How Much Is Landscaping?

A Complete Cost Breakdown for 2025

Landscaping is the art and science of modifying outdoor spaces to enhance their appearance, usability, and value. This process goes beyond planting flowers or laying a patio. It includes living elements like trees and grass, non-living structures such as patios and walls, and even features like water fountains, lighting, and grading.

What Landscaping Really Means

Softscaping

Living elements such as lawns, trees, shrubs, and flowers.

Hardscaping

Permanent structures like patios, walkways, fences, and retaining walls.

Waterscaping

Features like ponds, fountains, and waterfalls.

Average Landscaping Costs in 2025

Homeowners in the U.S. can expect to pay between $3,300 and $13,200 for a moderate project. High-end designs can exceed $50,000.

Small Project Example

500 sq ft backyard upgrade (sod, small patio, plants): ~$5,000

Large Project Example

2,000 sq ft with grading, hardscaping, lighting, pond: $30,000+

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Feature-specific pricing

Key Cost Drivers

Project Size

Larger areas require more labor and materials

Design Complexity

Intricate plans with varied features cost more

Material Choice

Natural stone and custom fixtures are pricier

Labor Rates

$50 to $100 per hour per crew member

Softscaping Costs

Plant Types Comparison

Native Plants

Cost-effective, low maintenance

$800 - $6,000

Exotic Plants

Striking but require more care

20-40% more expensive

Drought-Resistant Options

Succulents & Cacti

$10 - $150 each

Native Grasses

$50 - $200 per sq m

Hardy Shrubs

$20 - $100 each

Hardscaping: Building Structure

Patios & Decks

  • Concrete: $4 - $12/sq ft
  • Pavers: $10 - $30/sq ft
  • Composite decking: $30 - $60/sq ft

Walls & Structures

  • Retaining walls: $40 - $300/linear ft
  • 200 sq ft paver patio with firepit: $6,000 - $10,000

Waterscaping: Enhancing Tranquility

Basic Pond

$1,800 - $6,900

Koi Pond

$3,500 - $17,000

Fountains

$1,500 - $8,000

Waterfalls

$4,000 - $10,000

Example Projects

Budget Project

$3,000 - $6,000

  • • 500 sq ft yard
  • • New sod
  • • Basic shrubs
  • • Solar lights

Mid-Range Project

$10,000 - $25,000

  • • 1,500 sq ft area
  • • Trees & landscaping
  • • Paver patio
  • • Professional lighting

Luxury Project

$50,000 - $100,000

  • • 2,500 sq ft overhaul
  • • Custom patio & firepit
  • • Koi pond
  • • Full irrigation system

Ways to Save Money

DIY simple tasks like planting and mulching
Reuse existing materials
Choose native, low-maintenance plants
Phase your project over time

Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?

Landscaping enhances beauty, usability, and value. Whether you plan a simple refresh or complete renovation, understanding costs ensures smart, cost-effective decisions.

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