How Much Does Landscape Design Cost?

If you’ve been thinking about improving your yard but aren’t sure what kind of investment landscape design requires, you’re not alone. Cost is usually the first question homeowners ask. 

In our blog post, you’ll find straightforward pricing ranges, helpful examples, and the key factors that shape the final number.

How Designers Charge: Understanding Fee Structures

Fee Type	Typical Range / Notes
Hourly Rate	$50 – $150 per hour (common for consults, small projects, or hourly-based design)
Flat Fee / Fixed Plan	$300 – $15,000, depending on property size and design complexity; most typical residential plans under $6,000
Percentage of Project Cost	10%–20% of total budget (more common when the designer also oversees installation)
Per Square Foot (for design)	Roughly $5–$15/sf for basic-to-mid complexity; more for complex or custom designs

What You Might Pay: Typical Cost Ranges

Design Only

Scope of Work	Typical Cost Range
Simple garden or yard plan (2D layout)	$700 – $3,000
Medium-sized backyard or full-yard plan	$2,000 – $5,000
High-end/detailed master plan with 3D renderings, irrigation, lighting, and grading considerations	$4,000 – $10,000+

Design + Installation / Full Build

Costs vary more widely once materials, labor, hardscaping, and site conditions are included. Smaller updates like planting or simple patios may run a few thousand dollars, while full yard transformations with multiple features often fall in the tens of thousands.

What Drives Landscape Design Costs

• Property size and shape: Larger or irregular properties require more planning & materials. 
• Project complexity & features: Hardscape, water features, lighting, irrigation, drainage, multi-level patios, pergolas, or outdoor kitchens add significant cost. 
• Materials & finishes: Natural stone, premium pavers, mature plants, custom elements increase cost compared with basic materials. 
• Terrain, soil, and local conditions: Northern Michigan’s soils, weather, slope, and drainage needs all influence design and durability decisions.
• Designer credentials and detail level: Experienced designers or landscape architects often command higher rates, but they can save money down the line by avoiding mistakes. 
• Permits, grading, site prep, drainage: Especially if slopes or special soil conditions need addressing.  

Cost by Landscape Feature (Common Add-Ons & Typical Price Influence)

• Simple garden beds or plantings: low to modest cost
• Patios, walkways, and hardscaping:  higher, depends on material (paver, stone, concrete) 
• Retaining walls, grading, and drainage: adds design and labor cost
• Lighting, irrigation systems: moderate to significant depending on scope
• Outdoor structures (pergolas, fire pits, outdoor kitchens): high cost due to custom build, materials, and often permits 

Smart Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Design Quality

• Choose durable, region-appropriate materials rather than the most expensive options
• Phase the project by starting with core elements, then build out over time
• Opt for native or climate-suitable plantings to reduce maintenance and increase longevity
• Bundle related work (drainage, grading, hardscape) to avoid repeated site disturbance
• Work with a design/build firm to avoid miscommunication between designer and installer

Get a Quote for Your Landscape Design Project

Ready to see what your own landscape design might cost? If you’re in the greater Petoskey area, talk to the team at Nate O’Grady. 

Just share a few details about your property with our team, and we’ll provide a clear, straightforward estimate to help you plan your project with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is professional landscape design worth it?

Yes. Landscape design reduces risk of costly mistakes, improves long-term durability, and generally increases property value and aesthetic appeal. 

Can I budget in phases?

Absolutely. Many designers and firms support phased installations, which help spread out the cost and allow for flexibility. 

How do I know if I should pay hourly, flat fee, or percentage?

For small or simple projects, hourly or flat fee is often best. For larger, complex, multi-feature designs, percentage-based or flat-fee design integrated into full build often makes sense.

How long does the landscape design process usually take?

Most designs take 2–4 weeks from the initial visit to a finalized plan. Larger, more complex projects or those requiring grading, drainage, or structural planning may take a bit longer.

Do I need a full design for a small project?

Not always. Smaller updates, like refreshing a planting bed or adding a few shrubs, might only require a simple sketch or on-site recommendations. If your project includes hardscaping, drainage changes, or multiple features, a full design is well worth it.

Does the design fee apply to the installation cost?

In many cases, yes. If you move forward with installation, all or part of your design cost may be credited toward the build. This depends on the project’s size and scope.

What if I already have a design from another company?

We can install an existing plan as long as it’s detailed enough for construction. If elements are missing, like drainage notes, material choices, or plant specifications, we may recommend updating or refining the design before installation.

How much should I budget for plant materials?

Plant costs vary based on size and species. Most homeowners spend $1,000–$10,000+ on shrubs, trees, and perennials, depending on maturity, spacing, and landscape scale.

What features tend to increase project cost the most?

Hardscape elements, like patios, retaining walls, walkways, and outdoor kitchens, usually add the most. Lighting systems, grading, and irrigation can also increase pricing, depending on complexity.