Grounds Maintenance Workers earn $40,080 median salary: What you need to know
Grounds Maintenance Workers earn a national median salary of $40,080 per year, or about $19 per hour. The typical range runs from $31,220 at the 10th percentile to $58,450 at the 90th, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 1 million workers in the field, it’s a common occupation — but pay can vary a lot by location and experience.
How much Grounds Maintenance Workers earn
The median annual wage for Grounds Maintenance Workers is $40,080, as of May 2024 BLS data. That breaks down to roughly $19.27 per hour. Half of workers earn between the 25th percentile of $35,150 and the 75th percentile of $50,710.
Bottom earners (10th percentile) take home $31,220, while top earners (90th) make $58,450. Pay scales with skill level, region, and employer type. Government jobs often pay more than residential landscaping firms.
- Median: $40,080
- Hourly median: $19.27
- 10th percentile: $31,220
- 90th percentile: $58,450
- 25th–75th percentile: $35,150–$50,710
Pay by state
The BLS does not publish state-level data for this occupation in the current release. Generally, wages are higher in urban areas with high costs of living, like the Northeast and West Coast. Rural and Southern regions tend to offer lower pay. For example, states like California, New York, and Washington typically pay above the national median, while states like Mississippi and Arkansas fall below.
Without official state figures, check local job postings or state labor agency reports for real-world numbers. Often, unionized positions in parks or schools offer better-than-average wages.
How to become a Grounds Maintenance Worker
Most Grounds Maintenance Workers learn on the job. Formal education beyond high school is rarely required. Employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and basic physical fitness.
Specific training might include pesticide application certification, which some states mandate. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is often needed for hauling equipment. Several weeks of on-the-job training cover mowing, trimming, planting, and using power tools.
- High school diploma or GED typically required
- On-the-job training lasts a few weeks to months
- Certifications: pesticide applicator license (state-dependent), first aid/CPR, CDL for driving large vehicles
- Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in all weather
Job outlook
The BLS has not released a growth projection for Grounds Maintenance Workers for the 2024–2034 period. However, previous projections showed average growth. Demand is steady because grounds need care year-round. Replacement of workers who retire or leave the field creates job openings. Landscaping services are expected to continue as long as property owners invest in curb appeal.
Competition can be strong for positions with good benefits, like those at universities or government agencies. The large employment base—over 1 million—means thousands of openings annually.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Grounds Maintenance Worker do?
They mow lawns, trim hedges, plant flowers, remove weeds, apply fertilizers and pesticides, rake leaves, and maintain outdoor areas. May also operate equipment like tractors and leaf blowers.
Is grounds maintenance a good career?
It offers steady work with a median salary of $40,080 and no formal education required. Advancement to supervisory or specialized roles can boost earnings.
Do I need a degree to become a Grounds Maintenance Worker?
No. A high school diploma is typical, and training is provided on the job. Some states require pesticide applicator certification.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Grounds Maintenance Workers data.