Landscaping Cost Estimator
Estimate landscaping project costs with itemized materials (mulch, rock, plants, edging, sod) and labor. Get low, mid, and high cost ranges instantly.
Materials Checklist
How It Works
Enter your total project area, then check off the materials you plan to use and fill in quantities. The calculator uses typical contractor pricing: mulch at $40/cu yd, rock at $50/ton, plants at $15 each, edging at $2/lin ft, and sod at $0.45/sq ft.
Choose DIY or Hire to see how labor affects total cost. Hired labor is estimated at $50/hr with approximately 0.1 hours per square foot of project area.
The three estimates (low/mid/high) use 0.8x, 1.0x, and 1.3x multipliers to account for regional pricing differences and project complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does landscaping cost per square foot?
Basic landscaping (mulch, edging, a few plants) typically costs $4–$12 per square foot for materials alone. With professional labor at $50/hour, expect $8–$20 per square foot total. Complex projects with sod, rock, and extensive planting can reach $15–$30+ per square foot.
Is it cheaper to landscape yourself?
DIY landscaping saves 40–60% compared to hiring a crew, since labor is typically the largest expense. For a 1,000 sq ft project, you might save $3,000–$5,000 in labor costs. However, factor in tool rental, your time, and the learning curve for specialized tasks like grading or irrigation.
What are the most expensive landscaping materials?
Sod is one of the priciest ground covers at $0.30–$0.80/sq ft, but it gives instant results. Decorative stone (Mexican beach pebble, marble chips) runs $65–$80/ton. Mature plants and trees can cost $50–$500+ each. Hardscaping (patios, retaining walls) is typically the most expensive component overall.
How do I budget for a landscaping project?
Start by measuring your total project area and listing desired materials. Use this calculator to get a baseline estimate, then add 20–30% for contingencies. Prioritize structural work (grading, drainage) first, then hardscaping, and finally plants and mulch — items that are easy to add later.