You’re probably not dreaming about mulch or the cost of sod. You’re thinking about what your yard could look like. A clean front path, shady under a tree, and a calm space, even if the rest of your day isn’t.
Landscaping turns a plain outdoor space into something personal that works for your lifestyle. But before you plant or pave anything, one question usually comes first: “How much is this going to cost?”
In this guide, you’ll learn what landscaping costs in 2025 and how to make smart choices that fit your home, goals, and budget.
Factors That Affect Overall Landscaping Costs
Landscaping prices don’t come out of thin air. Each choice you make, big or small, changes the final number. If you’re in Atlanta, here’s how those costs often break down
Size of Your Yard
The bigger your yard, the more you’ll spend. Landscaping cost per square foot is a useful measure. In Atlanta, the average cost can range from $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on the complexity.
A small front yard might run lower, while a full backyard landscaping job with walkways, flowerbeds, or a pergola climbs higher.
Type of Landscaping
Design-only plans from a landscape architect may cost less upfront but require a budget to bring them to life. If you’re adding hardscaping, like retaining walls, pavers, gazebos, or an outdoor kitchen, expect a higher total cost.
These features are built to last, and so are their price tags. Softscaping includes planting tress, laying sod, native plants, ground covers, and perennials. It gives life to the space. It also changes your landscape maintenance needs. Want a low-maintenance yard? Think xeriscaping or native plant choices that reduce watering and fertilization costs.
- Tree planting: $300-$1,000 per tree
- Lawn installation: $0.50–$2 per sq. ft.
- Irrigation system setup: $2,000-$5,000
- Patio installation: $5-$15 per sq. ft.
Materials
Some materials stretch your dollar. Others stretch your budget. Mulch is affordable and boosts property value fast. New sod installation costs more, but it gives you an instant lawn. Pavers last longer than gravel but cost more per square foot. Installing landscape lighting, a sprinkler system, or a small water feature will raise your project cost.
Labor Costs
Hiring a professional landscape contractor in Atlanta can range from $50 to $100 per hour, depending on the crew, season, and job scope. Complex tasks like tree removal, lawn aeration, or custom landscape installation require more time and skill.
High-end homes with detailed landscaping plans, such as outdoor lighting, custom walkways, and tiered gardens, also have higher labor charges. Even lawn mowing, cleanup, and regular lawn care add to maintenance costs over time.
How to Get a Proper Estimate for Landscaping
With the right prep, you can get a number that makes sense for your yard and wallet.
Know What You Want to Change | Start with your space. Are you redoing the front yard? Expanding the backyard landscaping? Both? Take clear photos and mark out the square foot area you want to work on. This helps the landscaping contractor understand the size and layout of your project. |
List the Features You Want | Make a list of what matters to you. This might include:
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Create a Visual Reference | If you have a style in mind, show it. Use saved photos, Pinterest boards, or even sketches. This helps the landscaping company match your taste, whether you prefer clean lines, softscaping, or bold hardscaping. |
Set a Budget Range | You don’t need an exact number, but a range helps. In Atlanta, the average cost of landscaping can range from $3,000 to $15,000, or more. If you’re adding water features or high-end upgrades, expect the installation costs to rise. |
Ask for a Detailed Quote | Request a full breakdown. A good estimate includes:
This helps you compare different landscaping services and avoid surprises later. |
How to Save Money and Budget for Landscaping
With the right plan, you can stretch your money, get quality results, and build the yard you want.
Start with a Phased Landscaping Plan
You don’t need to complete the whole landscaping project at once. Break it into phases. For example, handle sod installation and mulch this season. Add walkways or a fire pit later. This gives you breathing room in your budget and time to choose each step carefully.
Mix DIY with Pro Help
Some things, like lawn mowing or planting native plants, can be done yourself. Other jobs, like installing retaining walls, irrigation systems, or complex hardscaping, are better left to a landscape contractor. Use your budget where it matters most and save on the rest.
Reuse What You Can
Look around your yard. Old bricks can become edging. Existing flower beds may only need a refresh with new sod or ground covers. Reusing materials lowers your total cost and adds character. Ask your landscaping company about repurposing what you already have.
Plan for Maintenance Costs
In Atlanta, the average cost for professional landscape upkeep can range from $100 to $300 per month, depending on the size of your yard and services included. Choosing low-maintenance options like softscaping can reduce these costs over time.
Ask About Seasonal Discounts
Many landscaping services offer lower installation costs during slower months. Spring and summer often come with peak labor costs. If your timeline is flexible, you may save by scheduling work in fall or early winter.
Be Smart with Add-Ons
It’s easy to want everything that boosts your home value. But every extra feature raises the project cost. Focus on what improves function and curb appeal first, then layer in luxury as your budget allows.
Contact Our Landscape Design Experts About Your Project
As a homeowner, you don’t have to guess what it costs to have new landscaping or the overall cost of your outdoor home improvement. You can get a quote that matches your vision to the last square foot.
So take the next step and share your ideas, goals, and the size of your outdoor space. Request your free landscaping quote today and turn your yard into something you’ll love to come home to!
