Finding the right gas lawn mower for your home doesn’t have to mean a significant investment. For homeowners seeking reliable power, the convenience of self-propulsion, and versatile cutting options, the sub-$500 category is filled with excellent choices that deliver professional-grade results without the premium price tag. These machines are built to handle the rigors of seasonal yard work, offering the endurance and performance that cordless electric models often can’t match.
This roundup focuses on gas mowers that provide the best value, combining powerful engines, durable steel decks, and user-friendly features. Whether your yard is flat, sloped, or uneven, there is a model here designed to make your lawn care routine more efficient and less physically demanding. We’ve compiled a list of top performers to help you find the perfect match for your property’s specific needs.
The Best Gas Lawn Mowers for Your Money
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower
- Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 20 Inch, 141 cc 4-Cycle Engine, 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled with 3-in-1 Mulching System
- SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled Gas Powered Lawnmower with 163cc B&S Engine
- PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine, 3-in-1, Self-Propelled
- AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21″ with OHV 144cc Engine, 2-in-1 Mulching and Side Discharge
- PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch 144cc Engine 2-in-1 Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower
- Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower w/Collapsible Handle
- Greenworks 16-Inch 10 Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Lawn Mower
The YARDMAX mower stands out with its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which offers superior speed control. By simply selecting one of the six speeds on the shift lever, you can perfectly match the mower’s pace to your natural walking speed, making it exceptionally easy to use on various terrains, including slopes and uneven ground.
Its aggressive, spiked rubber tires provide significant traction and maneuverability, ensuring you maintain control even in challenging conditions. The high-wheel design with 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels further enhances stability. For maintenance, a dedicated deck cleanout port allows for easy cleaning of the underside after use, helping to prevent grass buildup and corrosion.
Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower 20 Inch, 141 cc 4-Cycle Engine, 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive
This model is a strong contender for those who value precise control and a robust build. Its self-propelled system features a 6-speed transmission, allowing you to adjust your pace from 0.5 to 4 mph effortlessly. The rear-wheel drive, coupled with 11-inch wheels, provides excellent stability and is well-suited for sloped or uneven yards.
The 16-gauge stamped steel deck is built to resist rust and reduce vibration during operation, contributing to a smoother mowing experience and longer machine life. A single lever conveniently adjusts the cutting height across seven levels, letting you adapt to seasonal grass growth. The large 50-liter bagger is capable of holding a significant amount of debris, reducing the frequency of stops to empty it.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 22-Inch, Self-Propelled with 3-in-1 Mulching System
PowerSmart pairs a reliable, USA-made Briggs and Stratton 150cc engine with a self-propelled rear-wheel drive system in this model. The engine features ReadyStart technology, which is designed for easy, tool-free starting in any condition. This combination delivers dependable power and improved traction, making it a great choice for handling incline slopes.
With a 22-inch cutting deck, this mower covers a wide path to help you finish your lawn care tasks more quickly. It offers the flexibility of a 3-in-1 system, allowing you to choose between mulching, rear-discharging, or bagging based on your preference. The 1.4-bushel capacity grass bag is easy to detach and empty, adding to the overall user-friendly design.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled Gas Powered Lawnmower with 163cc B&S Engine
The SENIX mower is equipped with a powerful and dependable Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine, which uses a Prime n Pull start system for reliable operation. As a rear-wheel-drive, single-speed self-propelled mower, it provides consistent power that requires minimal effort from the user, allowing you to focus on steering.
Its versatile 3-in-1 cutting system gives you the option to mulch, side-discharge, or use the included 19-gallon bagger. The 22-inch steel deck is efficient for covering small to medium-sized yards quickly. For storage, the handle is foldable, and the mower can be stored vertically, making it an ideal solution for those with limited garage or shed space.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Lawn Mower with B&S Engine, 3-in-1, Self-Propelled
This PowerSmart model is powered by a robust 140cc Briggs and Stratton engine, known for its smooth start-up and long-term durability. This engine is well-suited for tougher mowing conditions, providing consistent performance that you can count on season after season. The self-propelled mechanism further reduces the physical effort required.
The 21-inch robust steel deck offers a solid balance between maneuverability and cutting width, making it effective for medium to large yards. You can easily switch between the three functions—bagging, mulching, or rear-discharge—to suit your lawn care goals. Collect clippings in the 1.4-bushel bag, mulch to nourish your grass, or discharge for a fast clean-up.
AMERISUN 21″ Gas Lawn Mower, 3-in-1 Gas Push Mowers, 144cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine
The AMERISUN mower is built around a 144cc OHV 4-stroke engine that delivers steady and reliable power. It features an auto-choke ignition system, which significantly simplifies the starting process. The air-cooling system helps ensure the engine maintains a safe operating temperature during extended use, contributing to its durability.
Its reinforced 21-inch steel cutting deck is designed to handle demanding mowing tasks while delivering a smooth and even cut. The mower is equipped with large wheels—7 inches in the front and 10 inches in the rear—that feature wide 1.5-inch treads and dual ball bearings. This setup provides excellent traction and smooth rolling, even on rough or uneven terrain.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21″ with OHV 144cc Engine, 2-in-1 Mulching and Side Discharge
This push mower from PowerSmart offers a great blend of power and lightweight design. Weighing just 62 pounds, it is exceptionally easy to maneuver around tight spaces and garden obstacles. It is powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton 144cc OHV engine that provides consistent cutting performance for a well-maintained lawn.
The mower features a versatile 2-in-1 design, giving you the choice between mulching to return nutrients to your soil or side-discharging for a clean and even cut. This flexibility allows you to tailor your lawn care approach to your specific needs without the complexity of a bagging system, making it a straightforward and effective tool.
PowerSmart Lawn Mower Gas Powered, 21-Inch 144cc Engine 2-in-1 Walk-Behind Push Lawn Mower
This gas-powered push mower is equipped with a high-performance 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine and an auto-choke for easy starting. It delivers reliable power and efficiency for maintaining a neat lawn. The simple push design is ideal for users who prefer a more hands-on approach or have relatively flat yards.
It offers 2-in-1 functionality with bagging and mulching capabilities. The easy-to-empty rear bag collects grass clippings and leaves for simple clean-up or composting, while the mulching option helps feed your lawn. The 21-inch durable steel deck, combined with a heavy-duty blade, ensures a quality cut and allows you to cover more ground in less time.
Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch 12-Amp Electric Lawn Mower w/Collapsible Handle
For those with smaller lawns or who prefer an electric option, the Sun Joe MJ401E offers a compact and user-friendly solution. Its 13-amp motor provides ample power to cut a 14-inch wide path quietly and without emissions. The collapsible handle is a standout feature, making storage in a garage or shed incredibly convenient.
The mower includes a 10.6-gallon bag for collecting clippings and features a durable 14-inch steel blade for precise cutting. With a 3-position height adjustment control, you can easily tailor the cutting height to your lawn’s needs. This model is a practical and low-maintenance choice for smaller, more manageable yards.
Greenworks 16-Inch 10 Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower
The Greenworks 16-Inch Corded Electric Mower is designed for simplicity and ease of use. With a 10-amp motor, it provides consistent power for a clean cut across a 16-inch swath. The corded design means you never have to worry about battery life or run time, making it suitable for continuous use on smaller properties.
This mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver, offering a straightforward, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered models. It is an excellent option for those with a limited amount of lawn to maintain who want to avoid the maintenance associated with gas engines, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Gas Lawn Mower Under $500
When I started looking for a new gas mower for my own yard, I quickly realized that the sub-$500 category is packed with options. It can feel a bit overwhelming, but focusing on a few key features made my decision much easier. The first thing I consider is the cutting width. A wider deck means you can cover more ground with each pass, which is a huge time-saver if you have a larger lawn. For small, intricate yards, a narrower deck offers better maneuverability around trees and garden beds.
Next, I always check the engine power. You will see this measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For most home lawns, an engine between 140cc and 190cc is plenty powerful. A more robust engine helps you handle thicker grass and slight inclines without stalling. I also pay close attention to the mower’s construction. A steel deck is incredibly durable and can handle accidental bumps against roots or rocks, but it’s heavier. A plastic deck is lighter, resists rust, and is usually cheaper, which is a great trade-off for many homeowners.
The type of drive system is another big decision point. A push mower requires you to provide all the muscle, which is fine for smaller, flat lawns. A self-propelled mower does the work of moving forward for you; you just guide it. This is a game-changer for larger properties or yards with hills. I find that the front-wheel drive models are best for flat terrain, while rear-wheel drive offers better traction on slopes.
Finally, I look at the grass handling features. A side-discharge chute is simple and works well if you mow frequently, but it leaves clippings on the lawn. Mulching kits chop the clippings finely and deposit them back onto the turf as natural fertilizer. A bagging option is neat and tidy, perfect for when the grass is overgrown or if you want a clean look. Many mowers in this price range offer all three capabilities in one machine, which gives you the most flexibility. Thinking about these factors—deck size, engine power, drive system, and grass handling—will help you find the perfect machine for your needs from the list of the 10 best gas lawn mowers under $500 for home use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of a gas mower over an electric one?
The main advantage I have found is power and runtime. Gas mowers typically have more torque, which is useful for cutting thick, wet grass or dealing with overgrown areas. They also aren’t limited by a battery life or a power cord, so you can mow for as long as you have fuel. This makes them ideal for larger lawns where an electric mower might run out of juice before you finish.
How often do I need to perform maintenance on a gas lawn mower?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your mower running well for years. After every use, I make a habit of cleaning off any stuck grass clippings from the underside of the deck. The most important routine task is changing the oil and air filter once a season, or after about 25-50 hours of use. You should also check the spark plug annually and replace it if it’s worn. Finally, either use a fuel stabilizer if you are storing the mower for the winter, or run the engine until the fuel tank is completely empty.
Are gas mowers under $500 powerful enough for a hilly yard?
They can be, but you need to choose carefully. For a hilly yard, I would strongly recommend a self-propelled model with rear-wheel drive, as it provides better traction and control when going up and down slopes. Look for a mower with an engine on the higher end of the spectrum (closer to 190cc) to ensure it has the power to handle the extra load without straining. A standard push mower on a hill can be very tiring and potentially unsafe.
Can I find a good mulching mower in this price range?
Absolutely. Many of the best gas lawn mowers under $500 for home use come with a versatile 3-in-1 system that allows you to side-discharge, bag, or mulch. The mulching function works by using a special blade and a sealed deck to keep the grass clippings circulating until they are cut into tiny pieces. These fine clippings then fall back onto the lawn, where they decompose and return valuable nutrients to the soil. It is a fantastic way to feed your lawn for free.
Is it difficult to start a gas mower?
Modern gas mowers have made this much easier. While some very basic models still use a traditional recoil pull-start, many in this budget now feature easy-start or primer-assisted systems. These systems involve pushing a primer bulb a few times to draw fuel into the carburetor, which makes the engine start much more reliably, often on the first or second pull. Taking the time to read the starting procedure in the manual makes a big difference.
What should I do with the old gas at the end of the mowing season?
This is an important question. I never leave untreated gas in the mower’s tank over the winter, as it will degrade and form a gummy residue that can clog the carburetor. The best practice is to either add a fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it, or simply run the engine until the tank is completely empty. Any leftover fuel should be disposed of at a local hazardous waste facility, not poured down a drain or on the ground.