Landscaping covers everything from a weekly mow to a full backyard transformation, so the cost range is enormous. Basic maintenance might run $100–$300 a month, while a designed install — plants, sod, hardscape, irrigation — typically lands between $5,000 and $40,000+. As a rule of thumb, professional landscaping runs about $4 to $12 per square foot of treated area, and many landscapers suggest budgeting 5–10% of your home’s value for a full yard.
This guide breaks down what you’ll pay for common landscaping work, what drives the price, and how to phase a project to fit your budget. These are typical national ranges that vary with your region, lot size, and materials. For exact pricing, browse the ServiceGoat Cost Guides or get matched with local pros below.
Landscaping cost by job
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Lawn mowing (per visit) | $40–$100 |
| Seasonal cleanup | $200–$600 |
| New sod (per sq ft, installed) | $1–$2.50 |
| Mulch & planting beds | $500–$3,000 |
| Tree planting (per tree) | $150–$600 |
| Irrigation / sprinkler system | $2,500–$6,000 |
| Paver patio or walkway | $2,500–$10,000 |
| Retaining wall | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Full landscape design & install | $8,000–$40,000+ |
What drives the cost
- Project size: Cost scales with the square footage you’re transforming.
- Hardscape vs. softscape: Patios, walls, and walkways (hardscape) cost far more than plants and mulch (softscape).
- Materials: Natural stone costs more than concrete pavers; mature plants more than young ones.
- Grading and drainage: Sloped or poorly draining yards need extra prep before anything goes in.
- Irrigation and lighting: Sprinkler systems and landscape lighting add convenience and cost.
- Region and access: Labor rates and how easily equipment reaches your yard both matter.
Cost breakdown
On a designed install, hardscape and materials often make up 50–60% of the budget, with labor the rest. Softscape-only projects (planting, mulch, sod) are more labor-balanced and far cheaper per square foot. Design fees, if charged separately, typically run $50–$150 per hour or a flat fee folded into the install. The biggest swing is always hardscape: a patio or retaining wall can cost as much as the rest of the yard combined.
Example projects
Front-yard refresh
New sod, fresh mulch beds, a few shrubs, and basic cleanup on an average front yard typically runs $2,500–$6,000 — a high-impact, budget-friendly upgrade.
Backyard patio and planting
A paver patio with surrounding beds, a few trees, and lighting commonly costs $10,000–$25,000, depending on patio size and material.
How to save on landscaping
- Phase the project. Tackle hardscape first, then add plantings over a season or two.
- Choose native, hardy plants that need less water and replacement.
- Buy younger plants. They cost a fraction of mature specimens and catch up within a few years.
- Get three quotes and ask what’s included — soil prep, edging, and cleanup are often where bids differ.
- Handle the maintenance yourself once the install is done to avoid ongoing service fees.
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