If you’re dreaming of installing a lush yard oasis outside your window, you’re probably also wondering how much a property transformation like that will cost. The good news is that landscaping costs for an outdoor living space remodel can vary! But don’t fear—this guide will demystify the numbers and provide detailed estimates, budget tips, and everything else you need to know to make your backyard (or front yard!) visions a reality.
Average Landscaping Cost
If you’re wondering how much landscaping costs, you’re not alone. But the cost can vary substantially depending on a number of factors. According to Forbes, however, landscaping can cost anywhere between $2,400-$19,000. The national average hovers in the $8,000 range.
Before you don your own gardening gloves and dive into the dirt, however, realize that this is just a ballpark estimate. The true cost depends on the size of your yard, your desired features, local rates, which Taskers you hire, and other expenses that might be necessary to achieve your desired look.
Generally, you can expect the average cost of landscaping installation to be roughly 10% of the cost of your home. But once the landscaping is complete, all you need to think about is routine maintenance, which will come at somewhere between $50-$100 per hour.
Landscaping Costs
There are multiple ways to think through backyard landscaping costs, including:
Landscaping Cost Per Square Foot
The more square footage your yard has, the more landscaping you’ll need to budget for. While some yards will have wide areas of grass that won’t require new sod installation, many landscaping jobs will require work across the entire yard.
But how much does landscaping cost per square foot? Generally, you can expect a price range from $4-17 per square foot, depending on the project’s complexity. This can give you a rough estimate for basic landscaping like laying sod and planting trees or shrubs. Just note that building brick walls, steps, and new gardens may come at a higher cost.
Landscaping Cost Per Hour
If you’re looking for help with specific tasks like trimming hedges or building a patio, expect to pay an hourly rate somewhere between $30-80/hour. The more complicated your project is, the higher the hourly rate will likely be. For example, it’s much easier to trim a shrub than to build a patio with steps and a water feature, so plan accordingly.
Landscaping Cost Per Project Type
As you might have guessed based on the information above, landscaping labor rates per hour can vary based on the type of project you’re doing. Below, you can find the average costs for three of the most common types of landscaping jobs.
Softscaping
Softscaping refers to the planting, management, or removal of live horticulture elements of a yard, including flower beds, bushes, trees, shrubs, and mulch. Services can include weed and nuisance management, grading, planting, mowing, trimming, aerating, digging, and spraying. This is typically the most affordable type of landscaping, with average prices around $4-6 per square foot.
Hardscaping
Hardscaping is exactly what it sounds like: the creation of concrete walls, surfaces, or walkways within a yard. It also refers to any type of movement or placement of large or small rocks as part of the overall design. Because of the labor and complexity involved with hardscaping permanent high-end structures like patios, water fountains, retaining walls, or pergolas, you can expect to pay more for work of this sort. Hardscaping costs typically fall somewhere between $10-15 per square foot.
Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is a great long-term option for landscaping, depending on the climate you live in. It refers to a combination of softscaping and hardscaping, done in a style that requires very little irrigation (think succulents planted amid rocks, dirt, or wood chips). Because plants that don’t require an irrigation system stay fairly contained and grow slowly, it can be a fantastic option if you want a low-maintenance yard. Xeriscaping can cost between $5-20 per square foot, depending on what plants and materials you buy and whether you want to install plants yourself.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Landscaping
Now that you understand the basics of cost, let’s explore the variables that can make your project more (or less!) expensive.
Project Size
The literal size of your project matters when it comes to landscape design cost! Generally, the larger your yard is, the bigger your price tag for landscaping will be. If you’re concerned about budget, consider prioritizing key areas of your yard that need the most attention. If you plan your project correctly, you can budget to continue with more landscaping projects at a later date.
Design
If you have an elaborate plan with intricate features, you can expect the cost to be higher. Do your research ahead of time on labor and materials costs, and be specific about your desired aesthetic so that the landscape design cost can be kept to a minimum. Also, don’t forget about the power of outdoor landscape lighting—this can improve your design substantially but also contribute to higher costs.
Materials
High-quality plants, stones, and hardscaping materials will add to your cost. Sometimes, you can explore budget-friendly options, but there may be times when your specific vision requires you to splurge. Weigh the pros and cons, and choose wisely based on what you can afford and how you want the project to turn out!
Labor
Rates for backyard landscaping can vary based on who is doing the work and what city you live in. The good news is that Taskrabbit has a wide range of Taskers available for this type of job, so you’ll likely be able to find help that fits your budget. As always, the average landscaping cost can vary based on who you choose to work with.
State of Your Yard
If you’re one of those homeowners whose yard is in shambles, you’re going to need to either clean it up yourself in preparation for landscaping or pay for cleanup as part of your project. Removing old structures and dealing with uneven terrain that you want to level out can inflate the cost, so make sure to think around corners of this home improvement project when you’re in the initial planning phases.
Landscape Maintenance Costs
Landscape design cost is just one thing to consider when it comes to your yard. Once you’ve finished your professional landscaping project, don’t forget about upkeep! Regular lawn care maintenance like mowing, pruning, fertilization, and weed control is essential for keeping your beautiful landscape thriving. Here’s a quick look at average maintenance costs:
- Lawn mowing: $50-250 per service
- Tree trimming: $300-700 per service
- Yard cleaning: $150-400 per service
- Lawn alteration: $50-300 per service
Monthly water costs can vary based on where you live and what the climate is, so expect larger yards in dry climates to cost more than small yards in wet climates. Check your sprinkler system regularly to make sure you don’t have any leaks into the ground, as this can make water bills skyrocket.
DIY vs Hiring Help
If you’re feeling handy, a DIY landscaping project can save you quite a bit of money. Even so, you’ll want to factor in the time, effort, and potential learning curve it will require. To estimate the cost range of the DIY option, add up the overall cost of any materials you’ll need to purchase and the cost of your time. For complex projects that require structural hardscaping, however, consider hiring a Tasker for their expertise and efficiently. It can save you money in the long run!
How Much Does Landscaping Cost FAQs
Still have questions? Check out the answers to common ones below:
How can I save money with landscaping?
When planning your project, choose native plants, use recycled materials, and prioritize key areas instead of tackling everything at once. You can also shop for cost-effective help—Taskers have varying rates for this type of service, and you may be able to save substantially.
Does landscaping increase the home value?
Absolutely. Well-maintained landscaping can boost your home’s value by 15-20% on average. When considering the average landscaping cost, realize that the increase in home value can offset the money you put in for the improvement.
Is landscaping worth the money?
Investing in your outdoor spaces improves your lifestyle, property value, and curb appeal. It also gives you the option of spending time in the fresh air, which is great for your health. Consider it an investment into your well-being and the future of your home!
There. You’ve asked, “How much does landscaping cost?”, and we’ve answered! With careful planning, budgeting, and the help of Taskers, your dream landscape is within reach. Don’t be afraid to explore different options, but make sure to set expectations and—most importantly—have fun creating your outdoor oasis.
