When planning a landscaping project, one of the most important things to consider is cost. And while it's common to ask how much do landscapers charge per hour, the answer varies depending on the type of property you're working with. Residential and commercial landscaping have different needs, complexities, and pricing structures.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between residential and commercial landscaping rates—and help you understand why one might cost more than the other.

If you're currently researching how much do landscapers charge per hour, we’ve got you covered in our in-depth post here: How Much Do Landscapers Charge Per Hour.

You can also explore a full range of services with Lakota Design Group, a trusted name in residential and commercial landscape design in the Bay Area.

What Sets Residential and Commercial Landscaping Apart?

At first glance, mowing a lawn or installing a planter might seem similar across properties. But residential and commercial landscaping differ in scale, design, function, and ongoing maintenance needs.

Residential Landscaping

Residential landscaping typically involves services for single-family homes or apartment complexes. Projects may include:

  • Lawn care

  • Tree trimming

  • Seasonal planting

  • Landscape lighting

  • Hardscaping

  • Turf installation

The focus is often on aesthetics and comfort. Homeowners want their yard to look beautiful and inviting while enhancing property value.

Commercial Landscaping

Commercial landscaping, on the other hand, applies to office parks, retail centers, hotels, and industrial properties. These jobs require:

  • Larger crews

  • Detailed maintenance plans

  • Irrigation systems

  • Commercial-grade lighting and fixtures

  • Property code compliance

  • Safety enhancements

Commercial projects emphasize curb appeal, customer impressions, and functionality—especially for high-traffic areas.

Hourly Rate Comparison: Residential vs. Commercial

Let’s take a closer look at how rates typically compare between the two property types.

Residential Rates

For standard services on residential properties, you can expect to pay:

  • $50 to $100 per hour for general landscaping (mowing, planting, edging)

  • $75 to $150 per hour for specialty services (lighting, hardscaping, irrigation)

  • Flat-rate options for recurring maintenance (e.g., $200–$500/month for weekly care)

Most residential jobs are smaller in scale, allowing for more flexible pricing and customization.

Commercial Rates

Commercial rates tend to be higher due to the increased scale and expectations. Pricing may include:

  • $75 to $150+ per hour for labor

  • Monthly contracts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on property size

  • Project-based fees for design/build jobs

Commercial landscapers often include liability insurance, 24/7 service support, and professional-grade equipment—all of which add to hourly costs.

Why Do Commercial Landscaping Rates Run Higher?

Here are a few reasons why commercial rates may exceed residential ones:

1. Property Size and Complexity

Commercial properties typically cover more ground. That means more lawn to mow, more irrigation lines to manage, and more features to maintain. Jobs often take longer and require a larger team to complete on time.

2. Regulatory Compliance

Businesses must meet city codes, zoning requirements, and ADA compliance when it comes to landscaping. This can involve more planning, documentation, and inspections—all of which factor into the cost.

3. More Frequent Maintenance

Commercial landscaping is all about keeping the property clean, safe, and presentable—especially in customer-facing businesses. Maintenance might be scheduled weekly or even daily depending on the site, compared to bi-weekly or monthly visits for homes.

4. After-Hours or Emergency Service

Some commercial jobs happen outside normal business hours to avoid disrupting customers or staff. Emergency storm cleanup or irrigation issues may also require fast, round-the-clock responses—something not typically needed in residential work.

Choosing the Right Landscaper for Your Property Type

Whether you’re a homeowner or a property manager, choosing the right landscaper is key to getting the best results for your investment. Here are a few tips to guide your decision:

  • Ask for references specific to your property type.

  • Request a walk-through and custom quote—avoid cookie-cutter pricing.

  • Check for proper licensing and insurance.

  • Understand the service schedule and expectations.

  • Review a detailed estimate before signing a contract.

With a company like Lakota Design Group, you get expertise in both residential and commercial landscaping, ensuring your project is handled with precision, professionalism, and care.

Are There Ways to Save?

Absolutely. Here are a few smart ways to cut costs without cutting corners:

  • Bundle services—combine maintenance, lighting, and irrigation for discounts.

  • Choose native or drought-tolerant plants to reduce upkeep.

  • Schedule during off-peak seasons for better availability and pricing.

  • Ask about long-term contracts—many landscapers offer discounts for ongoing work.

Final Thoughts

So, how much do landscapers charge per hour? The answer depends on whether you’re hiring for a residential or commercial job. Residential projects are usually more flexible and affordable, while commercial work demands higher expertise, equipment, and support—resulting in higher hourly rates.

Understanding the differences helps you choose the right service for your property type and budget. At Lakota Design Group, we offer landscape solutions tailored to both homeowners and commercial clients, with transparent pricing and expert service every step of the way.