Landscaping costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Professional landscaping in Raleigh, NC, costs $2,947 on average, depending heavily on your yard's overall size.
Your final project total will depend on the complexity of your design and the materials chosen.
You may also need to budget for land preparation tasks like tree stump removal, costing $295 to $495.
Hiring a landscaping professional in Raleigh, NC provides reliable help with yard work and saves you time.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
Landscaping in Raleigh, NC, costs $2,947 on average, with most projects ranging from $1,255 to $4,957. Your final price depends on the size of your yard, the specific plants or hardscaping features you choose, and local labor rates. Before starting your landscaping project, understanding these costs helps you plan a beautiful outdoor space that fits your budget and enhances your home.
When planning a yard transformation in Raleigh, NC, local landscapers evaluate several key variables to determine your final bill. Factors like the size of your property, the materials you select, and the complexity of the design all play a role in shaping the overall budget.
The size of your yard directly dictates the amount of materials and labor required, making square footage a primary pricing baseline. In Raleigh, NC, a modest update costs $885 to $2,360 per 200 square feet, while overhauling a sprawling lawn requires an investment of $8,840 to $23,600 per 2,000 square feet. Heavy spring rains and muggy summers mean you need robust drainage and resilient plants, which factor into these per-square-foot rates. Overall, your total project falls between $1,255 and $4,957 per project, depending on the footprint.
| Landscaping Area Size (Square Feet) | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | $885–$2,360 | $900–$2,400 |
| 500 | $2,210–$5,900 | $2,250–$6,000 |
| 1,000 | $4,420–$11,800 | $4,500–$12,000 |
| 2,000 | $8,840–$23,600 | $9,000–$24,000 |
Upgrading your front yard focuses heavily on curb appeal, while backyard projects involve extensive outdoor living spaces that drive up the price. In Raleigh, NC, homeowners spend more on backyard retreats to enjoy the mild Southeast climate, adding patios or outdoor kitchens. Front yard updates focus on welcoming entryways and resilient foundation plantings that withstand hot, humid summers.
Starting with a blank slate on a newly constructed property requires comprehensive design and installation from the ground up, increasing the total expense. Landscapers in Raleigh, NC, must establish initial grading, drainage, and soil health before planting a single shrub. Establishing a brand-new lawn and garden beds to handle the region's heavy storm runoff requires a significant upfront investment compared to updating an existing yard.
Intricate designs with custom features demand specialized skills and extended labor hours, pushing your total bill higher. A simple garden bed refresh in Raleigh, NC, costs significantly less than engineering a multi-tiered retaining wall to manage slope erosion during hurricane season. The more complex the hardscaping and planting requirements, the closer your total climbs toward the $11,400 per project high end.
The expertise and time required to execute your design make up a substantial portion of your landscaping budget. Hiring a professional in Raleigh, NC, ensures your yard is graded properly to handle sudden ice storms and heavy flooding. Labor rates vary based on the specific skills needed, with landscape architects charging more for detailed structural planning than general crew members handling basic planting.
The quality, rarity, and volume of the physical items you choose for your yard heavily influence the final price tag. In Raleigh, NC, homeowners select durable materials to withstand the hot, muggy summers, with topsoil costing $15 to $55 per cubic yard. If you incorporate hardscaping, pavers cost $5 to $25 per square foot. Investing in high-quality materials upfront prevents premature wear from the region's intense weather patterns.
| Landscaping Material | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sod | $0.35–$0.85 per square foot | $0.35–$0.85 per square foot |
| Turf | $5–$10 per square foot | $2–$6 per square foot |
| Grass seed | $5–$10 per pound | $3–$10 per pound |
| Topsoil | $15–$55 per cubic yard | $12–$55 per cubic yard |
| Rocks or gravel | $40–$100 per cubic yard | $40–$100 per cubic yard |
| Mulch | $0.20–$0.60 per square foot | $0.20–$0.60 per square foot |
| Retaining wall blocks | $5–$40 per square foot | $3–$40 per square foot |
| Fencing | $15–$90 per linear foot | $11–$90 per linear foot |
| Pavers | $5–$25 per square foot | $1–$25 per square foot |
| Border plants | $5–$50 per plant | $2–$50 per plant |
| Pool installation materials | $19,700–$63,900 | $20,000–$65,000 |
| Patio materials | $5–$35 per square foot | $1–$35 per square foot |
The overarching style of your outdoor space determines the ratio of plants to structural elements, which shifts the budget significantly. Traditional softscaping in Raleigh, NC, costs $790 to $9,820 per project, focusing on lush greenery that thrives in the humid Southeast climate. Conversely, hardscaping projects range from $295 to $29,500 per project, as they require heavy materials like stone and concrete to build lasting outdoor living areas.
| Landscape Type | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Xeriscaping | $2,950–$23,600 | $3,000–$24,000 |
| Softscaping | $790–$9,820 | $800–$10,000 |
| Hardscaping | $295–$29,500 | $300–$30,000 |
Clearing and grading your property ensures a stable, healthy foundation for new features, adding essential preliminary costs to the project. Preparing a site in Raleigh, NC, involves tree removal, which costs $200 to $1,970 per tree depending on the size and location. Proper leveling or grading, ranging from $385 to $6,010 per project, is critical to direct stormwater away from your foundation during heavy seasonal downpours. Addressing land prep early prevents structural issues, and you manage future overgrowth by budgeting for ongoing tree trimming costs.
| Land Preparations | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tree removal | $200–$1,970 | $200–$2,000 |
| Tree stump removal | $295–$495 | $300–$500 |
| Soil testing | $690–$2,020 | $700–$2,050 |
| Land survey | $395–$740 | $400–$750 |
| Sprinkler system | $1,670–$3,490 | $1,700–$3,550 |
| Leveling or grading | $385–$6,010 | $390–$6,110 |
The specific upgrades you choose dictate the scope of work and the final price of your outdoor renovation.
Standard yard enhancements focus on planting and soil health, offering a straightforward way to boost your home's exterior appeal. In Raleigh, NC, installing a new flower bed costs $790 to $2,950 per project, providing a pop of color that thrives in the pleasant spring weather. Laying fresh sod ranges from $935 to $4,230 per project, giving you an instant, lush lawn that withstands the hot muggy summers.
| Service | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Planting xeric trees and shrubs | $25–$295 each | $25–$300 each |
| Artificial grass installation | $5–$10 per sq. ft. | $2–$8 per sq. ft. |
| Irrigation system installation | $5.50–$5.50 per sq.ft. | $2.50–$4.50 per sq.ft. |
| Rock and stone installation | $10–$25 per sq. ft. | $10–$25 per sq. ft. |
Building permanent, non-living structures requires specialized engineering and heavy materials, making these projects more expensive. Constructing a retaining wall in Raleigh, NC, costs $3,200 to $8,840 per project, which is an excellent investment to prevent soil erosion during heavy rainstorms. Adding a patio runs from $1,970 to $5,700 per project, creating a durable space to enjoy the mild Southeast evenings.
Designing a drought-tolerant yard reduces water usage and long-term upkeep, though it requires a specific set of materials upfront. While Raleigh, NC, receives plenty of rain, xeriscaping with rock and stone installation—costing $10 to $25 per square foot—helps manage drainage and reduces maintenance. Planting xeric trees and shrubs costs $25 to $295 each, offering resilient options that survive both hot summers and occasional ice storms.
Maintaining your newly designed yard requires a consistent financial commitment to keep plants healthy and structures intact.
Routine upkeep prevents overgrowth and protects your initial landscaping investment from deteriorating over time. Hiring a professional for yard cleanup in Raleigh, NC, costs $190 to $985 per service, which is helpful after severe storms or heavy fall foliage drops. Standard lawn mowing runs $50 to $250 per service, ensuring your grass stays healthy and vibrant through the humid summer months. Staying on top of yard debris also reduces the need for frequent gutter cleaning by keeping leaves away from your roofline.
| Yard Maintenance | Local Average Cost | National Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn mowing | $50–$250 per service | $50–$250 per service |
| Tree trimming | $270–$1,770 | $270–$1,800 |
| Flat rate | $50–$100 per hour | $50–$100 per hour |
| Yard cleanup | $190–$985 | $190–$1,000 |
Features that require electricity or water add recurring utility expenses to your monthly household budget. Running an irrigation system or a water feature in Raleigh, NC, increases your water bill, particularly during the peak heat of summer. Factor these utility increases into your long-term financial planning before installing complex, resource-heavy landscape designs.
Exposure to the elements inevitably causes wear and tear, requiring periodic fixes to keep your yard safe and functional. In Raleigh, NC, extreme weather events like hurricanes or ice storms cause unexpected damage to fences, patios, and retaining walls. Budgeting for structural repairs ensures your outdoor living spaces remain secure and visually appealing year after year.
Expanding your project scope to include extra services ensures a comprehensive update but increases the final bill. Homeowners in Raleigh, NC, bundle tasks to prepare their property for the changing seasons. Factoring in a lawn aeration price or scheduling pest control alongside your main project streamlines the work and protects your landscape from invasive insects during the muggy summer months.
We recommend hiring a professional in Raleigh, NC, to ensure your yard is graded properly and withstands heavy seasonal storms. A standard landscaper charges $50 to $100 per hour for basic planting and maintenance. If your project requires complex structural planning, a landscape designer costs $50 to $150 per hour, while landscape architects charge $70 to $100 per hour. Factor the local 7.25% sales tax rate into your total materials and labor budget before starting the work.
Before starting landscaping, confirm whether your project requires permits in your area and who is responsible for obtaining them. Permit requirements and costs vary by location, but most landscaping permits range from $500 to $2,750, depending on the scope of work and your local municipality.
Working without the proper permits can lead to fines, project delays, or complications when selling your home. If you're hiring a landscaping professional, review your contract to ensure they will handle the permitting process and inspections. To verify permit requirements, visit your city or county's official building department website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Hiring a landscaper in Raleigh, NC ensures your outdoor spaces remain beautiful while maximizing your property's value, saving you countless hours of strenuous labor, and keeping you safe from heavy lifting injuries.
Professionals possess extensive knowledge of native North Carolina plants and soil conditions to ensure your garden thrives year-round.
Experts bring commercial-grade mowers, aerators, and tillers to complete extensive grading or planting projects efficiently.
Local pros understand regional zoning laws and HOA guidelines, ensuring your landscape design complies with all community regulations.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently hired AR N Design Landscape to install a natural stone landscape border around my front flower beds, and the results exceeded my expectations. Alferd was professional, courteous, and highly skilled from start to finish. He took the time to listen to my ideas, offered expert...
We used Mudrock, LLC for landscaping, debris removal and landscaping services today and were very satisfied. Nicholas was prompt, professional and thorough. He demonstrated the ability to perform high-quality work with attention to detail, completing the job beyond our expectations. We highly...
Mudrock, LLCJesus and his crew provided professional and strategic service in cutting down and removing trees and overgrowth on my property. They were careful to protect grass and other landscaping. If you need professional, economical and prompt tree removal and landscape services, give Brother Bear a...
Brother Bear Tree Service and Landscaping, LLCLawn and Order Landscaping never fails to impress! The eye and attention to detail is always top notch. My turf has never looked this good and having an organically based program has done wonders, I've never been happier!
Lawn & Order LandscapingI have had a few other landscapers that did not work out. i am very pleased with Matt’s work. It was a big job and my front and side flower beds look Great. He is very professional and his pricing is fair priced. I will definitely be using him again.
Neighborhood Foodscapes & LawnI recently hired Rivera Landscaping Services to work on my lawn and concrete slab in the backyard. I was impressed with their prompt response and efficient service. After speaking with them on Thursday, they began work on Monday and completed the job by Tuesday. Not only was their pricing...
Rivera Landscape, LLCReggie has been my primary landscaper for many years. He has always been very responsive to my ad-hoc needs and reliable and cost effective with standard responsibilities like mowing, edging, chemical treatments, and annual aeration/seeding and pinestraw deployment. Reggie reconditioned...
Good Son Residential and Commercial Services has been handling all of my lawn care for the past 2 years. Derrick and his employees have great customer service. He installed a flower bed with landscaping rock that surpassed my expectations we love his work and highly recommend him.
Antonio turned our tired and unkept front yard into a welcoming and beautiful sight. My wife and I purchased a house built in the 90â s, the previous owners did little to not landscaping, and with the help of Antonio he took our front yard from a weed and dirt layden area with water drainage...
Americas Landscaping Services, LLCPerez Landscaping is an amazing company! I hired them to help cleanup my yard. They helped me come up with ideas to make my yard look amazing! They added compost sod,mulch, and a retaining wall. I loved the work they did for me. I recommend Perez Landscaping for any job!
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A yard cleanup can keep your lawn clean and prepare it for the next season. Find out the average yard cleanup cost in Raleigh, NC, and what can affect it.
Leveling your yard can help with drainage and prevent damage to your home. Learn the cost to level a yard in Raleigh, NC, and what factors can affect the price.
Just bought a plot of land and need to get it build-ready? Learn how much it costs to clear land in Raleigh, NC, to gauge your initial budget before you break ground.
In-ground pool costs in Raleigh will depend on how large the pool is and what features you include. A pro can give you a quote based on these factors.
What are average sod installation prices? Learn how much sod costs in Raleigh, NC, based on factors like square footage, land prep, land condition, and more.
Looking to build a patio in Raleigh, NC? Use this patio cost guide to get an idea of how much your exterior project will come out to.
