How Much Does Landscaping Cost? A Guide for Upstate NY Homeowners

If you’ve ever looked around at your property and found yourself wondering, "hmmm, I wonder: how much does landscaping cost?" know this – you’re not alone. It’s one of the first questions most homeowners ask (in the Capital Region and beyond) and, truthfully, one of the hardest to answer with a single, specific number.

When we consider the Capital Region alone, giving a blanket landscaping cost seems impossible. 

Between historic Saratoga Springs properties, established Albany neighborhoods, and newer Clifton Park developments, homes across Upstate New York vary widely in size, condition, terrain, and the long-term goals.

Add in our freeze-thaw cycles, grading challenges, drainage considerations, and a shorter construction season, and it becomes clear why landscape pricing is anything but one-size-fits-all.

Still, understanding what influences the cost of landscaping (and what kind of investment makes sense for you and your home) is essential before you begin planning. This guide breaks down the key factors that affect professional landscaping costs, what typical budget ranges look like, and how to think about landscaping as a long-term investment rather than a line-item expense.

If you’re a homeowner who's casually (or seriously) exploring landscape design in the Capital Region and cities such as Saratoga Springs, Albany, and Clifton Park, this is where your answers begin.

Jump To:

Why Are Landscape Costs So Hard to Pin Down?
Key Cost Factors in a Landscape Project
Typical Budget Ranges for Common Projects in Upstate NY
What Does a Landscape Design Cost and Why Does It Matter?
How Much Should You Spend on Landscaping?
How to Budget for Your Landscape Project
The Value of Investing in High-End Landscaping
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping Costs in Upstate NY
Planning Your Landscape Investment With Confidence

Why Are Landscape Costs So Hard to Pin Down?

In all of our time as landscape design professionals, one of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is that landscaping can be priced the same way as other home improvement projects.

In reality, landscape design cost varies dramatically because no two properties (and no two visions of the perfect landscape) are alike.

In discussing this with my fellow Gallivan designer, Bryan Anderson, we agreed that there is much work to put in before getting a final price.

"Landscape installations are easy to quote. You just need a completed design with build specifications. But without a set of drawings for that specific property, you wouldn’t know what you are pricing.”

This is why landscaping estimates can vary so much from company to company early in the process. 

Without a finalized design, pricing is often based on assumptions – about materials, layout, grading, drainage, and scope – that may not reflect the final project.

In Upstate NY, we have special elements that determine prices, too. For example, our costs are further influenced by:

• Property size and topography

• Existing conditions (grade changes, retaining walls, utilities)

• Material selections suited for freeze–thaw cycles

• Labor, equipment, and seasonal timing

That’s why reputable firms avoid giving firm numbers too early without all of the need-to-know information. Transparency about cost starts with understanding the full picture of a project.

Key Cost Factors in a Landscape Project

While every project is unique, there are consistent variables that influence average landscaping cost across Capital Region properties.

Scope of the Project

Scope is the single biggest driver of cost.

“The biggest factor would be scope,” Bryan explains. "What’s involved – pools, structures, how many spaces – and existing conditions.”

A front yard refresh is very different from a full-property transformation with outdoor living areas, structures, and water features.

Existing Conditions

Like in most areas, many Upstate NY homes present hidden challenges that need to be considered for cost, like:

• Significant grade changes

• Poor drainage or clay-heavy soils

• Aging infrastructure

• Tight access for equipment

Addressing these conditions correctly protects your investment, but it also dramatically affects the pricing of a project. 

Materials & Finishes

High-end stone, custom masonry, premium plantings, and long-lasting materials designed for harsh winters will cost more upfront – but often save money long term through durability and reduced maintenance.

Labor & Equipment

Professional landscaping requires skilled labor and specialized equipment. In a region with a condensed build season, availability and scheduling matter. Cutting corners to go with a cheaper option often leads to lower quality craftsmanship and reduced longevity of your investment.

Typical Budget Ranges for Common Projects in Upstate NY

While exact numbers depend on many factors, below are some very broad ranges to help homeowners set realistic expectations.

We want to be incredibly clear before we move forward – every property and project is different. What we share below are not quotes; they're just context for averages.

Your project may cost more or less than any of these – it's always best to talk to a professional team to get an accurate quote! 

Front Yard Landscaping

Though it ranges dramatically, “curb appeal” projects can be anywhere from $10,000–$75,000+, all depending on your property and what your vision for a dream front yard landscape is.

Variables include walkways, steps, retaining walls, lighting, and plantings designed to survive Capital Region winters.

Backyard Landscaping & Outdoor Living

Backyard projects are often the largest investment, coming in at an average of $30,000–$250,000+. 

These are often more expensive because they are larger spaces that include elements of entertainment, space, and dream relaxation – features like patios, fire features, outdoor kitchens, privacy structures, and grading all influence the final cost.

Outdoor Kitchens & Specialty Features

Custom outdoor kitchens, pergolas, and built-in features typically fall between $25,000–$150,000+. Material selection and utility requirements (gas, electric, drainage) play a major role.

Pools & High-End Installations

Pool projects are tricky because they can vary widely. Pools are, without question, a higher-ticket item, so costs can be as low as under $50,000 or as high as $500,000+. 

These projects require extensive coordination, engineering, and long-term planning.

To sum it all up, Bryan adds that “budget ranges are wide depending on the type of project. Projects can range from $10K to $500K+.”

Here is a handy guide that compiles all of the numbers we reviewed above. As a reminder, these prices are not all-inclusive and are just ball park numbers - every project is different and may contain elements or materials not factored in above.

What Does a Landscape Design Cost and Why Does It Matter?

Most professional firms charge a design fee – and for good reason. Design services provide:

• A comprehensive master plan

• Accurate build specifications

• Clear scope definition

• Fewer surprises during construction

Paying upfront for design often saves money in the long run by preventing costly changes, rework, or misaligned expectations later.

At Gallivan, design is treated as a critical phase because it defines how the entire project will play out. A well-developed plan allows clients to understand their full investment, even if the project will be built in phases.

How Much Should You Spend on Landscaping?

A common rule of thumb for high-end landscaping is to invest 10–20% of your home’s value into your landscape. Why? Because this helps maximize the ROI on your investment. 

This guideline helps ensure:

• The landscape complements the home’s scale and architecture

• The investment supports long-term property value

• Outdoor spaces feel intentional and check all your specific boxes 

For Capital Region homeowners, this approach often aligns landscaping investment with resale value, lifestyle enjoyment, and long-term satisfaction.

How to Budget for Your Landscape Project

Understanding how much to spend on landscaping starts with transparency and an understanding of the full scope of the project – not just on numbers, but on priorities.

Define Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

Knowing what’s essential versus flexible helps guide scope and phasing decisions when speaking with your design team.

Prioritize Areas of Impact

Front yard curb appeal, backyard usability, or drainage solutions often deliver the greatest return early.

Request a Detailed Proposal

While you won’t receive a line-by-line cost breakdown for every material, you can expect a written scope outlining what’s included in each portion of the project.

Clear communication prevents assumptions and frustration before, during, and after a landscape project.

The Value of Investing in High-End Landscaping

A well-designed landscape delivers returns beyond aesthetics.

Professional landscaping can:

• Increase home value and curb appeal

• Create usable outdoor living spaces

• Reduce maintenance headaches

• Improve drainage and site functionality

• Help you fall in love with your property again

When designed and built correctly, landscaping becomes an extension of how you live, not just how your home looks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping Costs in Upstate NY

Why does landscaping pricing vary so much between companies?

Because scope, materials, experience, and design detail vary. Without identical designs and specifications, estimates are not truly comparable.

Is it possible to get a landscaping estimate without a design?

You can receive a rough range, but accurate pricing requires the completed drawings and specifications that come from a design fee and completing the design process.

Is paying for landscape design services worth it?

Yes. Design fees help prevent costly mistakes, ensure alignment, and provide clarity before construction begins by dialing in every detail possible - for both the homeowners and the installation crews.

How does Gallivan approach pricing transparency?

Through detailed design, clear scope definition, and ongoing communication throughout the process, Gallivan ensures each client understands exactly what they are getting for their money.

What’s the biggest budgeting misconception homeowners have?

Underestimating the scope and overestimating how much can be accomplished without proper planning is by far the most common misconception we encounter.

Beyond cost, what’s the true return on investment?

There are definitely several intangibles that come as a result of completing a landscape project: enjoyment, usability, and a landscape that works for your lifestyle are some. Some of the more tangible outcomes include reduced maintenance costs and increased property values.

Planning Your Landscape Investment With Confidence

Landscaping is one of the most personal (and impactful) investments you can make in your home. While there’s no universal answer to how much does landscaping cost, understanding the variables allows you to plan confidently and avoid surprises.

If you’re considering professional landscaping in Saratoga Springs, Albany, Clifton Park, or anywhere in the Capital Region, working with a team that values transparency, planning, and long-term thinking makes all the difference.

Ready to explore what’s possible for your home? Gallivan is here to guide you - request your consultation by filling out our form today.