Landscaping Cost in California - 2026 Guide
⬆ California costs are 55% above the national average
Labor rate: $75–$120/hr · Highest costs in the nation. Bay Area and LA drive premium rates.
California landscaping costs are 55% above the national average. Highest costs in the nation. Bay Area and LA drive premium rates. Below you will find adjusted prices for all common landscaping services in California, plus city-by-city breakdowns for 92 California cities.
California Landscaping Prices in 2026
| Service | California Average | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Lawn & Garden Cleanup | $427/visit | $233 | $620 |
| Front Yard Landscaping | $5,038 | $2,325 | $7,750 |
| Backyard Landscaping | $23,250 | $7,750 | $38,750 |
| New Lawn Installation | $4/sq ft | $2 | $5 |
| Mulch Installation | $175/cubic yard installed | $116 | $233 |
| Sprinkler System Installation | $6,588 | $3,875 | $9,300 |
| Tree Planting | $504/tree (labor only) | $233 | $775 |
| Retaining Wall | $78/linear foot | $39 | $116 |
| Patio Installation | $22/sq ft | $12 | $31 |
| Garden Bed Installation | $16/sq ft | $8 | $23 |
| Lawn Aeration | $213/visit | $116 | $310 |
| Overseeding | $388/visit | $233 | $543 |
| Landscape Design Service | $2,713 | $775 | $4,650 |
| Weekly Lawn Maintenance | $156/visit | $78 | $233 |
Landscaping Costs by City in California
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does landscaping cost in California?
Landscaping in California is 55% above the national average. Weekly lawn maintenance costs $78–$233 per visit, and front yard landscaping runs $2,325–$7,750.
What do landscapers charge per hour in California?
Landscapers in California typically charge $75–$120/hr per hour for labor. Most residential projects are quoted as a total project price rather than hourly. Always ask for an itemised quote showing labor and materials separately.
Is landscaping more expensive in California than other states?
Yes — California is 55% above the national average for landscaping costs. Highest costs in the nation. Bay Area and LA drive premium rates.
What's the cheapest time to hire a landscaper in California?
Late winter (January–February) typically offers the best pricing in California as contractors have more availability. Spring is peak demand season with the highest prices and longest wait times. Fall is a good middle ground for both pricing and planting conditions.
Do I need a permit for landscaping in California?
Most basic landscaping (planting, mulching, lawn care) does not require a permit in California. However, projects involving retaining walls over 4 feet, irrigation systems, electrical work (lighting), or significant grading may require local building permits. Check with your city or county building department.