What Is An Appropriate Amount To Pay A Gardener In 2026?

A beautifully-kept lawn is a great way to boost curb appeal and make a welcoming first impression for guests. If you don't have time for regular garden maintenance, though, you might consider hiring a professional gardener to ensure your outdoor space looks its best. Like other home professionals, gardeners come at a price which will vary by location, task complexity, and other factors. On average, that price lands around $150 per visit — though every gardening service sets its own rates, so your experience may vary. The charge may also be a flat fee for each visit or hourly, depending on your needs.

When going through the process of hiring a professional, it helps to know the difference between a gardener vs. landscaper, so you know what to expect. Gardeners are experts in plant care and all it entails, including soil health and disease. They can determine the best layout for your garden, identify and treat pests, and complete other garden tasks. Landscapers, on the other hand, are largely focused on outdoor landscapes, including their planning, installation, and maintenance. If you intend to hire a gardener this year, knowing what you need and whether a gardener can accomplish it can help you better understand the cost. While specifics for each service vary, each visit can encompass general lawn care and maintenance, as well as cleanup after a trim.

A general price range for a visit can be $110 to $200, with $50 at the lowest end and over $1,400 for the highest. Experience is a often a prime driver of a gardener's rates. The more experience and knowledge a gardener offers, the higher their rates may be, particularly for hourly jobs. For example, a seasoned professional with over a decade in the gardening industry may charge over $80 an hour, compared to around $20 for a beginner. Because these factors are all variable, it's difficult to calculate an exact cost for hiring a gardener in 2026.

In addition to experience, the tools and skills needed for a task can influence the job's costs. The same goes for square footage and difficulty, which can increase the fee, particularly if you want them to mow, sow, or lay sod in the garden. Some of these tasks require specialized materials, like mulch and fertilizer, so that may drive up the costs. Additionally, if you have rocky or compacted soil, preparation may involve aeration and more labor-intensive work, affecting the overall price.

Visit frequency is another important consideration, as you might require only a single visit or check-ins on an ongoing basis. A gardening service may give you a reduced rate or package deal based on repeat business. Keeping all of these considerations in mind can help you make sense when hiring the right gardener for your needs. The best way to figure out an appropriate amount for your project is to research companies or specialists in your area and then discuss what you expect.