The Complete Breakdown: How Much Does Landscape Design and Installation Cost in 2025?

Understanding Your Concerns About Landscape Design Costs

You’re staring out your window at your yard, wondering if it could look better. Maybe the grass is a little too patchy, or the flowers you planted last spring didn’t quite turn out how you imagined. Maybe you’ve got bigger ideas, like a backyard patio, a new garden path, or even an outdoor kitchen. The truth is, you know your yard has potential, but you’re not sure how much it’ll cost to bring that vision to life.

If you’ve been thinking about professional landscaping, there’s one question you can’t ignore: How much will it cost?

We totally get it. At Willow Ridge Garden Center and Landscaping, we talk to homeowners like you every day—people who want a beautiful, functional outdoor space but feel overwhelmed by the idea of the price tag. You might be nervous about hidden costs, unsure of how much of an investment you’re actually making, or worried that you’ll end up paying more than you expected. Maybe you’ve even heard stories from friends about skyrocketing landscaping bills and felt anxious about stepping into that world yourself.

Here’s the thing: we’re here to help. We want to take the mystery out of landscaping costs for you and give you a real breakdown of what to expect in 2025. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple garden update or a full-scale outdoor living area, we’ll guide you through the process and explain the key factors that influence costs—so you can make a more informed decision that works for both your wallet and your home.

In this article, we’re not here to sell you something. Instead, we’re here to educate, share our expertise, and help you understand exactly what goes into landscaping pricing. And while we aren’t a massive company, at Willow Ridge, we’re obsessed with customizing our services to fit your needs, so we know how to provide a tailored experience that’s just right for you.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clearer idea of what goes into the cost of landscaping design and installation—and you’ll feel more confident about how to plan your next project.

Factors That Impact Landscaping Costs in 2025

Before we jump into exact pricing, let’s take a step back. Landscaping isn’t just a one-size-fits-all service. There are a lot of factors that go into pricing a project, and each one can change the total cost. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. The Size of Your Yard

It might sound obvious, but the size of your yard is a major factor. A small garden update will naturally cost less than a complete overhaul of a large property. If you have a tiny backyard that needs a few plants and mulch, you’re looking at a much lower price than someone with several acres that needs drainage solutions, a new patio, and custom-built hardscaping features.

For instance, a typical small landscaping project  could cost anywhere between $5,000-$10,000. But for a medium-sized yard, the cost might rise to $11,000to $20,000. Larger yards could cost $25,000 and beyond, depending on the complexity of the design and features you want to include.

Relatable Example: Think of your yard like a canvas. The bigger the canvas, the more paint and time it takes to fill it. If you’re working with a small canvas (a small yard), it won’t take as much to make it look amazing.

  1. What You Want to Do: The Scope of the Project

What are you envisioning for your space? The cost of your landscaping project depends on whether you’re looking for a few aesthetic tweaks or a full outdoor transformation.

  • Basic Landscaping: This might include planting flowers or simple shrub installations. For a smaller project, the cost can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
  • Medium Projects: If you’re adding features like pathways, retaining walls, outdoor lighting, or a small patio, your costs could range from $7,000 to $15,000.
  • Complex Designs: Full-scale projects involving custom hardscaping, water features, or an outdoor fire pit $20,000 and up.

Relatable Example: If you’re just sprucing up your garden with flowers and shrubs, it’s like buying some new clothes for an old outfit. But if you’re building a whole new backyard with a fire pit, a paver patio, and custom seating wall, it’s like renovating your entire wardrobe from the ground up. Bigger changes require more investment.

  1. Materials: The Quality and Type

When it comes to landscaping, not all materials are created equal. The type of plants, stones, and features you choose can drastically change your budget. For example, natural stone or pavers for your patio or retaining wall can be beautiful but expensive. On the other hand, concrete offers a more affordable alternative.

  • Budget-Friendly Options: Mulch and standard plants are generally more affordable. You can expect to spend less on materials like these.
  • High-End Materials: Natural stone, high-quality pavers, or custom-built features like fire pits, water features, or outdoor kitchens will increase your budget significantly.

Relatable Example: Think of it like furniture. You could get a perfectly nice couch at a lower price, or you could choose a high-end, custom-built sectional. The nicer the material, the more it costs.

      1. Complexity of Design: Custom vs. Simple

If your design calls for custom features, like built-in seating, unique layouts, or detailed drainage solutions, it will take more time and expertise—and therefore, more money. Simpler, more straightforward designs are quicker to execute, meaning they usually cost less.

Relatable Example: A straightforward garden with some plants and a nice lawn is like putting together a simple puzzle—easy to execute. But if you want a garden that has multiple levels, a fire pit, and intricate stone paths, it’s more like assembling a complicated piece of IKEA furniture with all the details.

  1. Labor Costs: Expertise and Time

Skilled labor is one of the most important parts of landscaping. When you hire professionals, you’re not just paying for materials but also for their expertise, planning, and time. A highly experienced landscaper may charge a bit more, but their work is often worth the investment.

Relatable Example: It’s like hiring a good contractor for home repairs. You could get someone cheap who might do the job poorly or you could pay a little more for someone who does it right the first time.

Average Costs for Landscaping in 2025

Now that we’ve covered the big factors, let’s get into specific numbers. Keep in mind that these are just averages—each project is unique, and your costs may vary.

  • Small Landscaping Projects: $5,000 – $10,000
  • Medium Landscaping Projects: $11,000 – $20,000
  • Large Landscaping Projects: $25,000 and up 

Tips for Saving Money Without Cutting Corners

Landscaping doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few ways to save without sacrificing quality:

  1. Plan for Phases

If you’re working within a tight budget, consider breaking up the project into phases. You can tackle one section at a time—starting with the most important features—and spread out the costs.

  1. We Plan You Plant 

Our “We Plan, You Plant” program is ideal for DIY weekend projects, focusing on manageable garden beds around 10×10 feet. If you have a larger project in mind, we’re here to help, though pricing may vary. The best part? It’s completely free! Just purchase a gift card for your design fee, which can be used towards your new plants.

The Value of Investing in Landscaping

At the end of the day, landscaping is an investment—not just in your home, but in your lifestyle. A well-designed outdoor space can improve your home’s curb appeal, increase its value, and provide a place for relaxation, entertaining, and making memories with your family.

We understand that the cost can be a big concern. But with the right planning, understanding the factors that impact pricing, and working with a team that truly cares about customizing your experience, landscaping doesn’t have to be a scary financial decision. It’s about making your yard a place that reflects who you are and enhances your daily life.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we at Willow Ridge Garden Center and Landscaping are here to help guide you through the process and provide a transparent estimate based on your vision. Let’s create something beautiful together!