Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary Guide 2025: $39,150 Median
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers earn a national median salary of $39,150 per year, or about $19 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range falls between $31,150 (10th percentile) and $56,730 (90th percentile). With nearly 953,000 workers, this is a large occupation offering steady demand.
How much Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers earn
Median annual wages hit $39,150 in May 2024. The mean wage is $42,290, which works out to roughly $19.00 per hour for a full-time schedule. The bottom 10% of earners make about $31,150, while the top 10% earn up to $56,730. Experience, location, and employer type drive the differences. Workers in metropolitan areas and those with specialized skills in irrigation or horticulture tend to land at the higher end.
Employers include landscaping services firms, government agencies, schools, and large facilities like golf courses or resorts. Union membership is rare, but some public-sector workers may be covered.
Pay by state
Where you work strongly affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers is the District of Columbia, with an average annual wage of $48,790. Massachusetts follows at $48,670, then Alaska at $47,690, Washington at $46,950, and Minnesota at $46,610. These states often have higher costs of living and stronger labor protections.
At the other end, Mississippi pays the least, averaging $31,630 per year. Louisiana averages $34,870, and West Virginia averages $32,240. These lower wages often reflect regional cost differences and less union presence.
How to become Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker
The path is straightforward: most workers enter with a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is the standard, with new hires learning from experienced crew members how to operate mowers, trimmers, blowers, and other equipment. Some workers pick up skills through vocational programs at community colleges, which may offer certificates in landscaping or horticulture. Those courses cover plant identification, soil science, and pesticide safety.
A few states require a commercial pesticide applicator license if you'll be applying chemicals. That involves passing an exam. For roles like irrigation technician or arborist, additional certifications from organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals or the International Society of Arboriculture can boost pay and advancement options. Supervisory positions often require several years of experience and possibly an associate degree in landscape management.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Get hired: most training happens on the job.
- Pursue a vocational certificate or associate degree for faster advancement.
- Obtain state pesticide license if required.
- Optional: earn certifications from NALP or ISA for higher pay.
Job outlook
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker?
Entry-level workers typically earn around $31,150 per year, which is the 10th percentile. Starting pay can be lower in low-wage states and higher in high-wage states like Massachusetts or D.C.
Is landscaping a good career in 2025?
It's a stable career with about 158,200 annual openings and 3.6% projected growth. Pay is modest but can rise with experience and certifications. It's a good fit if you enjoy outdoor work and don't mind physical labor.
Do Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers need a license?
A general license isn't required, but some states require a pesticide applicator license if you handle chemicals. A driver's license is commonly needed to operate work vehicles. Voluntary certifications from NALP or ISA can lead to higher pay and supervisory roles.
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 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers data.