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2026 Long Island Landscaping Cost Guide
- Green Horizon Landscaping & Design Writer
- Jan 2
- 16 min read
Planning to update your outdoor space this year? If you’re a homeowner in Suffolk or Nassau County, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is: “How much is landscaping going to cost me?”
The short answer is: it depends. Landscaping prices on Long Island can vary widely based on yard size, the scope of work, soil conditions, and even town-specific permit and disposal fees.
At Green Horizon Landscaping & Design, we understand the unique challenges of working on Long Island from heavy clay soil and tight property lines to higher labor costs and stricter local regulations compared to many other parts of the country.
This guide breaks down what homeowners can realistically expect to pay in 2026, so you can plan your budget with confidence and avoid surprises.
In this article, you’ll learn about:
Local Price Ranges – Typical Long Island rates for lawn mowing, sod installation, seasonal cleanups, mulch, and other common services.
The “Long Island Factor” – Why landscaping costs here are often higher than national averages.
DIY vs. Professional Work – When doing it yourself can save money and when hiring a professional is the smarter choice.
Permits & Disposal Fees – Town regulations, dumping fees, and other hidden costs many homeowners don’t account for.
Common FAQs – Clear answers to the questions we hear most often from Suffolk and Nassau County homeowners.
Why Landscaping Costs Vary on Long Island (2026 Guide)
When it comes to landscaping, not all areas are priced the same and Long Island is one of the most unique regions in the country. From local labor rates and seasonal demand to strict town regulations, several factors cause landscaping prices here to differ significantly from the national average.
If your neighbor’s quote looks different than yours, these six variables are usually why:
1. Competitive Labor Rates
Labor costs on Long Island are typically 10–20% higher than the national average due to the region’s high cost of living and insurance requirements. For 2026, a professional 2-person landscaping crew generally ranges between $60 and $110 per hour, depending on the specialized equipment required for the job.
2. Varied Soil Conditions
Your specific town dictates the amount of "prep work" needed before a single plant goes in the ground.
South Shore: Often features sandy soil that drains quickly but requires more frequent irrigation and nutrient management.
North Shore: Known for heavier clay soils and rocky terrain that retain moisture and may require advanced drainage or soil amendments like compost to prevent root rot.
3. Yard Waste & Disposal Fees
Disposing of debris is a major operating expense for Long Island contractors. For 2026, commercial disposal fees at local facilities have increased:
Brookhaven Landfill: Rates for brush and leaves are approximately $110–$120 per ton.
Smithtown & Huntington: Commercial rates are often higher, with some facilities reaching $160+ per ton for mixed yard waste. These costs are reflected in your pricing for spring/fall cleanups and large-scale removals.
4. Local Permits & Regulations
Many towns in Suffolk and Nassau County enforce strict codes for property modifications. Common 2026 permit requirements include:
Tree Removal: Often required for trees over a specific diameter (e.g., Smithtown frequently requires a $75 permit for certain removals).
Land Clearing: Islip requires a $300 Land Clearing Permit for major projects.
Retaining Walls: Most towns regulate any wall over 2–3 feet in height, requiring engineering stamps and building permits.
5. Seasonal Demand
Landscaping demand on Long Island is highly seasonal. During the peak "Spring Rush" (April–June) and "Fall Cleanup" (October–November), crew availability is limited.
Pro Tip:
Booking your 2026 projects during the "off-season" (January–March) can often secure you priority scheduling and more flexible timelines.
6. Property Size & Terrain
The layout of your land is the final major factor. A flat, ¼-acre lawn in a newer development is much faster to service than a hilly ½-acre lot with established oak trees, rock beds, and limited gate access. The more "obstacles" a property has, the more man-hours are required to complete the job safely and professionally.
Bottom Line:
Landscaping on Long Island is rarely "one-size-fits-all." Because every property from Montauk to Melville is different, we recommend a custom onsite evaluation to receive accurate pricing tailored to your property’s unique layout.
Average Landscaping Costs on Long Island (2026)
So what do Long Island homeowners actually spend on landscaping? While every project is unique, here are the average price ranges you can expect across Suffolk and Nassau County in 2026.
Overall Project Cost Range
Pro Tip:
Think of a full redesign as an investment, not an expense. A well-executed landscape overhaul can boost your home’s resale value by up to 10–12%.
Why the wide range?
Hardscape vs. Softscape: Installing a stone patio or retaining wall is much more labor-intensive (and expensive) than just planting shrubs and laying sod.
Plant Maturity: Buying "instant privacy" with 12-foot Evergreens costs significantly more than waiting for smaller 4-foot trees to grow in.
Backyard Access: If a crew can’t get a Bobcat through your side gate, everything has to be moved by hand, which adds days of manual labor to the bill.
Pro Tip:
The best way to save money here is consistency. "Rescue" cleanups for a yard that hasn't been touched in a year always cost double what a standard seasonal visit would.
What drives the cost?
Debris Volume: A yard with ten massive Oak trees requires far more man-hours for a Fall cleanup than a yard with two small Maples.
Mulch Depth: A simple "top-dress" for color is cheaper than a full bed restoration with 3 inches of premium mulch.
Disposal Fees: Dumping heavy yard waste (especially thick brush or logs) is more expensive in 2026, with local fees rising across the Island.
Pro Tip:
Don't just go for the lowest rate. A licensed and insured crew might cost more upfront, but it protects you from liability if an accident occurs on your property.
Pro Tip:
Long Island soil is often sandy near the shore and heavy in clay inland. Hiring a local expert who understands our specific drainage and salt-air issues is worth the premium.
Why is Long Island more expensive?
Logistics: We pay some of the highest commercial insurance and dumping rates in the country. Moving equipment through Dix Hills or Smithtown traffic also adds to overhead.
Peak Demand: Our "growing season" is concentrated into a few months, creating massive demand for quality crews in the Spring.
Quality of Stock: Local pros use high-end North Shore nurseries rather than "big box" store plants that often fail within the first season.
Why It Matters:
These numbers give homeowners a realistic starting point but they’re still just ranges. That’s why we always say: get a personalized quote based on your exact property.
Lawn Mowing Costs on Long Island
Lawn mowing is one of the most common landscaping services, and prices can vary depending on your property size, frequency, and the condition of your lawn. Below are average 2026 rates for Long Island homeowners.
Pro Tip:
Most Long Island homeowners save significantly by booking weekly service. One-time "on-call" mows are often priced at a premium because the grass is usually longer and takes more time to cut properly.
What Affects the Price?
Overgrowth: If the grass is over 6 inches tall, it requires a "double cut," which typically adds 50%–100% to the base price.
Obstacles: Fences, steep slopes, or tight gates that prevent the use of large riding mowers increase the manual labor time.
Frequency: Weekly visits keep the lawn manageable. Bi-weekly visits often cost more per cut because the crew has to deal with heavier clippings and extra debris.
At Green Horizon Landscaping & Design, we serve homeowners across Dix Hills, Bay Shore, Commack, and Hauppauge, offering flexible plans that keep your curb appeal high all season long.
Bottom Line:
Regular maintenance is the most cost-effective way to manage your yard. Your final price will always depend on the specific size, terrain, and cleanup needs of your property.
Spring & Fall Cleanup Costs on Long Island
Seasonal cleanups are essential for maintaining property health and curb appeal. Whether it’s clearing winter debris to let your lawn breathe or removing heavy leaf cover before the first snow, most Long Island homeowners book these services twice a year.
What’s Included in a Seasonal Cleanup?
A standard cleanup is more than just raking. Most professional crews include:
Debris Removal: Raking and removing leaves, sticks, and fallen branches.
Bed Cleaning: Clearing out dead perennials and debris from flower and garden beds.
Hauling: Loading and transporting all yard waste to a local facility.
Light Pruning: Trimming back overextended shrubs or dead growth.
Optional Add-ons: Dethatching, aeration, or seasonal edging (often priced separately).
Why Long Island Cleanups Cost More
Higher Disposal Fees: Commercial dumping fees have increased. For 2026, facilities like the Brookhaven Landfill charge approximately $110 per ton for yard waste.
Volume Matters: Long Island is known for its mature Oak and Maple trees. A property with heavy tree cover can produce 100+ bags of leaves, which significantly increases labor and disposal costs.
Town Regulations: Towns like Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown have strict rules on how debris must be bundled or bagged if it isn't being hauled away by the contractor.
Tip for Homeowners
Check your town’s Curbside Leaf Pickup Schedule. If you time your cleanup for the week before the town's pickup, you can sometimes save on hauling fees though most pros recommend hauling it away immediately to prevent the leaves from blowing back or damaging the grass.
Mulch Installation Costs on Long Island
Mulch is more than just a decorative finish it’s a vital layer of protection for your landscape. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature during Long Island’s changing seasons. For many Suffolk and Nassau County homeowners, a fresh layer of mulch is one of the most affordable and effective ways to instantly enhance curb appeal.
Example:
A typical 1/4-acre home with moderate garden beds usually requires 4 to 6 cubic yards. You can expect to pay between $400 and $900 for a professional crew to deliver, prep the beds, and install the mulch.
What Affects Your Final Price?
Bed Preparation: If your beds are full of weeds or old debris, the labor cost will increase for the "clean-out" phase.
Edging: Hand-trenching a clean, deep edge around your beds makes the mulch look professional and prevents it from spilling onto the grass.
Accessibility: Prices may be slightly higher if the crew has to wheelbarrow mulch long distances (e.g., from a front driveway to a far back corner of a property).
Pro Tip:
Don't forget the Weed Barrier. While mulch helps, adding a professional-grade landscape fabric underneath especially during a Spring install can reduce weeding by up to 90%.
Sod Installation Costs on Long Island
If you want an instant, lush lawn without the months of waiting required for seed, sod is the premier choice. On Long Island, sod is the fastest way to boost curb appeal, repair a patchy yard, or finish a new construction project with a "golf course" look.
Cost Breakdown (Per Square Foot)
On Long Island, a professional "resodding" project generally averages $2.00 – $4.00 per square foot total. Here is where that money goes:
Sod Material: $0.35 – $0.85/sq. ft. (varies by grass type).
Old Grass Removal & Disposal: $0.75 – $1.50/sq. ft. (includes labor and heavy dumping fees).
Soil Prep & Grading: $0.50 – $1.00/sq. ft. (essential for drainage and root health).
Installation Labor: $0.75 – $1.25/sq. ft. (precision cutting and rolling).
What Affects Your Sod Quote?
The "Tear-Out": If you already have a thick, weed-choked lawn, removing and hauling away several tons of old turf is a major part of the labor cost.
Grading Issues: If water currently pools near your foundation, we must regrade the area before laying sod to prevent future drainage problems.
Access: Projects where sod must be hand-carried through narrow gates or up steep slopes in towns like Smithtown or Dix Hills require more man-hours.
Pro Tip:
If you are replacing your entire lawn, ask about bundle pricing. Combining a new sod installation with a sprinkler system upgrade can often save you money on the total project while ensuring your new grass never dries out.
Tree Trimming & Removal Costs on Long Island
Trees are a defining feature of the Long Island landscape, but they require professional care to remain safe and healthy. Whether you’re trimming for curb appeal or removing a hazardous oak before storm season, here is what to expect for 2026 pricing in Suffolk and Nassau County.
Factors That Impact Tree Costs:
Proximity to Structures: If a tree is hanging over a roof or power lines, it requires "technical rigging" (lowering branches slowly with ropes), which adds significant time and cost.
Crane Requirements: For massive or unstable trees, a crane may be required. Crane rentals for a day on Long Island typically add $1,000 – $2,500 to the project cost.
Stump Grinding: Most removal quotes do not include stump grinding. Expect to add $150 – $500 per stump depending on its diameter.
Disposal: Professional tree companies include hauling and chipping in their quotes, but remember that wood disposal fees at local facilities have increased for 2026)
Pro Tip:
Don't skip the permit. In towns like Islip, fines for illegal tree removal can range from $500 to $1,000 per tree. Most professional tree services will handle the permit application for you for a small administrative fee.
Retaining Walls & Hardscaping Costs on Long Island
Hardscaping is one of the best ways to increase both the functionality and value of your landscape. From retaining walls that manage elevation to decorative stone features and patios, these upgrades are a long-term investment. Prices on Long Island vary based on material, wall height, and the specialized labor required for structural masonry.
Example:
A professional 30-foot segmental block wall (3 feet high) typically costs between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on the soil conditions, drainage requirements, and block style selected.
What Affects Hardscaping Prices?
Engineering Requirements: In most Long Island towns, any wall over 3 or 4 feet (depending on the town) requires a structural design signed and sealed by a NYS Licensed Professional Engineer (PE). This can add $500–$1,500 to your project cost.
Base Preparation: For a wall to last on Long Island, it needs a 12-inch compacted gravel base and proper drainage (weep holes and perforated pipe). Skiping this leads to wall failure during our freeze-thaw cycles.
Site Access: If we have to use smaller machinery or hand-carry blocks to a backyard in a town like Smithtown, labor costs will increase.
Other Hardscape Projects We Handle
Paver Walkways & Patios: Typically $18 – $35 per sq. ft. installed.
Decorative Garden Walls: Perfect for raised flower beds or fire pit areas.
Driveway Borders: Using Belgian block or pavers to prevent edge cracking.
Stone Drainage Beds: Functional and attractive solutions for "wet spots" in your yard.
Pro Tip:
Always choose a contractor who uses geogrid reinforcement for walls over 2 feet. This mesh binds the wall to the soil behind it, preventing the "leaning" look that many DIY walls develop after just one Long Island winter.
Irrigation System Costs on Long Island
An irrigation system is the best way to protect your landscape investment, especially during Long Island’s increasingly dry summer spells. Whether you are installing a new system or upgrading an old one, 2026 pricing depends on your property size, the number of zones, and local water authority requirements.
Standard Professional Installation Includes:
Trenching: Using a vibratory plow to minimize damage to your existing lawn.
Smart Controller: Modern systems now include Wi-Fi timers that adjust based on Long Island weather forecasts.
Backflow Preventer: A mandatory safety device that prevents irrigation water from entering your home’s drinking supply.
Heads & Valves: High-efficiency rotary heads and commercial-grade valves.
What Affects Irrigation Pricing?
Water Pressure: If your home has low water pressure (common in some older Suffolk neighborhoods), we may need to install more zones with fewer heads per zone, which increases the cost.
Soil Type: Trenching in the rocky soil of the North Shore takes longer and causes more wear on equipment than the sandy soil of the South Shore.
Backflow Testing: Most Long Island water districts (like SCWA or Massapequa Water) require an initial certification and annual testing of your backflow device by a certified professional.
Important: Long Island Watering Regulations
In 2026, water conservation is a top priority for local authorities. Almost all Nassau and Suffolk towns follow the Odd/Even Watering Policy:
Odd-numbered addresses: Water only on odd-numbered calendar days.
Even-numbered addresses: Water only on even-numbered calendar days.
Time Restrictions: Most districts prohibit watering between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to prevent water loss from evaporation.
Annual Maintenance Costs
Pro Tip:
Don't skip the Winterization. A professional blowout in October or November costs a fraction of the price of replacing a manifold or backflow device that cracked during a January deep freeze.
Permits & Disposal Fees on Long Island
What makes landscaping more expensive on Long Island compared to other regions? The answer lies in our strict town-specific permit requirements and some of the highest waste disposal fees in the country. These local costs can add hundreds and sometimes thousands to a project, particularly for tree work, grading, or structural hardscaping.
Local Rule:
Always verify requirements with your specific building department in Brookhaven, Islip, Smithtown, or Huntington before starting. For example, in Islip, a Land Clearing permit for larger projects can start at $300, while Smithtown has specific ordinances protecting mature front-yard trees.
Case Study:
The Brookhaven Landfill For the 2026 season, the Brookhaven Landfill commercial rate for brush and leaves is $110 per ton. This is a major factor in why a heavy Fall cleanup or a large sod removal project costs more here than national averages suggest.
How to Save on Fees
Timing is Everything: Coordinate your project with town leaf pickup weeks if you plan to do some of the bagging yourself.
On-Site Solutions: For large properties, consider "wood chipping" branches on-site to use as free mulch in wooded areas of your yard, saving on hauling fees.
Bundle Services: Combining your cleanup, pruning, and mulch installation into a single visit reduces "trip charges" and repeat hauling expenses.
Pro Tip:
At Green Horizon Landscaping & Design, we handle the permit research and disposal logistics for our clients. We ensure all waste is disposed of at licensed New York State facilities, protecting you from potential "illegal dumping" fines.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What’s Worth Doing Yourself?
We get it many Long Island homeowners love tackling projects themselves. In some cases, you can save money by doing the work on a weekend. However, for complex or physically demanding landscaping, hiring a professional often saves you more than just time it saves you from "re-do" costs and expensive equipment rentals.
When DIY Makes Sense
Small Flower Bed Plantings: Perfect for adding a personal touch to your front entry.
Bagged Mulch Refresh: If you only have a few small beds, grabbing 10–15 bags from a local garden center is manageable.
Light Weeding & Watering: Great for maintaining your yard between professional visits.
Minor Hedge Trimming: Keeping small, reach-height shrubs tidy.
Pro Tip:
If you enjoy the physical work and have the time, these are excellent weekend tasks. Just remember that once a project requires more than 3 cubic yards of material, the sheer weight becomes a factor for most DIYers.
When You Should Hire a Pro
Sod Installation: Professional sodding requires heavy machinery for grading and "rolling" to ensure the roots take hold. DIY sod often fails because the soil prep isn't deep enough.
Large Mulch & Soil Jobs: A professional crew can install 10 yards of mulch in the time it takes a homeowner to spread two.
Retaining Walls & Hardscaping: Structural integrity is everything. A wall that isn't pitched or drained correctly will fail during a Long Island freeze-thaw cycle.
Irrigation & Tree Work: These involve high-risk factors like underground utilities, high-pressure lines, and climbing heights that require professional insurance.
The "Pro" Advantage:
A professional crew from Green Horizon Landscaping & Design brings specialized machinery (like Dingoes, Bobcats, and commercial trenchers) that allow us to complete in 4 hours what would typically take a homeowner 3 full weekends to finish. Plus, we handle the hauling, meaning you never have to worry about disposing of heavy debris yourself.
Bottom Line: If a project requires a permit, a rental machine, or more than a ton of material, it’s usually more cost-effective (and safer) to hire a pro.
Ready for an Accurate Quote? Let’s Get Started
Because every property in Suffolk and Nassau is different from the soil type in Dix Hills to specific town regulations in Smithtown the best way to understand your actual costs is to get a personalized quote from a trusted local professional.
The Green Horizon Difference
Generic national pricing tools often miss the mark when it comes to New York. As a 5-star rated local expert, Green Horizon Landscaping & Design accounts for the specific "Long Island Factors" that others miss:
Town-Specific Codes: We handle the permit requirements for Brookhaven, Islip, and Smithtown.
Real-Time Disposal Rates: We provide up-to-date pricing on landfill and hauling fees.
Regional Soil Prep: We understand the unique needs of South Shore sand versus North Shore clay.
Full-Service Management: We handle everything from design to debris removal so you don’t have to.
Our Simple 4-Step Process
Initial Consultation: A quick call or online form to discuss your goals.
Free Site Visit: We schedule a no-obligation visit to inspect your property.
Property Walkthrough: We walk the yard with you to discuss options and potential savings.
Detailed Proposal: You receive a clear, written quote with all labor, materials, and fees included no surprise charges.luating properties and will walk you through these details during our visit.
What to Have Ready
To help us give you the most accurate number, it's helpful to know:
Approximate Yard Size: Your acreage or square footage.
Service Priorities: Mowing, a "rescue" cleanup, or a new installation?
Known Issues: Drainage problems, heavy overgrowth, or old stumps.
Property Access: Standard gates versus narrow entryways.
Get Your Free 2026 Landscaping Quote
Don't wait for the spring rush! Join the many Long Island homeowners who trust our 5-star service for reliable, transparent, and professional landscaping. We proudly serve Dix Hills, Bay Shore, Islip, Smithtown, and surrounding areas.
👉 [Request Your Free, No-Pressure Estimate]
👉 Call us today to discuss your vision: 631-209-7962
Green Horizon Landscaping & Design Your 5-Star Local Long Island Experts www.ghorizon.net/contact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does landscaping usually cost on Long Island in 2026?
Most Long Island homeowners spend between $3,300 and $13,200 for professional landscaping projects. Smaller jobs like mulch installation or basic softscaping typically range from $250 to $2,500.
Is landscaping more expensive on Long Island than other areas?
Yes, costs in the New York area are generally higher due to local labor rates, material availability, and strict municipal disposal fees for yard waste.
How often should I mow my lawn on Long Island?
During the peak growing season (mid-April to November), a weekly mowing schedule is standard to maintain health and prevent weeds. Read our full guide here.
What’s the best time of year to landscape in Long Island?
The primary landscaping season runs from mid-April through mid-November. Hardscaping (patios/walls) can often be done year-round if the ground isn't frozen, but planting is best in spring or early fall.
When is the best time to seed or overseed my lawn?
The absolute best window for seeding on Long Island is September through October. This allows roots to establish in cool soil before the winter freeze.
Can landscaping increase my home’s value?
Absolutely. High-quality curb appeal and functional outdoor living spaces like patios or "outdoor rooms" are top 2026 trends that significantly boost property resale value.
What are the biggest landscaping trends for 2026?
Current trends focus on "Climate-Smart Planting" (drought-tolerant native species) and "Edible Landscapes," where fruit trees and herbs are integrated directly into decorative garden beds.
Do I need a permit for landscaping in my town?
Permits are often required for tree removal (over 6–10 inches in diameter), retaining walls over 2–4 feet tall, or major drainage and grading work.
Are you licensed and insured in Suffolk County?
Yes, we are fully licensed and insured to protect your property and our team.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, we provide free on-site consultations and detailed project estimates for all Dix Hills NY and surrounding Long Island residents.
Do I need to be home for the service?
No. Most clients enjoy hassle-free service while away at work or managing busy schedules. We only ask that gates are unlocked and pets are kept indoors for the safety of our team.