Landscaping Cost in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a balanced market with moderate service costs, though the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham) and Charlotte are seeing price increases due to rapid growth. The state's diverse geography, from the mountains to the coast, means that local environmental factors—like humidity and salt air—can influence maintenance needs and costs.
Professional landscaping can transform your outdoor space, increasing curb appeal and property value. Costs vary widely depending on whether you need simple maintenance like mulching and trimming or a complete redesign with new plantings and hardscaping. The price is influenced by the size of the area, the maturity of the plants chosen, and the labor intensity of the design.
Estimated Cost Range
How We Calculate Estimates
Our estimates are based on national baseline pricing adjusted for your location using:
- BEA Regional Price Parities (RPP) - Adjusts for cost of living differences by state
- BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI) - Adjusts for inflation over time
Last updated: December 23, 2025
What Affects the Price of Landscaping in North Carolina
Several factors influence how much you'll pay for landscaping services in North Carolina. Understanding these cost drivers helps you budget accurately and evaluate quotes from contractors:
- Size of the project area
- Cost of plants, trees, and sod
- Hardscaping materials (pavers, stone, gravel)
- Site preparation and grading requirements
- Installation of irrigation or lighting systems
- Design and consultation fees
What's Typically Included in Landscaping Services
When you hire a landscaping professional in North Carolina, these services are generally part of a standard job:
- Labor for planting and installation
- Soil preparation and amendments
- Mulch or ground cover application
- Initial watering and care instructions
What's Usually Not Included (May Cost Extra)
Be aware that these items are typically not included in standard quotes and may require additional fees:
- Ongoing maintenance (mowing, weeding)
- Major excavation or retaining wall engineering
- Permit fees for large projects
- Utility line marking and relocation
Expert Tips for Landscaping in North Carolina
Follow these pro tips to get the best value and results for your landscaping project:
- Use native plants to reduce water and maintenance costs.
- Plan your project in phases if you have a limited budget.
- Ask for a sketch or 3D design to visualize the result before digging.
- Check if your HOA requires approval for landscaping changes.
Landscaping Tips Specific to North Carolina
Local Recommendations
- Morning watering reduces evaporation in North Carolina's heat—smart irrigation systems can help
- Always get quotes in writing with detailed scope of work before any landscaping project in North Carolina
⏰ Seasonal Timing in North Carolina
Demand varies by season in North Carolina. Off-peak scheduling often means better prices and faster service.
📋 North Carolina Regulatory Note
Check North Carolina's regulations on invasive species before planting. Some popular plants are restricted.
Complete Guide to Hiring Landscaping Services
Professional landscaping enhances curb appeal, increases property value, and creates outdoor living spaces for your family. From simple maintenance to complete redesigns, understanding landscape design principles, plant selection, and hardscape options helps you communicate your vision and evaluate proposals effectively.
Before You Hire: Preparation Checklist
Taking these steps before contacting contractors will help you get accurate quotes and avoid surprises:
- ✓Define your goals: curb appeal, privacy, entertainment space, low maintenance
- ✓Know your budget range (landscape projects can vary from $1,000 to $50,000+)
- ✓Gather inspiration photos from magazines or Pinterest
- ✓Understand your property: sun exposure, soil type, drainage patterns
- ✓Check HOA restrictions on landscaping changes
Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring
These questions help you evaluate contractors and protect yourself from poor service:
"Do you provide a design or just installation?"
Why this matters: Design services ensure cohesive results and avoid expensive mistakes
"What is your warranty on plants?"
Why this matters: Many landscapers offer 1-year warranties on plant material
"Who will be doing the actual installation work?"
Why this matters: Know if it's in-house crews or subcontractors
"Do you include irrigation in your proposal?"
Why this matters: New plants often need irrigation systems for establishment
When to Call a Professional
While some tasks can be DIY, these situations typically require professional expertise:
DIY vs. Professional: What You Can Do Yourself
Planting flowers, mulching beds, and simple garden maintenance are great DIY projects. Even some hardscaping like simple paths or small patios can be DIY. However, grading, drainage, retaining walls, and irrigation typically require professional expertise.
🚩 Red Flags: Warning Signs of Bad Contractors
Watch out for these warning signs that may indicate an unreliable or dishonest contractor:
- ✗No design phase—just wants to start digging
- ✗Can't explain plant selections and their care needs
- ✗No references from completed projects
- ✗Significantly underpriced (may use low-quality plants)
- ✗No written contract with plant and material specifications
Seasonal Timing Tips
The best time to schedule service can save you money and ensure better availability:
Best time for planting most trees and shrubs; soil is workable
Focus on maintenance; new plantings struggle in heat
Excellent for tree planting and hardscape projects; soil still warm
Planning season; many landscapers offer off-season discounts for spring work
⚡ Safety Considerations
- Call 811 before any digging to mark utility lines
- Use proper lifting techniques for heavy materials
- Wear gloves when handling soil and mulch
- Be cautious of poison ivy and other toxic plants
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes—these are the most common errors homeowners make:
- ⚠Planting without considering mature plant size
- ⚠Not accounting for sun/shade changes
- ⚠Ignoring drainage patterns
- ⚠Choosing plants not suited to your climate zone
💰 Cost-Saving Strategies
Smart ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality:
- Phase the project over multiple seasons
- Choose smaller plants (they catch up to larger ones within 2-3 years)
- Use more native plants (less maintenance and watering)
- Do your own mulching and maintenance
Understanding Service Costs in North Carolina
These economic factors influence what you'll pay for home services in North Carolina:
- Research Triangle growth driving higher costs in Raleigh-Durham area
- Charlotte metro also seeing price increases
- Rural areas remain more affordable
- Growing population increasing contractor demand
Climate & Weather Considerations
North Carolina's climate creates specific challenges and service needs:
Local Regulations & Requirements
Important regulatory considerations for North Carolina homeowners:
- General contractor licensing at state level
- Licensing requirements for most trades
- Coastal building codes stricter due to hurricane risk
- Septic regulations in many suburban and rural areas
Best Time to Hire by Service Type
Timing your service requests strategically can save money and ensure better availability:
Local Considerations for North Carolina Homeowners
Common Issues in North Carolina
These are the most frequent problems homeowners in North Carolina experience:
- AC failures during summer
- Humidity-related mold and mildew
- Foundation settling in clay soils
- Storm and wind damage
Current Market Trends in North Carolina
What's happening in the home services market in North Carolina right now:
How This Estimate is Calculated
This page shows an estimated cost range for landscaping in North Carolina, not a quote from a specific contractor.
Our methodology uses official government data to provide transparent, defensible estimates:
- National Baseline: We start with a researched baseline range for landscaping services nationwide
- Regional Adjustment: We apply BEA Regional Price Parities (RPP) to adjust for North Carolina's specific cost of living
- Inflation Adjustment: We use the BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) to ensure estimates reflect current pricing
Important: Actual prices vary by job size, access, materials, timing, and contractor. These estimates are for planning purposes only. Always get multiple local quotes before hiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does landscaping cost in North Carolina?
Landscaping costs in North Carolina typically range based on size of the project area and other factors. Our estimates adjust national baseline pricing using BEA Regional Price Parities and BLS Consumer Price Index data to reflect North Carolina's specific cost of living. The actual price you pay will depend on your specific project requirements, the contractor you choose, and current market conditions. We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from local contractors for the most accurate pricing.
Is this a quote or an estimate?
This is an estimate, not a quote. A quote is a specific price from a contractor for your particular job after they've assessed your needs. An estimate is a general range based on typical costs and regional adjustments. Our estimates help you understand what to expect before getting quotes and evaluate whether quotes you receive are reasonable. Actual prices vary by job specifics, access, materials, timing, and contractor. We strongly recommend getting multiple local quotes before making any hiring decisions.
How often is pricing updated?
We update our estimates monthly using the latest BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) data and annually when BEA releases new Regional Price Parity data. This ensures our estimates reflect current market conditions and inflation. However, local market conditions can change faster than our updates, especially in rapidly growing areas. Always verify with current quotes from contractors in your area, as local supply and demand dynamics can significantly affect pricing.
What's included in landscaping services?
Typically included: Labor for planting and installation, Soil preparation and amendments, Mulch or ground cover application, Initial watering and care instructions. Not typically included: Ongoing maintenance (mowing, weeding), Major excavation or retaining wall engineering, Permit fees for large projects, Utility line marking and relocation. However, every contractor defines their scope of work differently, so always confirm exactly what's included in any quote you receive. Ask for a detailed written breakdown to avoid surprises. Items listed as 'not included' may be available for an additional charge—ask your contractor about a comprehensive package if needed.
How do I find a reliable landscaping contractor in North Carolina?
Start by getting recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who've had similar work done recently. Check online reviews on multiple platforms (Google, Yelp, BBB, and specialized platforms) looking for patterns rather than individual reviews. Verify contractors are properly licensed and insured in North Carolina through the state licensing board. Get at least three written quotes and compare not just price, but scope of work, timeline, communication style, and warranty terms. Ask for references from recent jobs similar to yours and actually call them.
Why do contractor prices vary so much?
Price variations reflect many factors: contractor experience level and reputation, business overhead (insurance, workers' comp, office staff), quality of materials included, warranty offerings, scheduling availability, and current workload. A higher price might reflect comprehensive insurance coverage, more experienced technicians, premium materials, or a contractor with high demand due to excellent work. A very low price might indicate cut corners, lack of proper insurance, inexperience, or a contractor trying to win work during a slow period. Focus on overall value rather than just the lowest number.
What questions should I ask before hiring for landscaping?
Essential questions: Are you licensed and insured in North Carolina? (Ask for proof.) Can you provide 3 references from recent similar jobs? What exactly is included—and excluded—from this quote? How long will the job take? What is your payment schedule? What warranty do you offer on parts and labor? Will you pull necessary permits? Who will actually be doing the work? What happens if the job costs more than quoted? Get all answers in writing before work begins, and be wary of contractors who are vague or unwilling to commit to specifics.
Should I get multiple quotes?
Absolutely yes. We strongly recommend getting at least three quotes for any project over $500. Multiple quotes help you understand the market rate in your area, identify outliers (both suspiciously high and suspiciously low), and compare how different contractors approach your project. More importantly, you'll get a sense of each contractor's professionalism, communication style, and expertise. Don't automatically choose the lowest bid—consider experience, references, communication quality, and your comfort level with the contractor as well.
When is the best time to schedule landscaping in North Carolina?
The best time depends on the service type and North Carolina's climate. Generally, scheduling during a contractor's off-peak season can result in better availability, faster scheduling, and sometimes 10-20% lower prices. For landscaping, consider seasonal factors that affect demand in North Carolina. Avoid scheduling during peak seasons unless it's an emergency, as you may pay premium rates and face longer wait times. For non-urgent work, ask contractors when their slow season is and schedule accordingly.
How can I save money on this service?
Smart ways to save without sacrificing quality: Bundle multiple small jobs into one service call to share trip charges. Schedule during off-peak times when contractors are less busy and more flexible. Do your own prep work (clearing access, moving furniture, removing old fixtures) to reduce billable hours. Get multiple quotes and be willing to negotiate, especially if you can be flexible on timing. Consider whether the job can wait for a contractor's slower season. Ask about senior, military, or first-responder discounts. Pay attention to what's included—a slightly higher quote that includes cleanup may be better value.
What red flags should I watch for when hiring?
Major warning signs include: Contractors who show up uninvited (door-to-door, especially after storms); demands for large upfront payments (more than 30-50% is a red flag); pressure tactics urging immediate decisions; reluctance to provide license or insurance proof; no physical business address; unusually low bids far below competitors; vague or verbal-only contracts; requesting cash-only payment; bad reviews mentioning similar issues across multiple platforms. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, move on to another contractor.
What if something goes wrong after the job is complete?
First, contact the contractor directly with a clear description of the issue. Document problems with photos and written communication (email creates a record). Most reputable contractors will return to address issues covered by their warranty. If the contractor is unresponsive, you have options: file a complaint with your state's contractor licensing board; leave detailed reviews on multiple platforms; dispute the charge if you paid by credit card; or pursue small claims court for significant issues. This is why it's crucial to hire licensed, insured contractors and get warranties in writing before work begins.
Are your estimates accurate for my specific situation?
Our estimates provide a reliable starting range for most typical projects but may not reflect your specific circumstances. Factors that can push prices above our estimates include: unusual access challenges, high-end material selections, rush timing, complex building conditions, or work during peak demand periods. Factors that might reduce costs include: flexible scheduling, contractor promotions, or simpler-than-average job requirements. Use our estimates as a planning baseline, then get actual quotes from local contractors who can assess your specific needs.
How do permits and inspections affect cost?
Many home service projects require permits and inspections, which add both cost and time but provide important protections. Permit costs vary by location and project type—typically $50-$500 for most residential work. Permitted work is inspected to ensure code compliance, which protects your home's safety and resale value. Some contractors include permit costs in their quotes; others charge separately. Always ask about permit requirements and who will handle them. Be extremely cautious of contractors who suggest skipping permits—unpermitted work can create serious problems when selling your home or filing insurance claims.
Finding Quality Landscaping Services in North Carolina
When searching for landscaping professionals in North Carolina, it's important to do your research. Start by getting at least three quotes from different contractors to compare pricing and understand the market rate in your area. Look for contractors who are licensed and insured in North Carolina, and don't hesitate to ask for references from recent jobs.
The estimates on this page are based on North Carolina's specific cost factors, including local labor rates, material costs, and regional economic conditions. However, your actual quote may be higher or lower depending on the specific requirements of your project.
Remember that the lowest quote isn't always the best value. Consider the contractor's experience, reviews, warranty policies, and communication style when making your decision. A slightly higher price from a reputable contractor often provides better long-term value than a bargain rate from an unknown provider.
Disclaimer: Estimates vary based on job size, access, materials, timing, and contractor. This is not a guarantee of actual pricing. Always get multiple local quotes. Last updated: January 2026.