How much does landscaping cost?

*Costs are sourced from Thumbtack's cost and price quote data. 

Reaching out to several landscapers near you and requesting price quotes is the best way to estimate your landscaping cost. Your landscaper will consider the size and scope of your project and several other factors when creating your quote. Keep reading to learn more about these factors so that you can start preparing your budget for your next landscaping project.

In addition to the specific landscaping features you choose, there are other factors that can impact the cost of landscaping. These factors include:

• Time of year. While landscape prices are typically consistent throughout the year, you might be able to save money by hiring a company in the colder months. Just make sure you aren’t sacrificing quality because of wet or frozen soil. A good landscaping company can advise you on the right time of year to start your project in your region.
• Size of your project or property. In most cases, the bigger the property, the more you’ll spend on your landscaping. But here’s a caveat: Even if you have a smaller property, you could pay much more if you decide to install special features —such as an outdoor kitchen, outdoor misting system, in-ground pool or a fireplace — or if your project requires special machinery.
• Materials you plan to use. When choosing the materials to use for certain features, ask your landscaper how much they charge for things like granite, gravel, rocks, pebbles, slate chips and more.
• The terrain. If it’s hard to access the area where you’d like your landscape to be installed, you might face higher prices. When communicating with potential landscaping businesses, provide them with as many details about the terrain as possible so you can get an accurate estimate.
• Labor costs. Some landscaping companies consider labor rates in their prices. If your project requires more manpower (and more hours of work), your expenses will likely go up. 

It's difficult to pinpoint the cost of landscape design. To estimate prices, you’ll first need to figure out the following:

• What specific features you want to be added to your home?
• Is your project a small, large or a complete renovation?
• Does your project require regular maintenance?
• Which type of landscaping style are you envisioning?

Below, you’ll find the estimated national average landscaping costs for different features and designs. Because these are estimated rates, keep in mind that how much you spend on these specific features will likely vary depending on the type of property you have (e.g., home, office, multi-unit building, etc.), the terrain, the square footage of the area you'd like to add landscaping elements to, the materials you decide to use and several other factors.

Hiring a landscaper might be one of the best ways you, as a homeowner, can boost the value of your home. Landscaping can add a significant return on investment. It’s also an important factor in curb appeal — a term realtors use to refer to a buyer’s first impression of your property.

Whether or not you’re getting ready to sell your home, investing in professional landscaping has a lot of other benefits, too. For example:

• Lower energy bills. Planting shade trees can reduce the temperature of your home -- and lower your air conditioning expenses.
• Better artistic vision. Landscapers have the professional experience to re-envision your yard into a slice of paradise.
• No labor. Imagine loading up your car yourself and lugging all those decorative stones into your backyard. That doesn’t sound like fun, right? When you hire professionals, you save yourself a lot of effort.
• Less maintenance down the road. Professional landscapers can create a landscape design that will stand up on its own with very little upkeep needed from you.
• Designs customized for your needs. Do you live in a very dry area? Do you have heavy rains? Depending on your climate, you may need specific elements to keep your basement from flooding or your plants from drying up. A professional can walk you through all of these steps.

If you think your landscaping project is outside of your budget, use these tips to make it more affordable:

• Compare landscaping companies in your area. Take the time to contact the top landscaping companies near you, and ask for estimates on the scope of your work. That way, you’ll ensure you’re getting a fair price. And if you’re not afraid of a little negotiating, having these quotes could provide you with some leverage.
• Buy in bulk. If you’re purchasing plants or gardening materials yourself, try to purchase in bulk as much as possible.
• Buy local. Shipping isn’t always free, and going to your local nursery can save valuable dollars.
• Check with local farmers. See if you can get manure for free. Just make sure to let the manure age before you use it so the salt doesn’t harm your plants.
• Shop online. One way to save money on plants and other materials is to compare prices online. Don't forget to factor in the shipping fees.
• Ask your landscaping company for suggestions. A good landscaping company should be able to help you adjust your vision to fit your budget. For example, they can suggest budget-friendly materials that will help you achieve the look and style you want while saving you money.

Related: 13 cheap, simple front yard landscaping ideas.

After determining which types of landscape features you want, it’s time to hire a landscaping company that can get the job done. But finding the best person or company for your home requires a bit more research.

First, figure out which type of landscaper you need for your project. Then, make sure you review the company thoroughly — and ask the right questions during the hiring process.

Once you’ve identified whether you need a landscape designer, architect, contractor or all three, come up with a list of crucial questions to ask potential candidates before you move forward. Here are some to start with:

• Where do you get your plants? If the plants are local, they’ll probably cost less. And, they’re less likely to suffer from being transplanted.
• How long will this project take? Make sure the time it takes to complete the project won’t interfere with any major events on your end. You’ll also want to get your project done before any major weather events derail it.
• Where are you licensed? If you work with a landscape architect or contractor, make sure they have the proper state license.
• Can you work with my budget? Don’t expect your landscaping company to give specific details about plant selection and design before you make the hire. However, they should be able to give you a general idea of whether your ideas are financially feasible. And some companies might even give you a free estimate.
• Do you have any references? Research to see if they have good reviews, and ask for a list of references that they are able to connect you with.
• What is your work schedule? If the company can give you an up-front estimate of time frames, that’s a good indication that they will stay in communication with you throughout the project.
• Who will be my contact during this project? Know who to contact in case there’s a problem.

You can find more tips on how to hire the right landscaping business for your project by reading our tips on smart hiring.

Are you ready to get started on your landscaping project? Start searching for a reputable landscaping company in your area.