How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Atlanta, GA?
Updated March 2026 · Atlanta metro area · Based on BLS wage data and local market costs
Itemized Cost Breakdown
Estimated for Landscape project: 1 project · Mid-Range tier · Local cost index: 0.97x
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Plants & trees Shrubs, perennials, ornamental trees, ground cover | $291 | $2,571 | $4,850 |
Mulch & soil Mulch, topsoil, compost, and amendments | $97 | $437 | $776 |
Sod or seed New lawn installation (sod or seed) | $194 | $1,067 | $1,940 |
Hardscaping Pavers, edging, retaining walls, stone features | $0 | $2,425 | $4,850 |
Irrigation Sprinkler system or drip irrigation install | $0 | $1,455 | $2,910 |
Grading & drainage Soil grading and drainage improvements | $194 | $825 | $1,455 |
Labor Landscape crew and design fees | $485 | $2,183 | $3,880 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,261 | $10,961 | $20,661 |
Costs adjusted for local market conditions. Actual prices vary based on project specifics, contractor, and material choices.
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View itemized breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Plants & trees | $291 | $4,850 |
| Mulch & soil | $97 | $776 |
| Sod or seed | $194 | $1,940 |
| Hardscaping | $0 | $4,850 |
| Irrigation | $0 | $2,910 |
| Grading & drainage | $194 | $1,455 |
| Labor | $485 | $3,880 |
| Total | $1,261 | $20,661 |
Estimates based on local cost data. Get quotes from licensed contractors for accurate pricing.
What Drives Landscaping Cost in Atlanta?
The average cost of landscaping in Atlanta, GA is $4,850 per project. Most homeowners pay between $970 and $14,550, depending on the scope of work, materials selected, and contractor experience.
Professional landscape design and installation including plants, hardscaping, grading, and irrigation.
Local Labor Costs
Construction workers in Atlanta earn an average of $22.85/hr — right at the national average. Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of total project cost.
Materials in GA are subject to 8.90% sales tax, which adds to the overall project cost. For a $4,850 project, expect roughly $173 in tax on materials alone.
Atlanta issued approximately 28,400 residential building permits in 2023, putting it in the busiest tier of US construction markets. High permit activity can mean busier contractors and longer wait times for scheduling.
Factors That Affect Cost
- Yard size
- Design complexity
- Plant selection
- Hardscaping elements
- Irrigation needs
- Drainage requirements
- Soil conditions
- Contractor experience — Established contractors with strong reviews may charge 10-20% more
- Local cost of living — Atlanta's cost index is 0.97x the national baseline
Best Time for Landscaping in Atlanta
Atlanta has hot, humid summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are ideal for construction. Winter rarely gets cold enough to stop work entirely, making Atlanta a strong year-round market.
Best Months
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Lower demand often means better pricing and faster scheduling.
Peak Season (Higher Prices)
Jul, Aug
High demand can add 10-20% to project costs.
Monthly Weather in Atlanta
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg High | 52° | 57° | 65° | 73° | 81° | 87° | 90° | 89° | 83° | 73° | 63° | 54° |
| Avg Low | 33° | 36° | 43° | 51° | 60° | 68° | 71° | 71° | 65° | 53° | 43° | 36° |
| Rain (in) | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 3.4 | 3.6 | 3.9 | 5.2 | 3.7 | 3.5 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 3.9 |
Source: Open-Meteo historical data (2024)
Licensing & Permits in GA
Georgia requires residential and general contractor licensing for projects over $2,500. Licensed through the Secretary of State's office. Specialty trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) require separate licenses.
Verify a contractor's license at Georgia Secretary of State - Professional Licensing Board.
In GA, a contractor license is required for projects over $2,500. Always verify before hiring.
How to Save Money on Landscaping
- Get at least 3 quotes from licensed contractors in Atlanta
- Schedule during off-peak months (Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov) for lower prices
- Clarify permit costs upfront — they vary by jurisdiction
- Consider mid-range materials for the best value-to-quality ratio
- Verify contractor licensing through Georgia Secretary of State - Professional Licensing Board
- Ask about material package deals or contractor supplier discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does basic landscaping cost?
What is the cheapest landscaping option?
Does landscaping increase home value?
Landscaping Cost in Other Cities
Other Costs in Atlanta
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