Landscaping Costs 2025: What You’ll Pay Per Square Foot, Monthly, and for Your Front Yard

The average landscaping cost for projects in 2025 varies based on the design and complexity. If you're staring at your yard and thinking, "This needs work," prepare yourself for costs. Most homeowners spend between $4,000 and $20,000 to transform their outdoor space. Are you want landscaping at a minimum cost but outstanding? Around $12,800-ish for a solid, mid-range project. 

But let's break it down:

• Small Project: Think basic lawn care, tossing in a few flower beds, or fixing that sad patch of grass. You're looking at $500 to $2,000. It is perfect for stopping your homeowner from side-eyeing your lawn.
• Big Project: Do you like a stone patio, a fire pit for summer s'mores, or a backyard glow-up? That'll run you $3k to $10k+. (Pro tip: Splurging on that "outdoor living room" vibe? Worth it.)

Why does this matter?

Landscaping isn't just about impressing the neighbours (though, hello, curb appeal). A killer yard can boost your home's value and turn your space into a chill zone for lazy Sundays or backyard BBQS. However, the significant point is that prices have recently increased. The rise can be ascribed to inflation, an increasing demand for eco-friendly materials, and the desire for yards that resemble the aesthetic appeal often seen on Pinterest. As for labour costs? They've gone up too. But remember that hiring professionals guarantees quality and efficiency, giving you peace of mind and a beautiful space you'll enjoy.

• Average Cost: Average cost is $8,000+ for a complete landscaping project.
• Typical Range: Between $2,600 and $13,700, depending on the project's complexity, design and location.
• Per Square Foot: Landscaping costs range from $4 to $17 per square foot, with an average of $11 per square foot.

For instance, landscaping a 500-square-foot area could cost between $2,000 and $8,500, depending on the complexity and materials used.

Landscaping Cost Estimate by Size

The size of your yard plays a significant role in examining landscaping costs. Here's an estimate based on yard size:

• Small Yards (under 500 sq ft): $1,500 to $5,000.
• Medium Yards (500–1,000 sq ft): $5,000 to $10,000.
• Large Yards (1,000+ sq ft): $10,000 and up.

For larger properties, landscaping costs per acre can range from $2,000 to $4,000 for basic landscaping.

How Much Does Monthly Landscaping Cost?

• Monthly landscaping services usually cost between $100 and $500, depending on the size of your yard and the services required.
• Basic maintenance, like mowing and trimming, will fall on the lower end of the price range.
• More detailed services, such as seasonal planting, fertilising, or garden design, may increase costs.
• Some companies offer packages that include regular maintenance and seasonal services, which can help save money in the long run.

Commercial Landscaping Cost

• Commercial landscaping costs typically range from $5,000 to $100,000+, depending on the property size and scope of work.
• On average, expect to spend $0.10 to $0.50 per square foot for basic commercial landscaping services.
• Based on frequency and services, ongoing maintenance contracts can cost between $500 to $5,000 per month.
• Enhancements like lighting, irrigation, or seasonal planting will increase your commercial landscaping cost, often by $2,000 to $10,000.
• Investing in a professional team can raise your commercial landscaping cost, but it helps create a clean, welcoming space that attracts customers and tenants.

Residential Landscaping Cost

• The cost of residential landscaping usually ranges between $3,000 and $20,000, depending on the size of the yard and the design choices.
• Simple lawn care and planting might only cost $500 to $3,000, while custom features like patios or retaining walls can push costs to $15,000+.
• DIY projects can reduce residential landscaping costs, but hiring pros ensures better execution and long-term results.
• Depending on the yard size, lawn mowing, trimming, and seasonal cleanup typically cost $50 to $300 per visit.
• A smart investment in landscaping enhances curb appeal and boosts property value, making the residential landscaping cost worthwhile.

How much does monthly landscaping cost?

• The average monthly landscaping cost is typically between $100–$300 for standard lawn care.
• Services usually include mowing, edging, weeding, and general clean.
• Extra tasks like hedge trimming, seasonal planting, or fertilising can cost $400 or more.
• Bigger or more intricate yards tend to cost more because they require more time and work.
• It’s always smart to ask for a custom quote based on your yard needs.

Factors Influencing Landscaping Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of your landscaping project:

1. Design

• Keep it simple with clean lines and basic layouts to save money.
• Want something fancier, like waterfalls, winding pathways, or a mini zen garden?
• Fancy details look amazing, but can drive up the cost.
  
  

2. Material

• Instagram-perfect natural stone patios or custom LED lights? Go for it!
• But remember, high-end materials come with higher price tags.
• Budget-friendly options like gravel or pre-made pavers can keep costs low.
  
  

3. Labour Cost

• Professional landscapers typically charge $50–100/hour, depending on their skills and your location.
• Although a seasoned crew may cost more upfront, they'll finish faster and fix mistakes you didn’t notice.
  
  

4. Location

• Prices vary depending on where you live.
• Urban areas tend to have pricier labour costs.
• Rural areas might charge extra for the delivery of rare plants or materials (.g.,e.g., a $200 palm tree shipped to Minnesota).

Tips to Manage Landscaping Costs

• Plan Ahead:  Thorough planning can prevent unexpected expenses and ensure the project stays within budget.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Consulting with several landscaping companies can help you find competitive pricing.
• Consider DIY for Small Tasks: Doing it yourself can save money on planting flowers or Mulching.
• Opt for Seasonal Planting: Choosing plants in season can reduce costs and ensure better growth.

Common Landscape Installation Services

Various factors are involved in landscape installation cost, such as: 

• Sod Installation: $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot.
• Patio Installation: $2,500 to $6,600.
• Pathway Installation: $1,000 to $2,500.
• Retaining Walls: $3,000 to $8,000.
• Water Features: $1,000 to $5,000.

These services can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space.

Common Landscape Maintenance Services

Regular maintenance is essential to give your landscape a stylish and elegant look. Most common services include:

• Lawn Mowing: $30 to $80 per visit.
• Fertilisation: $50 to $100 per application.
• Pruning and Trimming: $50 to $150 per session.
• Weeding and Mulching: $100 to $300 per visit.

Monthly maintenance costs for the basic range from $100 to $500, depending on yard size and service frequency. 

Cost of Landscaping Front Yard:

• Price Range: Landscaping a front yard typically costs between $2,000 to $10,000.
• Size & Design Matter: Larger yards or more intricate designs can increase the overall cost.
• Simple Landscaping:
• Grass, shrubs, and mulch are more budget-friendly options.
• Can cost on the lower end of the range, around $2,000 to $4,000.
• Adding Features:
• Installing a new pathway, decorative trees, or flowers increases costs.
• These features can push your budget closer to $5,000 or more.
• High-End Materials:
• Natural stone, custom paving, or exotic plants can significantly raise costs.
• Expect to pay more for premium materials like flagstone or custom landscaping elements.
• Hiring Professionals:
• Professional landscapers typically charge for design and labour, adding to your total cost.
• They bring experience and creativity and can complete the job faster and hassle-free.
• DIY landscaping might save money upfront, but pros ensure quality and reduce the risk of costly mistakes.
• Maintenance:
• After installation, regular upkeep (mowing, trimming, fertilising) is necessary.
• Some landscaping companies offer packages for ongoing maintenance, which may be an additional monthly or seasonal cost.

Landscaping Cost for Backyard

• Basic landscaping: $1,500–$5,000
• Full backyard makeover: $10,000–$30,000
• Minimal upgrades (plants, mulch): under $2,000
• Add-ons (deck, lights, fire pit): $5,000+
• DIY approach: Budget-friendly, but labour-intensive
• Professional services: More cost, but less hassle
• Backyard size & design affect the final cost

Cost of Installing a New Landscape DIY

Opting for a DIY approach can reduce costs:

• Basic Lawn Care: $500 to $1,000.
• Planting Shrubs and Flowers: $1,000 to $3,000.
• Installing a Patio: $2,500 to $6,600.

Thinking about DIY Landscaping? Here's the Real Deal

DIY projects can save you cash, but let's be honest, they're not free. You'll trade money for time, sweat, tiredness and a serious learning curve. Here's what to expect:

DIY Maintenance Costs

• Tools & Gear: You'll spend $100–$500 on basic tools like shovels, trimmers, gloves, and maybe a wheelbarrow. (Pro tip: Check garage sales or Facebook Marketplace for cheap tools! Just don't buy a rusty shovel, it'll snap mid-dig.)
• Monthly Upkeep: Plan for $50–100/month on stuff like mulch, fertiliser, seeds, or pest control. Forgot to buy weed killer? Congrats, your yard's now a dandelion farm.
• Effort Required: Water, weed, mow, and prune regularly. Skip a week, and your lawn turns into a jungle. Bonus: You'll get a free workout (and blisters).

DIY Landscaping:

Upfront Costs: 

• DIY landscaping cuts labour costs, which can make up a large part of professional fees.
• A typical landscaping project can cost between $4,000 and $20,000, with most of it going towards labour.

Material Costs: 

• You’ll need to buy tools like shovels, rakes, trowels, and materials like plants, soil, and pavers.
• These costs add up fast, but remember that tools are a one-time investment for future projects.

Time: 

• DIY landscaping can be time-consuming.
• It involves planning the layout, picking plants, and getting hands-on.
• It could take weeks or even months to complete, depending on your free time.

The Learning Curve is Real

Sure, DIY gives you creative control and a sense of accomplishment, but it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re unfamiliar with soil types, spacing, or drainage. One wrong move, and you might end up redoing parts of the project. Improper irrigation, plant placement, or soil preparation can lead to costly repairs or additional purchases later.

Professional Landscaping: Expertise and Efficiency

Investment Breakdown

• Expertise and Quality Workmanship: Professionals avoid silly mistakes (like planting sun-hating shrubs in full glare) and make sure your space works and looks good.
• Access to Discounted Materials: They have supplier hookups so that you can save cash on plants, pavers, and mulch. 
• Long-Term Savings: When professionals install things right (and maintain them), you won’t waste cash fixing problems down the road. 

Time Efficiency

• Swift Project Completion: With dedicated teams and specialised tools, professionals can complete landscaping projects much faster than DIY.
• Freeing Up Your Schedule: When you bring in the pros, your weekends are no longer about yard work. Instead, you relax, spend time with family, or do what you love, without worrying about overgrown lawns or messy flowerbeds.

Expertise and Knowledge

• In-Depth Understanding: Professional landscapers have hands-on experience. They know your local soil, understand how drainage affects plant health, and choose the right greenery that thrives in your area. 
• Problem Prevention: Their expertise allows them to foresee potential issues and address them proactively, saving you from future headaches.

Design and Creativity

• Creative Ideas: Professional landscapers do more than plant trees.
• Proficiency: They bring fresh, creative ideas for your yard.
• Cosy Corner: Think cosy firepit corners that invite you to relax.
• Innovative Style: Stylish patios designed to suit your lifestyle.
• Deep Analysis: They help make your outdoor space truly stand out.

A Look That Just Flows

When the design is cohesive, everything feels more put together. Experts ensure that your plants, stones, and pathways work harmoniously so your yard doesn’t just look good—it feels right.

What Landscaping Might Cost And Why
Landscaping prices vary and depending on where you live:

• In the city? Expect higher costs thanks to labour rates and pricier materials.
• In a rural area? It might be more affordable, but choices can be limited.

Your best bet is to check out local landscapers and get a few quotes to know you’re getting the right deal for your space and budget.

Top Commercial Landscaping Companies in Northern Virginia

Keeping your commercial property looking sharp in NoVa isn't just about mowing grass. It's curb appeal, safety, and ensuring your tenants or clients don't cringe when they pull into the parking lot. Here are some top-notch local companies that'll handle the dirty work (so you don't have to):

1. Complete Landscaping Service

Complete Landscaping Service has been family-run for 40+ years. They handle everything from design to upkeep, working with office complexes, apartment buildings, and shopping centres, no frills and just reliable, hands-on care.

2. LandCare

With over 20 years in business, LandCare has become one of the most comprehensive providers of commercial landscape services in the United States. Their 50 branches across 20 states offer landscape maintenance, enhancements, and snow and ice management services.

3. BrightView

BrightView is one of the largest commercial landscaping companies in North America. It manages properties such as corporate offices, institutions, hotels, and retail centres. Its services include landscape maintenance, design, construction, tree care, and water management.

4. Silverbrook Nursery & Landscaping

Your commercial outdoor space is your first impression when someone enters your property. They focus on commercial spaces, turning chaotic lots into sharp, welcoming areas that attract customers and boost your property’s vibe. No generic copy-paste designs, just fresh, lively spots that make people notice your place.

5. Ryan's Landscaping

A small business that cares for over 500 properties in Northern Virginia, Ryan's Landscaping offers various home and commercial landscaping services, including design, installation, and maintenance. Even material selection for better work.

6. AllGreen Landscape Company

Operating in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, AllGreen Landscape Company provides commercial landscaping services such as lawn care, landscape installation, and year-round maintenance. They also serve government properties across the region.

7. Premier Turf and Landscaping

Based in Northern Virginia, they handle everything from design to upkeep. They'll team up with you to build outdoor spaces that fit your vibe—no cookie-cutter designs.

Conclusion

Landscaping cost and maintenance depend on various factors such as size, design, location and project complexity—the landscaping cost ranges between $100 to $5000. If you live in Manassas, hire professionals for landscaping in Manassas, VA. Deciding between DIY and professional landscaping hinges on several factors: budget, time, skill level, and desired outcome. Going the DIY route can save you some cash, but let's be honest, it's not free. You're swapping dollars for sweat, time, and a crash course in "Why did I think I could build a retaining wall?" You'll need patience, a high tolerance for dirt under your nails, and the ability to laugh when your "simple project" spirals into three weekends of chaos. 

FAQs

How much should I pay my landscaper?

• Landscaping rates vary, but you can expect to pay $50–100 per hour for professional services.
• The cost depends on the type of project, location, and the landscaper's experience.
• Some landscapers may offer flat rates for lawn care, planting, or garden design projects.

Is landscaping very expensive?

• It can be, depending on the project's scope and the materials used.
• For example, landscaping a large yard with high-end materials like stone patios or custom lighting can get pricey.
• However, smaller, more basic landscaping jobs like mowing or simple garden beds can be more affordable.

Should I tell my landscaper my budget?

• Sharing your budget helps landscapers create a plan that fits your financial goals.
• Being upfront about your budget allows them to recommend cost-effective solutions or adjust the design to match what you can afford.

How to calculate landscaping costs?

• Start by getting a few quotes from landscapers to get an average price for your project.
• The cost is divided between material (plants, mulch, pavers) and labour (hourly or flat-rate fees).
• Consider extra costs like equipment rentals or delivery fees for larger items or plants.

How can I save money on landscaping?

• Opt for simpler designs and materials that don't require a lot of upkeep.
• Do some tasks, like planting or mulching, to reduce labour costs.
• Shop for plants and materials during off-season sales for discounts.

What is the least expensive way to landscape?

• Focus on low-maintenance plants, like native species, that thrive in your area.
• Use materials like gravel, mulch, or pre-made pavers instead of high-end stone or brick.
• DIY simple tasks like lawn care, trimming, and edging instead of hiring a professional for everything.

Should you spend money on landscaping?

• Landscaping can be a great investment for a beautiful, functional outdoor space.
• It can add value and enjoyment to your home.
• Focus on basic maintenance tasks like lawn care and trimming.
• Take on small, simple projects that improve the look of your yard.
• Prioritise cost-effective updates without exceeding your budget.