Hiring a Landscape Architect: Prices, What to Expect & More

Planning a new landscape design is exciting, but many homeowners start with one big question: How much will hiring a landscape architect cost? Whether the goal is a simple garden design refresh or a high-end outdoor living space with water features, understanding landscape architect prices helps set realistic expectations.

At a Glance: How Much Do Landscape Architecture Prices Range?

Landscape architecture pricing varies by region, project size, and complexity. Keep in mind that the average cost of landscape designs is typically separate from installation costs, unless working with a full-service design-build firm.

National average range (design fees only)

• Low end: $500-$1,000
• Mid-range: $1,000-$1,500
• High-end and complex designs: $1,500-$5,000

Hourly rate range

• Low-end/mid-range: $75 to $150 per hour
• High-end: $150 to $250 per hour

Percentage-based fee range

• Low-end/mid-range: 5% to 15% of the total project cost
• High-end: 10% to 15%

Flat fee examples

• Small garden design or planting plan: $300-$600 flat fee
• Full property master plan: $2,500 to $10,000+ flat rate

What Do Landscape Architects Do?

A landscape architect plans functional and attractive outdoor spaces. Landscape architecture services often include the following:

• Site visit and site analysis
• Grading and drainage planning
• Hardscaping design
• Irrigation systems planning
• Native plants and xeriscaping strategies
• 3D renderings and detailed plans
• Permit coordination
• Cost estimates and construction documents

For larger landscaping projects, the landscape architect may also coordinate with a landscape contractor and oversee design work during construction.

How Much Does a Landscape Architect Cost to Hire?

Across the United States, landscape design costs vary depending on whether the homeowner wants design-only services or full-service design-builds. In most cases, the design fee makes up a small percentage of the overall cost of a new landscape.

Design-only services (national average)

• Low end: $2,000 to $5,000
• High-end and complex designs: $15,000 to $25,000+

Full-service design-build projects (national total project cost)

• Low end: $15,000 to $30,000
• Mid-range: $30,000 to $100,000
• High-end: $100,000 to $250,000+

General Cost of Landscape Designs in St. Louis, Missouri

In the St. Louis region, pricing tends to be slightly lower than in coastal markets. Actual cost estimates depend on materials, square foot coverage, and project size.

Design-only services in St. Louis

• Low end: $2,500 to $6,000
• Larger master landscape plan: $7,500 to $18,000+

Full-service design-build landscaping project cost in St. Louis

• Smaller projects: $20,000 to $40,000
• Mid-range: $40,000 to $100,000
• High-end: $100,000+

Factors Influencing Pricing of Professional Landscape Designs

Several factors influence the overall cost of a landscaping project, including the following.

Fee Structure

Landscape architects may charge for their services in several ways, including:

• Hourly rate for consultations and smaller design work
• Flat fee or flat rate for a defined design project
• Percentage-based design fee tied to total project cost

Size of Your Property

The size of your property directly impacts landscape design cost. A 2,000 sq. ft. backyard requires less planning than a 20,000 sq. ft. estate property, for example.

Complexity

Complex designs increase pricing. Examples of complex projects include yards with steep grading or projects that require running gas lines to an outdoor kitchen or fire pit.

Revisions

Most landscape design services include a set number of revisions, with additional revisions commonly increasing overall costs.

Design-Only vs Full-Service Design-Build

With design-only services, the homeowner receives a landscape plan and then hires a separate landscape contractor for installation. While design-build projects may involve larger budgets, they often result in smoother execution and fewer surprises.

Hiring the Right Landscape Architect

Choosing the right landscape architect matters just as much as understanding pricing. A qualified landscape architecture team should explain cost factors clearly and provide detailed plans before construction begins.

Specifically, when looking for a landscape architect, it pays to look for those with:

• Experience with similar landscaping projects
• Knowledge of native plants and the local climate
• Strong design portfolios
• Clear cost estimates
• Transparent design processes
• Licensed and insured professionals

What to Expect When Working with Landscape Architects

When working with the team at Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction, you can expect:

• A site visit and initial consultation
• Concept development, where we use 3D renderings to help you visualize your future space
• Clear cost estimates
• Project manager oversight during construction

Other Considerations When Hiring Landscape Design Services

Minimums

Many landscape architects have minimum project thresholds.

Typical US minimums:

• Minimum design fee: $2,500 to $5,000
• Minimum construction budgets: $15,000 to $30,000

Typical St. Louis minimums:

• Minimum design fee: $500+
• Minimum construction budget: $5,000 to $10,000

Financing & Payment Timelines

Most firms require a design deposit before design work begins. Payments are often due upon completion of the design plan, while construction payments are often tied to project phases.

Landscape Architecture Pricing FAQs

What does a landscape architect charge per hour?

Most landscape architects charge between $75 and $150 per hour, although high-end firms in larger cities may charge more.

Is $100 an hour too much to pay for landscape work in St. Louis, Missouri?

No.

A $100 hourly rate falls within the normal range for professional landscape design services in St. Louis.

What factors affect the price of hiring a landscape architect?

Project size, complexity, experience, material choices, and more can all affect the price of hiring a landscape architect.

Are landscape architect fees included as part of the overall project costs?

Landscape architect fees are sometimes included as part of overall project costs, but each company operates differently. In design-build firms, the design fee may be integrated into the total project cost. In design-only services, the design fee is typically separate from installation costs.

How much should I expect to pay for an architect?

For residential landscape architecture services, homeowners can expect to pay between $500 and $10,000+ for design work, depending on project size and complexity. Total project costs often range from $20,000 to well over $250,000 for comprehensive outdoor living upgrades.

Finding the Best Landscape Architects in St. Louis

Working with a landscape architect means investing in both your property and happiness. A well-planned new landscape can boost curb appeal, improve real estate value, and create a truly relaxing space for you to enjoy every single day.

Homeowners in St. Louis who want a seamless experience from concept to construction can work with Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction. With decades of experience designing award-winning outdoor spaces, our team focuses on creating a unique outdoor space tailored to each property.