How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Raleigh, NC?
Updated March 2026 · Raleigh 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: 0.95x
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Plants & trees Shrubs, perennials, ornamental trees, ground cover | $285 | $2,518 | $4,750 |
Mulch & soil Mulch, topsoil, compost, and amendments | $95 | $428 | $760 |
Sod or seed New lawn installation (sod or seed) | $190 | $1,045 | $1,900 |
Hardscaping Pavers, edging, retaining walls, stone features | $0 | $2,375 | $4,750 |
Irrigation Sprinkler system or drip irrigation install | $0 | $1,425 | $2,850 |
Grading & drainage Soil grading and drainage improvements | $190 | $808 | $1,425 |
Labor Landscape crew and design fees | $475 | $2,138 | $3,800 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,235 | $10,735 | $20,235 |
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 | $285 | $4,750 |
| Mulch & soil | $95 | $760 |
| Sod or seed | $190 | $1,900 |
| Hardscaping | $0 | $4,750 |
| Irrigation | $0 | $2,850 |
| Grading & drainage | $190 | $1,425 |
| Labor | $475 | $3,800 |
| Total | $1,235 | $20,235 |
Estimates based on local cost data. Get quotes from licensed contractors for accurate pricing.
What Drives Landscaping Cost in Raleigh?
The average cost of landscaping in Raleigh, NC is $4,750 per project. Most homeowners pay between $950 and $14,250, 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 Raleigh earn an average of $22.4/hr — 2% below the national average. Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of total project cost.
Materials in NC are subject to 7.25% sales tax, which adds to the overall project cost. For a $4,750 project, expect roughly $138 in tax on materials alone.
Raleigh issued approximately 19,200 residential building permits in 2023, putting it in the upper range 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 — Raleigh's cost index is 0.95x the national baseline
Best Time for Landscaping in Raleigh
Raleigh-Durham enjoys a moderate climate with four seasons. Spring and fall are best for exterior work. Summer humidity affects paint drying and concrete curing times.
Best Months
Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Lower demand often means better pricing and faster scheduling.
Peak Season (Higher Prices)
Jan, Jul, Aug
High demand can add 10-20% to project costs.
Monthly Weather in Raleigh
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg High | 50° | 54° | 62° | 72° | 79° | 86° | 90° | 88° | 82° | 72° | 62° | 52° |
| Avg Low | 30° | 32° | 38° | 47° | 56° | 65° | 69° | 68° | 61° | 49° | 39° | 32° |
| Rain (in) | 3.4 | 3.1 | 3.8 | 2.9 | 3.7 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 3 |
Source: Open-Meteo historical data (2024)
Licensing & Permits in NC
North Carolina requires a general contractor license for projects over $30,000. Licensed through the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
Verify a contractor's license at NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
In NC, a contractor license is required for projects over $30,000. Always verify before hiring.
How to Save Money on Landscaping
- Get at least 3 quotes from licensed contractors in Raleigh
- Schedule during off-peak months (Apr, May, Sep, 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 NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
- 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 Raleigh
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