Landscaping can greatly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of any outdoor space. However, before undertaking a landscaping project, it is crucial to understand the potential costs involved. Landscaping expenses can vary widely depending on the size and scope of the work, materials used, special features included, and numerous other factors. Having a realistic sense of the likely costs allows homeowners and businesses to budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses down the line.
This article provides a detailed examination of the elements that influence landscaping costs. We will explore average prices for basic services, look at cost differences between small and large projects, examine regional variances, break down prices for specific features, and offer tips on creating an accurate landscaping budget. Whether planning for routine lawn maintenance or a full-scale landscape redesign, this guide will help you determine potential costs and make informed financial decisions.
Introduction
Landscaping projects can range from simple cleanups and plantings to major hardscaping and irrigation system installations. Prices are influenced by the size of the area being worked on, the specific services and materials involved, the amount of labor required, and numerous other variables. Before starting any outdoor project, it is wise to educate yourself on the likely costs so there are no major surprises.
Understanding the expenses associated with landscaping is key for several reasons:
- It allows you to determine if a project fits within your budget constraints or if changes need to be made to the scale or scope of work.
- Knowing average costs for materials and services assists in identifying reasonable bids and avoiding contractors who charge exorbitant prices.
- Realistic cost expectations prevent sticker shock down the road when invoices come due for the work performed.
- Accurate estimates enable creating a reliable landscaping budget with contingencies for any unforeseen expenses.
The following sections will break down the average costs of basic landscaping services and the specific factors that influence pricing, providing the information needed to make informed financial decisions.
Average Landscaping Costs
Landscaping services span a wide spectrum of possibilities, so costs vary greatly. However, looking at average prices for basic services can provide a starting point for figuring expected costs.
Online searches for national pricing averages reveal the following general cost ranges:
- Basic lawn mowing and maintenance: $30 – $80 per visit
- Garden bed edging and mulching: $4 – $12 per linear foot
- Shrub and tree trimming: $50 – $150 per visit
- Fertilizer application: $0.03 – $0.15 per sq ft
- Aeration and overseeding: $0.12 – $0.25 per sq ft
- Irrigation system repair: $45 – $150 per hour
- Landscape design fees: 10-15% of total project cost
The size of your property is a major factor in the overall cost. Typically, prices are based on the square footage being worked on or an hourly rate for labor. For example, basic mowing and trimming may cost $30 for a small city lot but $80 for an acre-sized suburban yard.
In general, expect pricing near the higher end of these ranges for specialty services or significant yard sizes. The complexity of the landscape design also pushes costs upward. Simple projects like mulching a few flower beds will be at the lower pricing spectrum.
Cost Factors
When estimating the potential expenses of a landscaping project, the following elements play key roles:
Labor
The cost of labor directly correlates to the scale of the project and time required to complete the work. Complex projects demand more hours from skilled professionals at premium hourly wages. Simple mowing and prunings require less time from less specialized workers. Any project requiring extensive excavation, demolition, or installation of structures will also drive up labor costs significantly.
Materials
The specific trees, plants, hardscaping, furnishings, and other physical materials incorporated also affect the bottom line. Exotic specimen trees, high-end irrigation components, and imported paving materials all equate to higher costs than basic sod, native shrubs, and plastic hoses. Look closely at the specific materials used rather than assuming the generic term of “plants and materials” covers only moderate costs.
Regional Location
Like real estate values, landscaping costs also depend heavily on location. Projects require higher labor and material pricing in areas with higher costs of living. Urban regions also command higher prices than rural areas given the increased demand and limited work spaces. Expect inflated costs in landscape labor and materials for projects in places like Southern California versus the Midwest.
Design Elements
The inclusion of certain features as part of the landscape design adds cost as well. Pools, water features, retaining walls, lighting, patios, and outdoor kitchens all involve significant expenses for planning, permits, materials, and installation. Even small elements like benches, walkways, or accent rocks add up quickly. The landscape design directly influences how simple or complex the scope of work will be.
Size of Yard
The physical square footage and acreage of the property also drive pricing. Labor and material quantities cost more for expansive properties. The difficulty of navigating and working on steep slopes or densely wooded lots also increases effort and expenses. Carefully measure your project area for the most accurate understanding of sizing-based costs.
Scope of Work
The exact services and tasks involved determine the project effort and durations. Weekly mowing is far simpler than a complete re-landscaping. Determine all the specific services necessary like cleanup, demolition, grading, planting, hardscaping, irrigation, lighting, etc. The scope expands with more complex, multi-phase projects.
By understanding these key factors, you can more realistically assess the costs for any planned landscaping project. Now let’s look at pricing for some specific common scenarios.
New Construction Landscaping Costs
For new home construction, building a fully new landscape essentially from scratch involves the highest costs. Elements may include:
- Landscape design fees: 10-15% of total project cost
- Grading: $45 – $55 per hour
- Topsoil delivery and spreading: $35 – $50 per cubic yard
- Seeding or laying sod: $0.20 – $0.35 per sq ft
- Plantings – trees, shrubs, flowers: $200 – $2,500 per 100 sq ft
- Mulch: $35 – $50 per cubic yard
- Irrigation system: $1,500 – $2,500 per 1,000 sq ft
- Landscape lighting: $2,000 – $4,000 per 1,000 sq ft
For a typical new single-family suburban home with a 15,000 sq ft yard, total costs for a professional landscape installation could range from $15,000 on the very low end up to $50,000 or more for high-end designs with additional features.
Securing professional landscape design services is highly recommended for major new construction projects to maximize visual appeal and functionality. The cost is well worth it to establish a beautiful and usable outdoor environment.
Small vs Large Landscaping Projects
The scale of the landscaping project has a direct impact on the pricing. We can compare basic costs for small routine tasks versus extensive property overhauls.
Small Landscaping Jobs
- Aerating and overseeding lawn (~5,000 sq ft): $600 – $1,250
- Pruning shrubs and trees: $300 – $800
- Mulching garden beds (~200 linear ft): $800 – $2,400
- Planting annual flowers (~100 plants): $300 – $600
These represent minimal maintenance needs for an existing landscape. Total costs typically range from $1,000 – $3,000.
Major Landscaping Projects
- Full re-design with demolition and new build: $15,000 – $65,000
- Large deck or patio addition: $6,000 – $30,000
- Pool or fountain water feature install: $25,000 – $60,000
- Retaining wall or fence: $5,000 – $20,000
Big projects like these often exceed $30,000 – $80,000 altogether between design, labor, and materials. And costs will only grow from there depending on special features and premium products.
As this comparison shows, homeowners can expect to spend 10 to 20 times more for significant landscaping overhauls versus minor upkeep and planting. Carefully consider the extent of the intended scope when estimating costs.
Regional Variances
Where the landscaping project is located geographically will influence pricing as well. Here are some specific considerations for different parts of the country:
Northeast – Higher material and labor costs given dense urban areas and cold winters. Allow for budget overages from potential weather delays.
South – Hot and humid climates limit optimal seasons and increase plant replacements. Plan for added irrigation expenses.
Midwest – Lower pay rates make labor more affordable, but extreme seasons bring maintenance challenges.
Southwest – Arid climates necessitate drought-tolerant plants and increased attention to irrigation.
Northwest – Extended rainy seasons mean allowing scheduling delays and drainage accommodation costs.
California – Labor and materials are most expensive here, especially in urban coastal areas which command premium prices.
Evaluate typical costs for your specific metro area rather than national averages. HomeAdvisor’s TrueCost tool allows searching by zip code for localized pricing.
Cost Breakdown for Services
Landscaping budgets consist of much more than just the base cost of sod or bushes. Multiple services contribute to the overall expenses. Typical costs for specific landscaping components include:
Base Installation
- Sod Installation – $0.20 – $0.40 per sq ft
- Hydroseeding – $0.15 – $0.35 per sq ft
- Planting Flowers – $1 – $5 per plant
- Planting Shrubs – $25 – $100 each
- Planting Trees – $200 – $600 each
- Mulching – $2 – $6 per bag
Hardscaping
- Stone Patios – $5 – $20 per sq ft
- Concrete Flatwork – $5 – $15 per sq ft
- Retaining Walls – $25 – $100 per linear foot
- Fences – $10 – $30 per linear foot
- Decks – $15 – $50 per sq ft
Irrigation
- Irrigation System – $1,500 – $4,500 per 1,000 sq ft
- Drainage Solutions – $2,000 – $10,000
Maintenance
- Lawn Fertilization – $0.03 – $0.15 per sq ft
- Pruning – $50 – $500 per visit
- Leaf Cleanup – $100 – $300 per visit
- Lawn Mowing – $30 – $100 per visit
Lighting
- Landscape Lighting – $300 – $2,000 per fixture
- Deck & Patio Lighting – $100 – $300 per fixture
Water Features
- Pondless Waterfall – $4,000 – $15,000
- Splash Pad – $1,000 – $5,000
- Swimming Pool – $25,000 – $60,000
Consider every aspect of the intended project and add estimated costs for each service or material to build a complete budget.
Landscape Design and Architecture
Hiring a professional landscape designer or architect brings immense value for significant projects through enhancing aesthetics, function, and cost efficiency. Design fees typically range from 10-15% of total project costs.
With the landscape architect’s holistic vision, all elements integrate seamlessly for maximum visual appeal and practicality. Their expertise identifies potential issues and solutions, provides bidding assistance, creates accurate plans, and ensures efficient project execution. They help select materials that reduce costs while optimizing hardiness and aesthetics.
For major renovations, landscape architecture services can yield savings of 20-30% versus unplanned projects by identifying ways to improve efficiency. Designers prevent costly changes and delays by thoroughly planning in advance. For new construction, excellent landscaping draws buyers and boosts property value significantly above the design costs.
Scope of Work and Project Size
The specifics of the property and project scope also influence pricing significantly. Assessing these key parameters will enable far more accurate cost estimates.
Property Parameters
- Total square footage or acreage
- Topography and grading needs
- Existing vegetation and features
- Soil quality and drainage
- Exposure and sunlight levels
Project Scope
- Softscaping – lawns, planting beds, gardens, etc.
- Hardscaping – patios, walls, fences, structures, etc.
- Improvements – drainage, irrigation, lighting, utilities, etc.
- Maintenance services – mowing, pruning, watering, etc.
A half-acre lot requiring only a basic lawn and flower beds will run far less than renovating multiple acres with retaining walls, decking, and water features. Identify every specific feature the project entails and estimate accordingly.
For example, a 10,000 sq ft residential re-landscaping including full lawn installation, planting beds, trees, a fire pit, stone garden walls, and composite decking may cost $25,000 to $40,000+. Understanding the details is critical.
Specialized Features and Plants
Beyond the lawn and basic shrubbery, specific special elements add further costs depending on the goals and tastes of homeowners. Some examples include:
Water features – Installing ponds, fountains, pools, and waterfalls involves excavating, waterproofing, pumps, and extensive maintenance.
Ornamental structures – Pergolas, trellises, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and retaining walls require foundation preparation, masonry work, carpentry, and significant materials.
Specialty gardens – Scented, nighttime, or edible gardens require specially selected plants and customized conditions.
Premium materials – Using imported stone, designer pavers, or high-end decking drives up hardscaping costs quickly.
Native varieties – Sourcing local plants and organic materials appeals to some homeowners but limits selections and increases sourcing costs.
Mature plantings – Established trees cost far more than nursery saplings but provide immediate appearance and shade.
Any elements beyond the basics of grass, shrubs, and mulch will expand the budget required. Weigh the value of specialized features versus costs carefully.
Budgeting for a Landscaping Project
After reviewing typical costs and influencing factors, follow this process to build an accurate budget:
- Evaluate your property size and existing landscaping.
- Determine the scope and specifics of the intended project.
- Research the average costs for each required service or material.
- Get multiple bids from contractors to compare pricing.
- Calculate the totals for every item in the project.
- Add 10-15% as contingency for incidentals and overages.
- Review the overall budget and identify any potential cost-saving changes if desired.
- Submit bids for financing if needed.
- Finalize project plans once budget is confirmed realistic.
Be sure to obtain all costs used in calculations directly from reputable local vendors to account for accurate local rates. Don’t rely on national estimates. A detailed cost breakdown also allows adjusting elements to meet budget limits if necessary, before finalizing plans.
Ongoing communication with the landscape team throughout the process enables staying on track per the established budget. Avoid major mid-project changes.
Conclusion
Landscaping costs are influenced by numerous factors, ranging widely based on project size, materials, features, and location. Small garden cleanups may only cost a few hundred dollars, while a full renovation of multiple acres could surpass $100,000.
Careful planning and research is key to developing realistic budgets before starting work. Homeowners must understand potential expenses, secure multiple bids, and determine costs for every necessary service and material. This enables properly estimating a total budget with contingencies.
While landscaping does represent an investment, a thoughtful design and quality installation will enhance aesthetics, enjoyment, and property value for years to come. By following the guidance in this article, you can ensure your project stays on budget so you fully reap the benefits of an attractive landscape. Use these tips to confidently plan and execute your ideal outdoor environment within your financial capabilities.
