Water Savings Calculator
See how much water and money you could save by replacing thirsty lawn with a low-water rock or decomposed granite landscape. Enter the lawn area you would convert and your water rate.
Not sure? It is on your water bill. The default (10 per 1,000 gallons) is a rough California average. Adjust it for your own rate.
Enter your lawn length and width above, then calculate.
Estimate based on a typical lawn using about 44 gallons per square foot per year and a rock landscape using roughly 80% less, for about 35 gallons per square foot saved. Real savings vary with climate, soil, and watering habits.
Why trade lawn for rock?
- Far less water. A rock and drought-plant landscape needs only a fraction of what turf drinks through a dry California summer.
- No mowing, no fertilizer. You get weekends back and skip the gas, blades, and chemicals.
- Looks good year round. Decomposed granite, boulders, and river rock hold their look when a lawn would brown out.
- Possible rebates. Many California water districts pay turf-replacement rebates. Check your local provider before you start.
Common questions
How much water does a lawn really use?
In hot, dry parts of California a lawn commonly uses around 40 to 50 gallons per square foot per year once you account for summer irrigation and overspray. Replacing it with rock and drought-tolerant plants cuts most of that.
How accurate is this estimate?
It is a planning estimate, not a bill. Actual savings depend on your climate, how much you watered before, your soil, and the plants you keep. We use a transparent per-square-foot figure you can see above, and your own water rate, to keep it honest.
Does a rock landscape use any water at all?
A little, for the drought-tolerant plants you add. The rock itself needs none. Grouping the few thirstier plants together lets you spot-water them and leave the rest dry.
Where do I find my water rate?
Look on your water bill for the cost per unit. Many bills list price per HCF (hundred cubic feet, which is 748 gallons). Divide that by 0.748 to get the cost per 1,000 gallons, or just enter your best estimate.
Where do I start?
Plan your design with our xeriscaping guide, then use the coverage calculator to size the rock. We deliver nationwide from our two California yards, and you can order a sample first.