Planning a landscaping project? Understanding costs upfront helps you make smart decisions and avoid budget surprises.
Average Landscaping Costs in 2026
Basic Landscaping (DIY-Friendly)
Cost range: $500 - $3,000. Includes mulch, basic plants, edging, small trees. Time to complete: 1-2 weekends.
Mid-Range Professional
Cost range: $3,000 - $15,000. Includes design plan, professional planting, hardscaping elements, irrigation. Time to complete: 1-2 weeks.
High-End Landscape Design
Cost range: $15,000 - $50,000+. Includes full landscape architecture, custom hardscaping, outdoor living spaces, lighting. Time to complete: 2-6 weeks.
Cost Breakdown by Element
Plants
Perennials: $5-25 each. Shrubs: $20-100 each. Trees: $100-500+ each. Ornamental grasses: $10-30 each.
Hardscaping
Gravel/DG paths: $3-8 per sq ft. Pavers: $10-25 per sq ft. Flagstone: $15-30 per sq ft. Concrete: $8-18 per sq ft.
Features
Drip irrigation: $500-2,500. Landscape lighting: $1,500-5,000. Fire pit: $500-3,000. Water feature: $1,000-10,000.
Money-Saving Tips
Do site prep yourself (clearing and grading can save $500+), buy plants in spring (best selection and prices), start small (phase the project over 2-3 seasons), and use native plants (less water, less maintenance, lower cost).