Landscape Architect Salary 2025: $79,870 Median, How to Start & Outlook
The median landscape architect in the U.S. earns $79,870 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage hits $88,780, or about $38 an hour. The middle 80% of earners range from $54,770 at the 10th percentile to $130,190 at the 90th, meaning six-figure salaries are within reach but not typical.
This guide breaks down the real pay landscape—including which states pay the most—plus the education and licensing path to enter the field and where job growth is headed through 2034.
How much Landscape Architects earn
The BLS reports 19,600 landscape architects employed nationally as of May 2023. The median annual wage is $79,870, and half of all workers earn between roughly $55,000 and $130,000. The top 10% make more than $130,190; the bottom 10% earn less than $54,770.
Entry-level positions often start near the lower end. With experience and licensure, earnings climb. Many landscape architects work in architectural and engineering services, which pay a median above the national average. Self-employed landscape architects can have more variable income.
- Median annual wage: $79,870
- Mean annual wage: $88,780 ($38/hr)
- 10th–90th percentile range: $54,770 – $130,190
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Alabama, with an average wage of $101,220—likely due to large federal or commercial projects. California follows at $98,380, then Tennessee ($95,250), New Jersey ($95,020), and Utah ($94,430). Cost of living varies, so a dollar in Alabama goes further than in California.
At the low end, Ohio averages $63,790, Nebraska $62,170, and Arkansas $60,840. These states have less demand or more entry-level positions. If you're flexible on location, targeting high-paying states can boost your income by $30,000 or more over low-paying states.
How to become Landscape Architect
You need a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture from a program accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB). Most states then require passing the Landscape Architect Registration Exam (LARE). After licensure, many work under a senior architect for several years before leading projects.
- Earn a bachelor's in landscape architecture (accredited program).
- Complete required internship (usually 1–3 years under a licensed architect).
- Pass the LARE exam for your state license.
- Consider a master's for advanced roles or teaching (optional).
- Maintain licensure through continuing education.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 3.5% growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,700 openings each year, mostly from replacement needs. The field is small, so new jobs will be limited but steady.
Demand will be driven by climate adaptation (sea-level rise, flood management), sustainable community planning, and urban redevelopment. But competition for positions in top firms will remain keen. Candidates with GIS skills, digital rendering, and experience in ecological restoration will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a landscape architect in 2025?
The national average is $88,780; the median is $79,870. Most earn between $54,770 and $130,190.
Which state pays landscape architects the most?
Alabama tops the list at $101,220 average, followed by California ($98,380), Tennessee ($95,250), New Jersey ($95,020), and Utah ($94,430).
What qualifications do I need to become a landscape architect?
You need a bachelor's in landscape architecture from an accredited program, typically 1–3 years of internship, and a state license via the LARE exam. Continuing education keeps the license current.
What is the job growth outlook for landscape architects?
Employment is projected to grow 3.5% from 2024–2034, about average, with about 1,700 openings per year. Demand stems from environmental projects and urban redevelopment.
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 Landscape Architects data.