How Much Does It Cost to Start a Landscaping Business?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
If you're thinking about launching a landscaping business, one of the first questions you'll likely ask is: How much does it cost to get started? Whether you're planning to offer lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation installation, tree trimming, or garden maintenance, understanding your startup costs is essential for building a profitable and sustainable business.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average costs of starting a landscaping business, what expenses to expect, and how landscaping contractor insurance from Wexford Insurance can protect your investment from day one.
Average Landscaping Startup Costs
Startup costs for a landscaping business can range from $5,000 to $50,000+, depending on the services you offer, the equipment you need, and whether you plan to hire employees.
Here’s a breakdown of typical startup expenses:
1. Landscaping Equipment – $3,000 to $20,000+
Your equipment needs will vary based on your services. Essentials include:
Lawn mowers (push or riding)
Trimmers and edgers
Leaf blowers
Shovels, rakes, and wheelbarrows
Trailers or trucks for transport
2. Business Registration and Licensing – $100 to $1,000
You’ll need to register your business and possibly obtain:
A business license
A landscaping or contractor license (varies by state)
An EIN (Employer Identification Number)
3. Insurance – $500 to $5,000+ Annually
Insurance is a must-have to protect your business from liability, property damage, and employee injuries. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in landscaping contractor insurance tailored to your needs.
You’ll need:
Workers Compensation Insurance (if hiring employees)
Commercial Property Insurance (if you have a physical location)
4. Marketing and Branding – $500 to $3,000
To attract clients, you’ll need:
A professional website
Business cards and flyers
Vehicle decals or wraps
Local SEO and Google Business Profile
Market Your Landscaping Business with Contractor Back Office
Contractor Back Office helps landscaping companies build a professional brand and streamline operations with essential marketing tools. Whether you offer lawn care, hardscaping, or irrigation services, our solutions help you attract clients and grow your business.
Services Include:
5. Software and Admin Tools – $200 to $1,500
Invest in tools to streamline operations:
Scheduling and invoicing software
Accounting tools
CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems
6. Labor Costs (Optional) – Varies
If you plan to hire help, factor in:
Hourly wages
Payroll taxes
Workers compensation insurance
Training and uniforms
Total Estimated Startup Cost Ranges
Business Type | Estimated Startup Cost |
Solo Operator (Basic Lawn Care) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
Small Team with Equipment | $15,000 – $30,000 |
Full-Service Landscaping Company | $30,000 – $50,000+ |
Tips to Reduce Startup Costs
Start small and scale as you grow
Buy used equipment in good condition
Rent specialty tools for one-off jobs
Bundle insurance policies for better rates
Focus on recurring maintenance contracts for steady income
Final Thoughts
Starting a landscaping business doesn’t have to break the bank—but it does require smart planning and protection. By understanding your startup costs and working with a specialized agency like Wexford Insurance, you can launch your business with confidence and peace of mind.
💬 Ready to protect your landscaping business?
Contact Wexford Insurance today.
