Landscaping Cost Estimator
Enter your yard size and the features you want for a realistic landscaping budget — plants to patios.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Landscaping cost = planting base + hardscape + systems:
- Planting (~$6–22/sq ft): basic sod-and-mulch beds vs designer plantings with mature specimens. Labor is about half this number — DIY saves big.
- Hardscape (~$18/sq ft installed): paver patios, walkways, edging. The priciest line per square foot.
- Irrigation (~$2,500 + $0.50/sq ft): pays for itself in plant survival and water bills in dry climates.
- Lighting (~$2,500): a transformer + 8–12 LED fixtures; the highest wow-per-dollar upgrade.
- Phasing: hardscape first (it's disruptive), then irrigation, then planting, lighting last.
- ROI: good landscaping returns ~100%+ at resale — it's the rare project that pays for itself in curb appeal.
Frequently asked questions
How much does landscaping cost?
Roughly $6/sq ft (basic), $12/sq ft (mid-range), $22/sq ft (designer), plus hardscape and systems. A 5,000 sq ft basic yard ≈ $30,000.
What is the most expensive part?
Hardscape — patios and walls at ~$18/sq ft installed. Plants are cheap; moving stone and soil is not.
Can I save with DIY?
Yes — labor is ~50% of planting costs. DIY the planting and mulch, hire out hardscape and irrigation.
Is irrigation worth it?
In dry climates, yes — ~$2,500+ for the system vs dead plants and high water bills. In wet climates, often skippable.
How much does landscape lighting cost?
About $2,500 for a transformer plus 8–12 LED fixtures installed. Huge curb-appeal return for the money.
What order should I do things?
Hardscape first (messiest), then irrigation lines, then planting, lighting last. Doing it backwards means re-digging.
Does landscaping increase home value?
Yes — quality landscaping is one of the few projects that can return 100%+ at resale through curb appeal.
Sod or seed?
Sod: instant lawn, 5–10x the cost. Seed: cheap, needs weeks of watering and patience. Hydroseed splits the difference.
How do I keep costs down?
Phase the project, DIY planting, choose native plants (less water/maintenance), and get 3 quotes — pricing varies enormously.
Do I need a landscape designer?
For plant selection and layout on bigger projects, a $500–1,500 design plan pays for itself in avoided mistakes. Installation can still be DIY.