How Much Does Landscaping Cost? A Complete Guide

Understanding Landscaping Costs

Landscaping costs vary dramatically based on project scope, materials, and your location within Wisconsin. A simple spring cleanup might cost $200, while a complete backyard transformation could exceed $50,000. This guide helps you understand what drives these costs and budget appropriately for your project.

Factors That Affect Landscaping Prices

Several variables influence your final cost:

Property Size

Larger yards require more materials, more labor hours, and more equipment. Landscapers typically price by square footage for installations and by time or lot size for maintenance.

Project Complexity

A flat yard is easier to work with than one with slopes, drainage issues, or existing structures to work around. Complex sites require more planning and specialized equipment.

Materials Selected

Natural stone costs more than pavers. Mature trees cost more than saplings. Premium mulch costs more than basic varieties. Your material choices significantly impact the total.

Labor Costs

Wisconsin landscaping labor typically runs $50-100 per hour depending on the task. Specialized work like irrigation installation or lighting commands higher rates.

Common Landscaping Services and Costs

Lawn Care and Maintenance

• Weekly mowing: $30-80 per visit (based on lot size)
• Spring/fall cleanup: $150-400
• Fertilization program: $200-600 annually
• Aeration and overseeding: $100-300
• Weed control: $50-150 per treatment

Planting and Gardens

• Flower bed installation: $500-3,000 depending on size
• Shrub planting: $25-100 per shrub (installed)
• Tree planting: $150-3,000 per tree (size dependent)
• Mulching: $3-6 per square foot
• Garden design: $500-2,000 for professional plans

Hardscaping

• Paver patio: $15-30 per square foot
• Natural stone patio: $25-50 per square foot
• Concrete patio: $8-15 per square foot
• Retaining walls: $25-50 per square foot of wall face
• Walkways: $10-25 per linear foot
• Outdoor kitchen: $5,000-25,000+

Specialty Features

• Irrigation system: $2,500-5,000 for average yard
• Landscape lighting: $2,000-5,000 for comprehensive system
• Water features: $1,500-15,000
• Fire pit: $500-3,000 (built-in: $1,500-7,000)
• Pergola: $3,000-10,000

Seasonal Considerations in Wisconsin

Our climate creates unique landscaping considerations and opportunities:

Spring (April-May)

Prime planting season. Landscapers are busiest, so book early. Spring is ideal for:

• Tree and shrub planting
• New lawn installation
• Cleanup from winter damage
• Mulching

Summer (June-August)

Best for hardscaping projects. Consistent dry weather helps with:

• Patio and walkway installation
• Retaining wall construction
• Outdoor living space additions

Fall (September-October)

Excellent for planting and often better pricing. Consider:

• Tree planting (roots establish before winter)
• Fall cleanup services
• Winterization of irrigation systems

Winter (November-March)

Planning season. Use this time to:

• Get design consultations (often lower rates)
• Book spring projects early
• Budget for upcoming work

DIY vs Professional Landscaping

Some projects are manageable for handy homeowners; others require professionals:

Good DIY Projects

• Mulching
• Planting annuals and small shrubs
• Basic lawn care
• Simple garden bed creation

Hire a Professional For

• Large tree planting or removal
• Hardscaping (patios, walls, walkways)
• Grading and drainage work
• Irrigation installation
• Large-scale design and installation

Getting Accurate Quotes

To receive accurate estimates:

1. Know your property dimensions or have a survey available
2. Take photos of the areas you want to improve
3. Have a clear idea of your goals (function, aesthetics, budget)
4. Understand your timeline
5. Get at least three quotes for comparison

What to Include in Your Request

When requesting quotes, specify:

• Exact services needed
• Preferred materials (if known)
• Project timeline
• Budget range
• Any special considerations (pets, children, existing features)

Budgeting Tips for Wisconsin Homeowners

Make the most of your landscaping budget:

• Phase larger projects: Do hardscaping one year, planting the next
• Book off-season: Fall planting often comes with better pricing
• Choose native plants: Wisconsin natives require less maintenance and water
• Invest in quality: Cheap materials often need replacement sooner
• Plan for maintenance: Budget ongoing care costs, not just installation

Regional Price Variations

Landscaping costs vary across Wisconsin:

• Milwaukee metro: Highest prices, most competition
• Madison area: Similar to Milwaukee
• Smaller cities (Waukesha, Brookfield, Oconomowoc): 10-20% lower than metro
• Rural areas: Lower labor costs but potentially higher material delivery fees

Get Started on Your Landscaping Project

Ready to transform your outdoor space? HomeHelpersCo connects Wisconsin homeowners with qualified landscaping professionals who provide detailed quotes and quality work.

Get free landscaping quotes from trusted local pros and start planning your project today.