How Much Does It Cost to Hire Landscapers?

When most people think of landscaping, they picture stunning backyards with lush gardens, rock features, water fountains, statues, or perhaps an elegant stone path winding through an oasis. And while all of that sounds like amazing, these dreamscapes can easily exceed $100,000. Clearly, not everyone is ready – or able – to invest that much into their outdoor space. But that doesn’t mean your backyard should be neglected.

Today’s landscape companies in Calgary offer a wide range of construction and maintenance services for both residential and commercial properties. Whether it’s building fences, laying concrete paths, installing patios, or handling snow removal, modern landscaping covers much more than just planting flowers.

Maybe you simply want to install a lawn. Maybe your business needs a snow removal contract. Or maybe you just need a few specific upgrades. In this article, we’ll explore the pricing for practical, everyday landscaping services – without diving into the world of luxury garden design.

What Services Are Typically Included in Landscaping Today?

Here are six of the most common and in-demand services offered by landscaping companies:

  1. Landscape Construction
    This includes essentials like paving walkways, building retaining walls, creating patios, installing drainage systems and lighting, and handling more complex design projects.

  2. Commercial & Residential Property Maintenance
    Ongoing maintenance like lawn mowing, trimming shrubs, weed removal, seasonal leaf cleanup, and plant care. Many customers today are specifically looking for low maintenance landscaping in Calgary, which keeps their yards looking great with minimal effort.

  3. Concrete Services
    Installing concrete patios, walkways, steps, driveways, and even parking areas – especially useful for commercial spaces or unpaved residential lots.

  4. Fence Building
    Installing fences made of wood, vinyl, metal, or hybrid materials. Fences provide both privacy and security. Many fence contractors in Calgary also offer custom solutions to suit different budgets and property styles.

  5. Decks & Patios
    Constructing outdoor living areas using wood, composite materials, or stone. A great upgrade for any backyard.

  6. Snow Removal
    Residential and commercial snow clearing, from driveways and walkways to full-scale parking lots, including salting and de-icing services.

Average Service Costs in 2025

Landscaping prices vary depending on the job size, materials, time of year, and location. Please note that prices change and the prices listed here are just a bulk park, rough estimate and we do not guarantee the accuracy of these prices.
Here are average price ranges for services in Alberta:

Service Price Range
Full landscaping project $15,000 to $75,000+
Residential property maintenance $150–$400/month
Commercial property maintenance $500–$3,000+/month
Concrete driveway (per sq. meter) $20–$40
Wood fence installation $50–$80 per linear meter
Deck or patio build (wood) $6,000–$25,000
Stone patio $80–$120 per sq. meter
Seasonal snow removal (residential) $500–$1,200
Snow removal (commercial property) $1,500–$10,000+ per season

 

What Affects Landscaping Costs in Canada?

Several key factors can influence the final cost of landscaping services:

  1. Project Size and Type
    Basic jobs like installing sod and a few shrubs will cost far less than a full-scale outdoor renovation with irrigation, lighting, hardscaping, and water features.
    A small yard won’t cost nearly as much as a half-acre lot.

  2. Location
    Labor and material costs are generally higher in cities like Calgary, Toronto, and Vancouver.
    Rural or suburban pricing can be lower, but delivery fees and travel costs may add up.

  3. Contractor Type
    A solo handyman may quote less, but they often don’t carry insurance or offer guarantees.
    Larger landscape firms tend to be more expensive, but they provide full-service packages, warranties, and peace of mind.

  4. Seasonality
    Spring and early summer are the busiest (and most expensive) times of year for landscaping.
    Off-season work in fall or winter can save you money, especially for prep tasks like excavation or drainage.

Budget Examples

🏡 Residential Backyard – Edmonton

  • Stone patio (20 m²): ~$2,000

  • Wood fence (30 m): ~$2,400

  • Wood deck: ~$10,000

  • Lawn and maintenance (3 months): ~$1,000

  • Snow removal (season): ~$700

  • Total: ~$16,000

🏢 Commercial Property – 1,000 m² – Calgary

  • Concrete walkways + parking area: ~$20,000

  • Landscaping + irrigation: ~$5,000

  • Seasonal maintenance (spring–fall): ~$6,000

  • Snow removal contract: ~$8,000

  • Total: ~$39,000

How to Save on Landscaping

  • Break It into Phases
    No need to drop $30K all at once. Start with essentials like lawn, drainage, and paths. Add upgrades later.

  • Get Multiple Quotes
    Always compare 3–5 estimates. Prices for the same job can differ by as much as 50%.

  • DIY Prep Work
    If you’re able, handle basic tasks like removing old grass or marking out areas yourself to cut labor costs.

  • Choose Native Plants
    Local vegetation is typically cheaper, needs less water, and is easier to maintain than imported species.

Choosing the Right Contractor

  • Confirm they have licenses and insurance

  • Read reviews on sites like HomeStars, Google, or TrustedPros

  • Compare detailed estimates – not just price but scope

  • Sign a formal contract outlining timelines, scope, and warranty

Final Thoughts

Landscaping in Canada isn’t just about curb appeal – it also includes functional upgrades like fencing, patios, snow clearing, and drainage. Whether you’re improving a home or managing a commercial space, landscape services can significantly boost property value and usability.

Typical project budgets:

  • Residential: $3,000 to $30,000

  • Commercial: $10,000 to $100,000+

No matter your budget, the right contractor can help turn your outdoor space into something beautiful, functional, and lasting.

author avatar
Ozlandscaping Team
Crafting landscapes that inspire! OZ Landscaping provides comprehensive landscaping solutions in Calgary and surrounding areas. We specialize in construction, and maintenance, turning your ideas into stunning outdoor spaces. Our team combines modern techniques with exceptional craftsmanship to bring your vision to life.