Wondering how much you’ll pay to landscape your yard? Here’s the quick and dirty answer: Estimate the cost of labor, materials and a portion of your overhead (which includes everything from equipment to fuel), and then throw in a bit extra for the landscaper profit. You’ll typically pay by the size of your yard, by the hour or for the specific task for which you want to hire someone.
In Florida, and specifically in locations such as Boca Raton or Palm Beach County, you can expect to pay between $4 and $12 per square foot, or $50 to $100 per hour for a 2-person crew. But it will depend on the scope of your project.
Costs of Labor: Who’s Doing the Work and for How Long
Landscapers generally post an estimate of how many hours that type of work will take to complete (planting, mowing, pruning or laying sod) and then add the difference between what they figure labor will cost, and what they wish to earn, to the total. In Florida, rates vary widely from crew to crew and based on your proximity to the action, as well as their experience level.
Example: 10-hour job at $40/hour = $400 in labor.
Material Costs: What You Put in Your Yard
The material you use heavily influences your end price. Plants, mulch, pavers, lighting, sod etc. Landscape pros solicit material quotes from suppliers to keep things accurate, and so should you, asking for a breakdown so you know where your money’s going.
Mulch: $30 to $60 per yard, depending on color o type
Mulch made of recycled rubber (sold by the bag) is more expensive, but it will last for decades
Premium pavers or lighting will quickly bump up the price
Overhead: The Other Half of Your Quote
Overhead is all the things that the landscaping company needs to have to run — trucks, insurance, equipment, gas and office man hours. That expense is baked into your price.
You might find $100 or so tacked on for that 2–3 day job.
Markup: Yes, They Are Making a Profit — and That’s O.K.
When the costs are added up, landscapers add on a markup (usually 10-20%) for their stay in business. That profit covers risks, keeps their team paid and helps deliver good service.
Factors that can influence your quote
Yard condition: Will you start with a blank slate, or does the yard need some transforming first?
Complex design: Extravagant lighting or paver patios can lengthen the project time frame and add costs.
Where you live: Cost of coverage depends on your ZIP code. Boca Raton frequently tests higher than Lake Worth.
Subcontractors: If a team brings in an additional specialist (such as a drainage expert), that costs more.
FAQ: What Homeowners Need to Know
How should I pay for landscaping?
Most companies want 50% upfront and 50% when it’s done. Bigger projects may be paid in parts. Payment is typically possible by credit card, check or bank transfer.
Do I have to tell my landscaper what my budget is?
Yes—always. If you give them your max spend, they can suggest styles and materials that’ll meet that amount. It’s not surprising and it keeps you on point.
Why is landscaping so expensive?
You are paying for a skilled work force, materials and tools that are required to do the job the right way. Florida is a tough place for a backyard as it has stands of heat, rain and sandy soil, things like French drains or Sdr35 pipe system can be needed to defend your yard.
How much do landscapers make in Florida?
In 2025, the average is $17 to $24 per hour, though in premium markets, such as Boca Raton, companies may pay more to keep top crews, according to the study.
Want an Exact Quote? Let’s Talk
At Green Image Landscaping, we give our clients clear, itemized quotes and free estimates for our services in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Wellington, and other local communities. Drainage, lighting or a total landscape makeover, we’ll help you make sense of every line on your estimate.
Give us a call or request a quote to get started.
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