The initial step in planning a beautiful and functional outdoor space is knowing the landscaping cost. If you want to freshen up your garden or fully redesign it, knowing costs ahead of time allows you to set a reasonable budget and choose landscaping contractors. The cost for landscaper services presents a wide range of costs based on the size of the property, the complexity of the design, the materials used, and ongoing upkeep. Some homeowners may require only some basic yard care, whereas others may be purchasing patio, walkways, or full landscape architecture. Many folks may not realize that landscaping contractors offer more than just basic knowledge and creativity; they offer value in the long run when taken care of. This publication breaks down average landscaping prices, what goes into the final pricing, and how to maximize your investment. By the time you finish reading this, you should know a rough idea of what landscaping services might cost and how to plan your project wisely.
How Landscapers Charge for Their Work
Hiring a landscaper can change an outdoor space, but knowing the average cost of landscaping is helpful for home owners who are planning and designing their project. The landscaping prices will vary depending on the size of the project, the types of landscaping you need, and the level of expertise. Some landscapers charge an hourly rate, while others provide pricing that is flat and based on the project. In a lot of cases, the cost for a landscaping expert is also determined by the materials required, whether or not the design is complicated, or if on-going maintenance is anticipated. For example, a simple cleanup of a small garden area will be much less expensive than a complete landscape package that includes pathways, lighting, irrigation systems, etc. Knowing theses variables helps make sure you are getting appropriate value for the work and won’t have any surprises related to their costs in your budget.
Hourly Rates
Numerous landscapers work on an hourly basis, which usually consists of labor and small jobs including trimming, planting, or light cleanup.
Project-Based Pricing
Larger tasks, such as full landscaping designs or backyard renovations, are generally priced by the project depending on scope.
Maintenance Costs
Regular landscaping services, like lawn care or seasonal clean-up, are billed monthly or annually or per service
Material & Design Fees
Costs can rise when premium plants, decorative stones, or custom features are included.
Cost of Landscaping, by Type
Basic Lawn Care & Maintenance
The basic lawn care and maintenance usually costs $50 – $200+ per visit, depending on whether it is mowing, edging, trimming, or seasonal cleanup. Most homeowners schedule this service weekly or bi-weekly to ensure that their lawns stay healthy and lush in appearance. The great thing about routine lawn care is that as landscaping services are provided on a regular basis, it will build a foundation for reducing potential repair work in the future, such as reseeding or replacing turf. In the long run, routine lawn care and maintenance can save a homeowner money on landscaping costs.
Garden Beds & Planting
The cost for adding flower beds, shrubs or trees often ranges from $500 – $3,000, depending on how much soil preparation is needed, what type of plants are chosen and how the plants are designed. A landscape professional may recommend native plants so that the homeowner can reduce water use and long-term maintenance. Adding flower beds, shrubs and trees are undoubtedly going to give a great presentation in immediate emotional landscape value but over time, a landscape professional can easily build long-lasting value with the right design. Homeowners need to find the true value of hiring a professional to do various installations for homes and neighborhoods.
Hardscaping (Patios, Walkways, Stonework)
Hardscaping is often at one of the highest price points, especially for patios and walkways, about $2,000 – $15,000+. Again, the cost of the installation will vary depending on the types and choices of materials to be used. Concrete or pavers usually run the lowest, while natural stone will add the most to landscaping costs (premium look). In addition to value adding, hardscaping also adds usability to outdoor spaces, with many hardscape features adding to immediate property value.
Irrigation Systems
Installing an irrigation or sprinkler system typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on the size of the lawn and the features that save water. High-efficiency drip systems work well for smaller gardens, while traditional-style sprinklers work well for bigger yards. It is an initial investment, but it reduces water bill costs and protects the investment you make into your landscaping.
Full Landscape Design & Installation
Many people consider a complete redesign including lighting, decking, water features, and custom plants can range anywhere from around $10,000 – $50,000+. This option consists of significant planning and collaborating with a professional landscaper to ensure that everything is exactly the way you envision it. Though a larger budget is needed, the final product is so unique and can completely overhaul the outdoor experience, and will be enjoyed for many years.
Cost Breakdown of Common Landscaping Projects
To give you a clearer idea, let’s look at different types of landscaping services and their associated costs:
| Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
| Basic Lawn Care (per hour) | $50 – $100 per hour |
| Landscaping Around House Foundation | $1,000 – $5,000 depending on size and design |
| Small Yard Landscaping Cost | $2,000 – $5,000 for basic design |
| Backyard Renovation Cost | $2,500 – $20,000 or more for complex designs |
| Front Yard Landscaping Prices | $2,500 – $10,000 depending on complexity |
| Landscape Design (per square foot) | $5 – $15 per sq ft |
| Landscape Design Cost | $1,500 – $5,000 for professional design plans |
| Flower Bed Installation | $500 – $2,500 depending on size and plant selection |
| Landscape Maintenance (per hour) | $50 – $100 per hour |
| Cost to Install Patio or Pathway | $10 – $50 per square foot depending on materials |
| Tree or Shrub Planting | $50 – $1,500 depending on type and size of plant |
As you can see, the average cost for landscaping varies widely depending on the scope of work.
The Role of Labour Costs in Landscaping Expenses
When you think about the budget for a landscaping project, the most significant portion of the overall budget will be spent on labour costs. Landscaping contractors offer their expertise and also put hours into designing, installing, and maintaining a project. The cost for landscapers will depend on the size of the job, how the material is being handled, and whether the plants and hardscaping are custom designed or not. By understanding costs, a homeowner can make informed decisions, weigh quality against costs, and expect charges for their work.
Key factors influencing labour costs include:
- Project complexity – The level of project complexity – complicated or large designs can require additional hours on projects
- Experience of landscaping contractors – skilled contractors may charge more but produce higher quality landscapes that last longer
- Location and materials – regional labour rates and handling of heavy materials impact the final cost for a landscaper.
Conclusion
Prices are determined by yard size, materials, and design decisions, but working with professional landscaping contractors makes every project more manageable and you’re likely to get longevity from your “value” to your property. Even though the price for landscaper services can seem like a big decision, it’s important to understand whether this cost is worth it, considering multiple facets of value—improved curb appeal, increased function, durability, and a low-maintenance outdoor environment. A purposeful conclusion should summarize and present facts, not only with numbers, but also the quality, expertise, and reliability a homeowner should anticipate. Presenting unique insight and functional support, will arm each reader with knowledge they can apply, and allow them to make all important trust for their landscaping decisions.
FAQs About Landscaping Costs
- How much does landscaping cost on average?
Landscaping cost can vary considerably, from a few hundred dollars for small changes to several thousand to completely overhaul your entire outdoor space. The total cost will depend on the size of the yard, the complexity of the design, and the materials selected. - Why should I hire professional landscaping contractors?
Experienced landscaping contractors bring design knowledge, proper tools, and reliable project management. They ensure your investment creates lasting beauty and functionality. - What factors affect the cost for landscaper services?
Factors that can impact service costs include the type of plants, the types of irrigation systems, hardscaping costs, and amount of labor needed. Customized design and/or premium materials will increase overall cost. - Is landscaping worth the cost?
Absolutely. A quality landscape will improve curb appeal, increase the property value of your home, and increase your overall enjoyment of the outdoors.
