest prices. However, you’ll sometimes see solid deals around Father’s Day or Memorial Day. For the best savings, wait until early fall (September–October) when retailers are clearing shelves for winter. That’s when you’ll find the steepest discounts and a good variety still in stock.
2. Riding Mowers
Riding mowers are big-ticket items, and discounts tend to show up later in the season. If you're eyeing one of these, August to October is your window. That’s when retailers are trying to move out bulky stock before the cold sets in. Expect bigger markdowns compared to push mowers, especially on last year’s models. Just keep in mind—selection might be more limited, so don’t wait too long.
3. Robot Lawn Mowers
Robot mowers are a different beast. Because they’re relatively new to the market and often seen as luxury items, their pricing doesn’t follow traditional retail patterns. That said, you’ll usually find the best deals during online mega-events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, or Cyber Monday. Some manufacturers also run direct promotions on their websites when launching new models in spring.
Looking at high-end options like the Mammotion LUBA 2 AWD robot lawn mower? Plan ahead. These mowers rarely get deep discounts, so it pays to monitor pre-order campaigns, limited-time bundles, or exclusive early-access sales. Timing and patience here can save you hundreds.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead, Save Big
When it comes to buying a lawn mower, the smartest strategy isn’t just buying early—it’s buying wisely. Knowing the best time of year to buy a lawn mower allows you to avoid peak season markups, compare models carefully, and take advantage of the best deals during end-of-season clearances or major sale events.
Instead of rushing into a purchase in spring when demand is highest and discounts are rare, consider waiting for late summer or fall promotions. Likewise, don’t overlook online sales like Prime Day or Black Friday, where even high-end robotic models like the Mammotion LUBA 2 AWD may see limited-time discounts.
Being flexible with timing and knowing what type of mower you need can lead to significant savings. In the end, a bit of patience and research pays off—helping you get a mower that fits your lawn, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time of year to buy a lawn mower?
The best time to buy a lawn mower is typically in early fall (September–October), when retailers clear out inventory to make room for next year's models. You'll find the deepest discounts during this time.
2. Are there good lawn mower deals in spring?
Yes, late spring (May to early June) can bring decent discounts during holiday sales like Memorial Day or Father's Day. However, prices tend to be higher than in the fall due to peak seasonal demand.
3. When should I avoid buying a lawn mower?
Avoid early spring (March–April) when demand is high and new models are released at full price. You're less likely to find significant savings during this period.
4. Are online deals better than in-store promotions?
Online platforms like Amazon often offer major discounts during events like Prime Day or Black Friday. That said, in-store deals can sometimes be more negotiable, especially on floor models or open-box returns.
5. Can I get a good deal on a high-end robot mower?
Yes, but timing is crucial. Premium models like the Mammotion LUBA 2 AWD often go on sale during tech-driven events or seasonal clearances—planning ahead makes a big difference.
6. Is it safe to buy a used or refurbished mower?
It can be a great way to save money, but be sure to check the mower's condition, ask for service history, and buy from a reputable source. Look for warranty options if possible.
7. Do different mower types go on sale at different times?
Yes. Push mowers see the most aggressive discounts in fall. Riding mowers may be cheaper late summer. Robot mowers often follow tech product sales cycles and brand promotions.
8. How far in advance should I plan my lawn mower purchase?
Ideally, plan at least one season ahead. This gives you time to research, compare prices, track promotions, and align your purchase with the best time of year for savings.
