How Much Do Landscaping Companies Charge in Fairfield County, CT?

In Fairfield County, landscaping isn’t just about keeping up appearances—it’s part of what makes a home stand out. With high property values, mature trees, and custom outdoor spaces, even simple landscaping projects deserve thoughtful design and expert care. 

So, how much do landscaping companies charge in this area? On average, between $4 and $24 per square foot, with complete projects often running from $4,000 to $20,000 or more.

At LaurelRock, we know numbers alone don’t explain the full picture. Lawn size, service type, and design complexity all affect the total cost. From routine lawn care to a square foot sprinkler system or a full custom landscape, every detail shapes the final price.

In this guide, we’re sharing what impacts landscaping costs, what to expect from a professional landscaping company like ours, and how to get the most value from your outdoor space.

Key Takeaways

• Landscaping costs vary by project, but smart planning helps you get the most value for every dollar.

• A polished landscape does more than look good. It protects your investment and adds lasting curb appeal.

• In Fairfield County, hiring experienced pros like LaurelRock means fewer surprises and standout results.

Lawn to Luxury: What Are You Paying For?

Landscaping costs aren’t random. They’re shaped by the type of work, the size of your property, and the details of your landscaping project. 

Most services fall into one of three categories: softscaping, hardscaping, and maintenance. Each plays a different role in the look and function of your outdoor space, and each impacts the total cost in a unique way.

Softscaping: Plants, sod, and all things green

Softscaping is everything living. This includes lawn seeding, new grass, native plants, flower beds, soil amendments, and mulch—yes, even the wood chips and rubber mulch that protect plant roots and help with weed control.

Pricing here is often calculated per square foot or by cubic yard of materials. If you're adding fresh sod or lawn treatments, the average landscaping costs can shift based on your lawn size and plant selection. Low-maintenance options can help save money long-term, while specialty plantings or large trees will increase your upfront investment.

Hardscaping: Structure, style, and staying power

Hardscaping brings shape and structure to your yard. Think patios, walkways, retaining walls, land grading, or even an outdoor kitchen. These projects often come with higher labor costs and specialized materials, and the work can involve detailed planning from landscape designers or landscape architects.

Because hardscaping is labor-intensive and often includes extra materials, it tends to cost significantly more per square foot than planting services. Add in necessary permits or complex job site conditions, and the total cost can rise quickly.

Maintenance: Keeping it all looking sharp

Once the landscaping work is complete, maintenance keeps everything thriving. Landscaping maintenance includes lawn mowing, lawn fertilization, pest control, weed control, tree trimming, and seasonal lawn care services.

Lawn care prices depend on your square footage, the frequency of service, and whether you're adding extras like lawn treatments or overseeding. The more features you have, the more attention your yard needs—and that adds to your monthly or seasonal landscaping prices.

Each of these service categories contributes differently to your overall cost. Some homeowners put most of their budget into the installation phase, while others focus on ongoing care with a professional landscaper. 

The key is knowing where your money is going and what makes sense for your entire project.

Let’s Talk Numbers: Average Landscaping Costs in Fairfield County

What can you expect to pay for landscaping in Fairfield County? The short answer—more than the national average. Labor costs are higher here, and with luxury homes comes higher demand for thoughtful design and polished execution.

Hourly rates

Most landscaping companies charge $50 to $100 per hour for a two-person crew. Larger teams or more complex jobs may push that rate higher, especially on job sites that involve detailed design or specialized services.

Per square foot

Basic landscaping services like lawn seeding or flower beds usually run $4 to $12 per square foot. Projects involving more design, custom plant selection, or features like retaining walls or water fountains can climb to $24 per square foot.

Full project pricing

For a complete landscaping project, expect to spend between $3,000 and $16,000 or more. The final number depends on your square footage, the level of customization, and any extras like lawn fertilization systems, an outdoor kitchen, or native plants that support local wildlife.

In Fairfield County, beautiful landscaping isn’t just about looks. It’s part of your home’s value. That’s why experienced landscapers, landscape designers, and the right materials are worth the money spent.

From Mulch to Masterpieces: What Specific Services Cost

Landscaping services vary widely in price depending on the size of your yard, the complexity of the work, and the materials used. Here’s a clear look at what you can expect to pay for some of the most common landscaping services in Fairfield County.

• Lawn mowing usually costs between $30 and $85 per visit. Prices go up for larger yards, hilly terrain, or if you’re bundling in edging or lawn treatments.

• Sod installation runs about $1 to $2 per square foot, including labor. It’s a fast way to get a green lawn, but not always the most budget-friendly for large areas.

• Tree trimming ranges from $200 to $900 per tree. Height, accessibility, and tree health all play a role in the final price.

• Sprinkler systems generally cost $1,800 to $5,200, depending on your lawn’s square footage and the system’s features. A well-designed system helps your grass grow evenly and keeps maintenance simple.

• Flower bed installation falls between $650 and $3,000. That range depends on the size of the beds, your plant choices, and soil prep.

• Patios and walkways come in around $8 to $22 per square foot. Materials like natural stone or pavers push prices higher than gravel or concrete.

• Retaining walls start around $40 per linear foot and can reach $300 or more, especially if excavation or drainage work is needed.

• Water fountains typically start at $1,500 but can go well past $8,000 for larger or more custom pieces. These add instant impact but also require more planning and labor.

• Ongoing landscaping maintenance, which may include lawn care, seasonal cleanups, lawn fertilization, and tree trimming, typically ranges from $100 to $400 per month, depending on the level of service and size of your yard.

• Mulch installation, including rubber mulch or traditional wood chips, is one of the most cost-effective upgrades. Expect to pay $15 to $65 per cubic yard delivered and spread. This is a quick way to refresh plant beds and improve curb appeal without a major investment.

• Using native plants is another smart move. These require less water, fewer treatments, and minimal upkeep, which cuts down on long-term landscaping costs and supports local wildlife.

Every landscaping project is a mix of materials, labor, and expertise. Smaller projects can still come with a higher cost per square foot because of equipment costs and setup time. Understanding the price points helps you plan with purpose and make the most of your money.

Fairfield Factors: Why Local Prices Vary

Landscaping costs in Fairfield County aren't one-size-fits-all. Several local factors influence the final price tag of your landscaping project:

Yard size and terrain

Larger properties naturally require more materials and labor. Uneven or sloped terrains may necessitate additional work, such as grading or specialized equipment, increasing the overall cost.​

Design complexity

Simple designs are more budget-friendly. However, intricate plans involving custom features or detailed layouts demand more time and expertise, which can raise landscaping prices.​

Seasonal demand

Spring and early summer are peak times for landscaping services in Fairfield County. High demand during these seasons can lead to increased prices and longer wait times.​

Material availability in Connecticut

The cost and availability of materials can fluctuate based on regional supply chains. Sourcing specific plants or materials locally might be more economical than importing them, affecting the overall cost.​

Planning your landscaping project during the off-peak seasons, like late fall or winter, can be a strategic move. Contractors often have more availability, and you might find more competitive pricing during these times.

One-Time Project or Year-Round Partnership?

Landscaping isn't always a one-time expense. In Fairfield County, the most polished properties often combine thoughtful design with consistent upkeep. Here's how the costs compare—and why many homeowners end up investing in both.

Monthly maintenance packages

Routine landscaping maintenance typically ranges from $100 to $300+ per month, depending on your lawn size, the services included, and how often your property needs attention. 

These packages often cover lawn mowing, pruning, fertilization, plant health checks, and seasonal cleanups. It's a simple way to protect your curb appeal and keep your front yard looking its best all year.

Custom design and installation

If you're starting fresh or upgrading your outdoor space, a full design and installation project usually costs between $4,000 and $20,000 or more. 

That price reflects the time, labor, and materials involved, as well as any collaboration with a landscape architect or design-build team. Features like new planting beds, custom layouts, and structural elements can raise your overall cost but also add lasting beauty and functionality to your property.

Why many homes need both

In our local area, many properties require both installation and maintenance. A stunning front yard design only delivers long-term value if it’s cared for properly. 

Whether you're planning a home improvement project for resale or simply want a space that looks good in every season, combining both services helps protect the money spent and keeps your landscaping work looking fresh.

DIY vs. Pro: Where the Real Value Lies

Thinking about rolling up your sleeves and handling your landscaping project yourself? It’s tempting, especially if you’re hoping to save money. But time, effort, and results all count toward the real cost. 

Here’s how a DIY approach stacks up against working with a professional landscaping company.

Time commitment

A landscaping project is rarely a weekend task. 

Between design, prep, materials, and labor, you're looking at 10, 20, or even 40+ hours, depending on the size of your front yard or the complexity of the work. That’s time away from your regular schedule, not to mention time spent fixing mistakes or making unexpected supply runs.

Tools and materials

Professional landscapers come equipped with everything from grading tools to planting gear, plus trucks to haul mulch, soil, or stone. DIYers often underestimate how many tools they’ll need and how much overhead costs add up, especially for equipment you might only use once.

Knowledge and results

Designing a beautiful, functional yard isn’t just about what looks good. It's also about plant health, drainage, spacing, and long-term maintenance. 

Professional landscapers and landscape architects bring years of experience and can help you avoid costly errors, like planting in the wrong spot or misjudging the slope.

Quick checklist

Ask yourself:

• Do you have at least 10–15 spare hours a week?

• Are you comfortable designing layouts and managing water flow?

• Willing to lift, haul, and spread multiple cubic yards of mulch or gravel?

If that list makes you hesitate, you’re not alone.

Why hiring pros makes sense

Hiring experienced landscapers may mean a higher upfront investment, but it often leads to better results, fewer delays, and a finished space that adds curb appeal and long-term value. 

Plus, depending on your landscaping work, some home improvement expenses may be tax deductible. When done right, professional landscaping prices reflect efficiency, know-how, and peace of mind.

Why LaurelRock Is Worth Every Penny

We’re not just landscapers. LaurelRock is Fairfield County’s premier residential landscape firm, with over 45 years of experience designing, building, and maintaining some of the area's most exceptional properties. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Award-winning design team backed by licensed landscape architects, designers, and horticulturists

• Local expertise serving Westport, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, and beyond with site-specific solutions

• Full-service capabilities from initial design and build to sustainable installations and year-round maintenance

• White-glove property care tailored to each home's needs, backed by crews who know your property inside and out

• Thoughtful, high-end landscapes inspired by New England’s natural beauty and built to support everyday living

We don’t just create landscapes—we care for them, grow them, and bring out their best in every season.

Curious what’s possible for your property? Let’s talk. Reach out to LaurelRock and start planning a space that’s beautiful, functional, and truly yours.

Conclusion

The most impressive landscapes don’t happen by accident. They’re planned with care, built with skill, and maintained with consistency.

Smart landscaping is one of the few home improvements that adds beauty, function, and long-term value all at once. Spend with intention, and your outdoor space will work harder, look better, and feel like it truly belongs to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do most landscapers charge per hour?

In Fairfield County, most landscapers charge between $50 and $100 per hour for a two-person crew. Rates can go higher for specialty work, complex job sites, or when more experienced professionals like a licensed landscape architect are involved.

How do I charge for a landscaping job?

Landscaping prices are usually based on square footage, labor hours, material costs, and project complexity. Larger or more customized jobs may also include design fees, overhead costs, and a markup on materials to cover project management.

How much should you pay a landscaper up front?

Most landscaping companies ask for a deposit of 25% to 50% before work begins, especially for design-build projects. This helps cover initial labor and materials while securing your spot on the schedule. The rest is typically paid in phases or upon completion.