Landscape Design Cost Calculator
Estimated Cost per Sq Ft varies by project type.
Value will be auto-converted to square feet.
Additional cost per sq ft based on complexity.
Cost per Sq Ft varies by material.
Installation cost per sq ft.
Additional cost per Sq Ft.
Flat fee cost for lighting & features.
Cost per linear foot applies if selected.
Adjusts total cost by a seasonal multiplier.
Project Cost: $0
Lighting & Feature Cost: $0
Fencing Cost: $0
Total Estimate: $0
Updated On: May 25, 2025
Landscape Design Cost Calculator
Created by James S. Lockwood
With a background in botany and ecological sciences, James specializes in creating practical tools and resources to help gardeners, farmers, and plant enthusiasts optimize their green spaces.
Our Landscape Design Cost Calculator helps you estimate total landscaping costs by factoring in your property size, project type, design complexity, material choices, installation method, and optional features like lighting, fencing, and irrigation.
Table of Contents
How the Landscape Design Cost Calculator Works?
The calculator uses real-world cost data (in cost per square foot or flat fees) to compute a customized estimate. It auto-converts between square feet, square meters, and acres. Seasonal pricing is also applied based on whether you’re planning for peak (spring/summer) or off-season work. This means your final estimate includes all the major variables that affect landscape design pricing, so you can budget with confidence.
How Much Do Landscape Designers Cost?
Landscape designers typically charge between $50 to $150 per hour, or offer flat-rate packages that range from $2,000 to over $15,000, depending on the scope. For simple planting plans or garden layouts, the cost may be under $3,000, whereas comprehensive landscape design services—including site analysis, 3D renderings, and contractor coordination—can climb significantly higher.
👉 Our Landscape Design Cost Calculator simplifies this by offering cost-per-square-foot ranges based on project type and complexity, giving you a faster and more practical alternative to manual quote gathering.
Cost Estimate for Landscaping Projects
The cost of landscaping projects is heavily influenced by property size, material selection, design intricacy, and labor choice. A basic front yard project might start around $5–$10 per square foot, while premium hardscaping or water features can push costs to $60–$100+ per square foot.
Our landscape design cost calculator uses layered data to estimate pricing across categories like pavers, sod, concrete, turf, irrigation systems, and even lighting packages—ensuring a thorough, up-to-date cost snapshot tailored to your inputs.
According to a 2014 study on sustainable landscape planning and design, integrating ecological economics into landscape projects can improve long-term cost-efficiency and environmental impact, which our Landscape Design Cost Calculator indirectly supports by helping users plan smarter, resource-conscious designs.
Landscape Design Cost Factors
When budgeting for a landscape design, consider both fixed and variable costs. Fixed fees often include consultation or plan development, while variable costs depend on:
Project type (e.g., garden vs patio)
Design complexity (basic, standard, or premium)
Material choice (from mulch to pavers)
Installation labor (DIY, basic, or professional)
Extra features like fencing, lighting, or irrigation
Seasonal pricing (off-season discounts vs peak markups)
Our calculator evaluates all these parameters to provide an accurate landscape design pricing estimate in seconds.
Remodel Backyard Cost Guide
Remodeling a backyard often involves multiple layers: grading, planting, patios, lighting, and structures. Costs for a basic backyard remodel typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, while premium transformations with outdoor kitchens, lighting, and water features can exceed $50,000.
Using the landscape price calculator, you can simulate different remodeling scenarios by changing project type, materials, and optional features like pergolas or privacy fencing. This makes it the perfect tool for evaluating backyard remodel costs before reaching out to a contractor.
Landscape Price Calculator: Sample Breakdown
Here’s how our landscape cost calculator might work in practice:
Example:
Project: Hardscaping
Area: 800 sq ft
Design: Standard
Material: Pavers
Labor: Professional
Lighting: Premium Package
Fence: Vinyl, 60 ft
Season: Peak➜ Base cost/sq ft = $32.50 (project) + $15 (complexity) + $20 (material) + $20 (labor) = $87.50
➜ Total = (800 × $87.50) + $2,000 (lighting) + (60 × $40) [fence] = $70,000+
➜ Seasonal Multiplier (Peak): 1.1
➜ Final Estimate = $77,000+
This dynamic approach makes our landscape design price calculator the most comprehensive and accurate tool online for homeowners and designers alike.
Factors That Affect Landscaping Costs
📏 Property Size
Larger properties naturally increase the cost of materials and labor. Our calculator considers size variations to provide an accurate quote.
🛠️ Project Complexity
Basic gardens with minimal landscaping cost much less than custom designs with lighting, irrigation, and luxury hardscaping.
🏗️ Material Selection
Material costs vary significantly. Sod is cheaper than artificial turf, while pavers and natural stone cost more than mulch or concrete.
👷 Labor Costs
Hiring a professional landscaper costs $10-$30 per square foot, while DIY projects only require material costs.
🌦️ Seasonal Pricing
Landscaping is cheaper in fall and winter due to lower demand. Our calculator automatically adjusts pricing based on the season.
What Can You Include in Your Landscaping Project?
Here are some additional features you can add to your landscaping design:
🔹 Hardscaping Features (Driveways, Walkways, Retaining Walls)
- Concrete: $8 – $20 per sq ft
- Pavers: $10 – $30 per sq ft
🔹 Irrigation Systems
- Drip irrigation: $2 – $5 per sq ft
- Sprinkler system: $4 – $10 per sq ft
🔹 Outdoor Lighting
- Pathway lights: $50 – $200 per fixture
- Patio lighting: $500 – $2,000 per package
🔹 Water Features & Outdoor Living Spaces
- Small fountain: $1,000+
- Pergola: $2,000 – $10,000
👉 Use our Landscape Design Cost Calculator to estimate the price of these features.
Related Calculators for Landscape Design & Outdoor Projects
Enhance your landscaping project planning with these related calculators. Whether you’re estimating lawn care, irrigation, or materials, these tools complement the Landscape Design Cost Calculator:
💧 Irrigation & Water Management
Drip Irrigation Cost Calculator – Estimate the total cost of installing a drip irrigation system based on layout and materials.
Drip Irrigation Run Time Calculator – Calculate optimal watering duration to avoid over or under-watering.
Drip Irrigation Flow Rate Calculator – Ensure your system delivers the right amount of water per zone.
Drip Irrigation Calculator – Plan out emitters, spacing, and overall irrigation design.
Irrigation Water Requirement Calculator – Understand how much water your plants will need based on climate and crop type.
🌱 Soil, Mulch, and Lawn Planning
Soil Calculator – Determine how much soil you need for planting beds or topdressing.
Mulch Installation Cost Calculator – Get cost estimates for mulch based on area and depth.
Compost Calculator – Calculate the amount of compost needed for garden improvement or new beds.
Dirt & Topsoil Calculator – Figure out how much dirt or topsoil you’ll need for leveling and planting.
Grass Seed Calculator – Estimate the amount of grass seed needed based on area and seed type.
Lawn Care Cost Calculator – Assess maintenance costs for lawn services like mowing, fertilizing, and aeration.
Lawn Fertilizer Calculator – Plan nutrient applications based on lawn area and fertilizer type.
Sod Calculator – Instantly estimate the amount of sod required for your lawn area.
🛠️ Structural Add-ons & Budgeting Tools
Fence Installation Cost Calculator – Estimate fencing material and installation costs by length and type.
Greenhouse Cost Calculator – Ideal for those adding growing structures as part of their landscape plan.
Lawn Mowing Cost Calculator – Understand recurring maintenance costs if you outsource mowing services.
✅ Tip: Using these calculators alongside the Landscape Design Cost Calculator will give you a full-spectrum estimate for your outdoor project—ensuring you don’t miss a detail.
Landscape Design Cost Calculator FAQ
What is the average cost of landscape design?
The average landscape design costs between $2,000 and $7,000, depending on the scope, with full-service projects potentially exceeding $15,000.
Is this a free landscape design calculator?
Yes. Our landscape design cost calculator is free, easy to use, and updated for accuracy using national pricing data.
Can I use this tool to plan a backyard remodel?
Absolutely. By selecting options like patios, fencing, lighting, and irrigation, you can use this calculator to model backyard renovation costs.
Are regional cost differences considered?
We apply cost-per-square-foot averages that reflect typical U.S. pricing. While local markets may vary slightly, this gives you a reliable planning range.
Does this calculator include labor?
Yes, you can select between DIY, basic, and professional installation—all of which affect the total estimate shown.
Disclaimer for Landscape Design Cost Calculator
This Landscape Design Cost Calculator provides estimated costs based on average market rates. Actual project costs may vary depending on location, materials, labor, and custom project requirements. This tool is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a final quote or professional advice. Always consult with a licensed landscaper for accurate pricing.
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