Budgeting for Your Landscaping Project: What Different Price Ranges Can Get You

Starting a landscaping project is an exciting way to transform your outdoor space, but one of the most important steps is setting a clear budget. Whether you're planning to refresh your garden with a few simple updates or completely overhaul your backyard, knowing your budget upfront can ensure your design is achievable and meets your expectations.

Sharing your budget with your landscape designer at the initial meeting is key! It allows them to create a realistic plan, helping you avoid the disappointment of an out-of-reach project or overspending.

In this post, we’ll break down what different budget ranges can get you and offer tips on where to save and where to splurge for the best results.

What Your Budget Can Get You: Price Range Breakdown

Low Budget ($6,000 - $15,000)

A low-budget landscaping project focuses on essential elements like mulch, small plantings, and irrigation. There won’t be any major hardscaping features, but you can still make your yard look neat and functional. This range is great for simple garden updates and low-maintenance designs. Think drought-tolerant plants, fresh mulch, gravel pathways and a more efficient irrigation system that helps you conserve water while keeping your plants healthy.

Budget-friendly design with drought-tolerant plants, rock mulch, and boulders for lasting impact—simple, functional, and low-maintenance.

Simple, budget-friendly front yard with a gravel seating area, impactful plants, boulders for interest, and low-maintenance Korean grass ground cover—easy on the wallet and no mowing needed!

Medium Budget ($15,000 - $35,000)

With a medium budget, you can start to incorporate some hardscaping features like a basic concrete walkway or patio. You’ll also have room for added outdoor lighting to create ambiance and enhance safety. Planting designs can be more customized, with a mix of statement plants and low-maintenance varieties. This range offers a solid balance between functionality and aesthetics, allowing you to elevate your outdoor space without going overboard.

High Budget ($35,000+)

A high-budget landscaping project allows for a complete overhaul of your outdoor space. At this level, you can incorporate premium hardscaping materials like natural stone, custom outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and mature trees. A high budget opens the door for custom features and luxurious upgrades that create a unique, fully functional outdoor space. If you’re looking for a stunning transformation with long-lasting elements, this budget can get you everything you need to turn your vision into reality.

Where to Save & Splurge + The Value of a Designer

Where to Save: If you’re working with a tighter budget, start by focusing on cost-effective hardscaping options. Flagstone set in gravel for patios or pathways is a great choice, offering a natural look without the price tag of concrete. Landscape ties in gravel can also create affordable walkways.

When it comes to plants, smaller specimens are a smart way to go—you’ll get the same impact over time as they grow into bigger plants.

For finishes, we recommend running lighting wire underground so you can easily upgrade with fixtures down the road. Mulch is another budget-friendly option for ground coverage, and for small areas, rock finishes won’t break the bank.

At our Host by the Coast Project, we used chipseal and landscape ties to create a budget-friendly raised patio. If you're working with a medium budget, concrete isn't your only option—there are plenty of creative ways to design unique seating areas and walkways that bring personality and a wow factor, far beyond what concrete can offer.

Landscape ties and gravel for the win at our Cottage Garden Project—an affordable, charming alternative to concrete that adds way more character and warmth.

Where to Splurge: When it’s time to splurge, focus on the features that’ll really make your yard stand out. Mature trees add immediate shade and character, while high-quality lighting brings a whole new vibe to your space at night. Durable hardscaping materials are a solid investment that will last and keep your yard looking fresh for years. And if you're ready to go all in, features like fire pits, built-in seating, outdoor kitchens, decks, and pools are absolutely worth it. These upgrades not only elevate the look of your yard but also make it a place you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Splurging on a custom concrete address monument and cedar fence at our Casa Project instantly ups the curb appeal. These unique features add serious style and lasting value—definitely worth the investment!

Custom stonework at our Minimalist Luxe Project adds a timeless, luxurious feel—while it’s an investment, it stands the test of time and never goes out of style.

Why Your Budget is Key

Setting a clear budget upfront is crucial for creating a landscaping plan that meets your needs. It helps guide the scope of the project, ensuring everything stays realistic and achievable. With a defined budget, you can prioritize what matters most, whether it’s a unique, conversation-starting feature or functional hardscaping. Plus, sharing your budget with your designer helps avoid surprise costs and gives you guidance on where to save and where to splurge to maximize your investment.

The Value of Working with a Designer: A designer helps you get the most out of your budget. They’ll guide you on materials and design, stretching your dollars to achieve the look you want without cutting corners. They also keep the project on track, ensuring your investment is spent wisely and you get the most value for every dollar.

Ready to take your outdoor space to the next level?

It all starts with preparation. Check out our blog, Our 3 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Design Meeting (hint: knowing your budget is one of them).

Whether you're looking for a quick refresh or a full transformation, we’re here to help make sure your vision comes to life without any surprises. Browse the blog for tons of tips and inspiration, and when you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch. Let’s make your dream yard a reality!