How Much Should You Budget for Your Landscape Project?

How Much Should You Budget for Your Landscape Project?

When planning a landscape renovation, one of the most important steps is setting a realistic budget. Having a budget in mind early on helps your design team align your vision, design, and financial goals, ensuring that everyone is working toward the same outcome from the very beginning.

A Good Rule of Thumb

For a complete landscape renovation, a helpful guideline is to budget 10–15% of your home’s value for your outdoor spaces. This is the same benchmark that many realtors and design professionals recommend.
This range allows for a balanced investment that enhances your home’s curb appeal, functionality, and resale value while keeping costs in proportion to the overall property value.

Of course, not every project requires a full renovation. Below are some typical ranges based on project size and scope.

Small Projects ($10,000–$20,000)

Perfect for refreshing a portion of your yard or creating a simple, clean outdoor space.

Includes:

• Front or back yard only

• Sod and new plantings

• Basic irrigation system

• Simple landscape lighting

• Minimal or no hardscape areas

Mid-Size Projects ($20,000–$50,000)

Ideal for homeowners wanting a cohesive upgrade that includes both softscape and small hardscape elements.

Includes:

• Front and back yard

• Sod and plants

• Small patio or hardscape area

• Landscape lighting

• Irrigation system

• Pergola or small structure

Large Projects ($50,000–$200,000+)

Best for complete outdoor transformations, custom designs, and high-end finishes.

Includes:

• Full property renovation

• Extensive hardscaping (patios, walkways, retaining walls, etc.)

• Outdoor kitchen or living area

• Custom steel or stonework

• Advanced lighting and irrigation systems

• Mature plantings and trees

• Pools, water features, or fire elements

Factors That Affect the Cost of Your Landscape Design

Every property is different, and several factors can impact the total cost of your landscape project. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations and guide design decisions that fit your budget.

• High-End Materials: Premium materials like natural stone, Corten steel, or custom pavers elevate the overall look but also increase costs compared to standard finishes.

• Artificial Turf vs. Sod: Artificial turf has a higher upfront cost but requires less maintenance and no irrigation long-term. Sod is more affordable initially but comes with ongoing water and care expenses.

• Plant Selection: Larger, mature plants instantly create a finished look but come at a premium. Smaller plants are more cost-effective and can fill in beautifully over time with proper care.

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Budget

Whether you’re investing $10,000 or $200,000, the smartest way to maximize your budget is to start with a professional design.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, budgeting for a design saves money over the course of your project. A detailed, well-thought-out plan ensures everyone’s vision is aligned from the start, reduces costly change orders and mistakes, and allows you to phase the project strategically if needed.

Working from a professional design also gives you clear pricing, material selections, and a roadmap for achieving your dream landscape — whether you complete it all at once or in stages over time.

Final Thoughts

Every landscape project is unique, and your budget should reflect your goals, style, and priorities. Partnering with an experienced design-build team ensures that your investment is handled thoughtfully from concept to completion.

At Champion Outdoor Solutions, we specialize in designing and building high-end, functional outdoor spaces throughout the Austin area. Our goal is to create a landscape that fits your vision, lifestyle, and budget — without surprises along the way.

If you’re ready to start planning your landscape design, schedule a consultation with our team today. We’d love to help you bring your outdoor vision to life.