How Do I Price My Landscaping Services Profitably?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
If you're starting a landscaping business or looking to grow your existing operation, one of the most important questions you'll face is: how do I price my landscaping services profitably and competitively? Whether you offer lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation, tree trimming, or garden design, pricing your services correctly can make or break your business.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping landscaping contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. But we also understand that pricing is a key part of running a successful landscaping company. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to price your services, what factors to consider, and how to protect your business while doing it.
Why Pricing Matters in Landscaping
Pricing isn’t just about covering costs—it’s about positioning your brand, attracting the right clients, and ensuring long-term profitability. Underpricing can lead to burnout and financial stress, while overpricing may push potential clients away.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pricing Landscaping Services
1. Know Your Costs
Start by calculating your direct costs:
Labor (hourly wages, payroll taxes)
Materials (mulch, plants, pavers, irrigation supplies)
Equipment usage and maintenance
Fuel and transportation
Then add your indirect costs:
Marketing and advertising
Office expenses
Insurance (like general liability, commercial auto, and equipment insurance)
Use tools like the Ultimate Landscaping Cost Calculator to estimate project costs based on square footage and material types
2. Factor in Overhead and Profit Margin
Once you know your costs, add a markup to cover overhead and profit. A typical landscaping business might aim for a 10–30% profit margin, depending on the service type and market.
3. Understand Your Market
Research what competitors in your area are charging. Pricing varies based on:
Region and climate
Residential vs. commercial clients
Service complexity (e.g., basic lawn mowing vs. custom hardscaping)
You can explore regional pricing trends in this landscaping cost by region guide
4. Choose a Pricing Model
Here are common pricing models used by landscaping contractors:
Hourly Rate: Ideal for maintenance services like mowing or trimming.
Flat Rate: Best for one-time projects like garden installations or patio builds.
Per Square Foot: Useful for services like sod installation or paving.
Tiered Packages: Offer bundled services at different price points (e.g., basic, premium, deluxe).
5. Include Insurance Costs
Don’t forget to factor in your insurance premiums. Landscaping businesses often need:
Working with a niche-focused agency like Wexford Insurance ensures you get coverage tailored to your landscaping services.
6. Communicate Value to Clients
Pricing isn’t just about numbers—it’s about value. Highlight your:
Experience and certifications
Quality of materials
Customer service
Insurance coverage (which builds trust)
Final Thoughts
Pricing landscaping services requires a balance of cost analysis, market research, and strategic planning. By understanding your expenses, choosing the right pricing model, and working with a specialized insurance agency like Wexford Insurance, you’ll be better positioned to grow a profitable and protected landscaping business.
