Landscaping project costs can vary widely. This guide is here to help you make sense of it all. We break down the average prices for common services, from basic lawn mowing to building a brand new patio. Use this information to budget for your project and hire the right professional for the job.
Routine Maintenance & Lawn Care
Lawn Mowing
Estimate Your Mowing Cost
Estimated Cost Per Visit:
~$75
This average cost is for a standard suburban lawn. The price increases for larger properties or complex terrain. Many companies offer monthly contracts for a lower per-visit rate.
Lawn Aeration
This is a highly recommended annual service to improve lawn health. The cost is primarily determined by the size of your yard.
Fertilization
Cost is per application. Most lawn care programs include multiple applications per year for best results.
Weed Control
Price is per application and depends on the level of weed infestation and whether the treatment is preventative or reactive.
Mulching
Estimate Your Mulching Cost
Estimated Cost:
~$300
The final cost is highly dependent on the total volume of mulch needed and the type you choose (e.g., wood chips, stone).
Yard Cleanup
A heavy fall cleanup with a large volume of leaves can cost more than a simple spring tidy-up. Hauling away debris is often included.
Hardscaping & Outdoor Living
Concrete Pavers
Budget-friendly & versatile.
Natural Stone
Premium look with higher material and labor costs.
Paver/Stone Patio
Estimate Your Paver Patio Cost
Estimated Cost Range:
$3,000 - $6,000
The biggest factor in patio cost is your choice of material. Standard concrete pavers are budget-friendly, while premium materials like natural stone or porcelain will increase the total project cost.
Retaining Wall
The final price is determined by the wall's height, length, and the material used. Taller walls may require professional engineering, which adds to the cost.
Landscape Curbing
Provides a clean, permanent border for garden beds. Poured concrete is common, but stone or brick options are also available at different price points.
Outdoor Kitchen
This is a major construction project. The cost is driven by your choice of appliances, countertop materials, and the need to run utility lines (gas, water, electric).
Fire Pit
A simple wood-burning pit is the most affordable. Running a natural gas line for a built-in pit is a significant additional expense.
Pergola
Cost depends on the size and material. Wood is common, but low-maintenance vinyl or aluminum options are also popular.
Landscape Lighting
The price is determined by the number and quality of light fixtures and whether the system is low-voltage (professional standard) or solar.
Water Feature
This category includes everything from simple fountains to complex ponds and waterfalls. The size and complexity are the main cost drivers.
Specialty & Project Services
Tree Removal
This is a baseline cost. The final price can be much higher for very large trees (over 80 ft), or those near power lines and structures. Emergency removal after a storm also costs more.
Stump Grinding
This is an essential follow-up to tree removal and is almost always priced separately. The cost is based on the stump's diameter.
Artificial Turf (per sq. ft.)
While a significant upfront investment, artificial turf offers long-term savings on water and maintenance. The quality of the turf product is a major cost factor.
Sod Installation
The cost for an instant lawn depends on the total square footage, the type of grass, and the amount of soil preparation required.
Fence Installation
The total cost is determined by the fence's length, height, and the material you choose (e.g., wood, vinyl, aluminum).
Snow Removal
This cost is per visit or 'event'. Many companies offer seasonal contracts at a flat rate, which can be more economical for snowy climates.
DIY vs. Call a Pro: A Quick Guide
Some landscaping tasks are great for a weekend project, while others are best left to experienced professionals. Here's a quick guide to help you decide.
Lawn Aeration
DIY-Friendly: Renting a core aerator is a viable option for smaller lawns if you're comfortable with the physical labor. It's a great way to save money on this essential lawn health task.
Call a Pro: For large, sloped, or heavily compacted lawns, a professional service is more efficient and ensures proper core depth and even coverage, maximizing the benefit to your lawn.
Retaining Wall
DIY-Friendly: Small, decorative garden walls under 2 feet high that aren't holding back a significant amount of soil can be a manageable DIY project.
Call a Pro: Always hire a professional for walls over 3-4 feet tall or any wall holding back a slope. These are serious structural projects. A pro will handle the necessary engineering, drainage, and building permits to make sure the wall is safe and built to last.
Planning Ahead Saves Money: Ask About Seasonal Contracts
For recurring services like mowing, fertilization, and yard cleanups, many landscaping companies offer seasonal contracts or monthly packages. While the upfront commitment is larger, the cost per visit is often lower than booking each service individually.
Pro Tip!
Bundling services like a spring cleanup, weekly mowing through the summer, and a fall cleanup into a single annual contract can lead to significant savings and ensures your property looks great all year round.
Trend: Creating an "Outdoor Room"
A popular trend is thinking of your yard as an "outdoor room." This means creating a comfortable space for cooking, dining, and relaxing, just like you would inside your house. Because of this trend, many landscapers now do more than just lawn care.
This gives you more options when hiring. You can find companies that specialize in regular maintenance like mowing. You can also find full-service firms that act like a general contractor for your entire backyard project. They can manage everything from patios and lighting to outdoor kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
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