How much does a Groundskeeper make?
The role of a groundskeeper offers a rewarding career path for those who enjoy working outdoors. A groundskeeper’s salary can vary based on their level of experience and location. On average, a groundskeeper can expect to earn around $36,985 per year. This figure can fluctuate depending on several factors, including the size of the property they maintain and the geographic region.
For those new to the field, entry-level groundskeepers can start with an average annual salary of around $26,000. With a few years of experience, this can increase to approximately $34,045 per year. As experience grows, so do the opportunities for higher earnings. For example, a seasoned groundskeeper can earn up to $55,500 per year. This range provides a clear path for career growth and financial improvement, making it an attractive option for job seekers interested in outdoor work.
What are the highest paying cities for a Groundskeeper?

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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $51,399
In Santa Rosa, those maintaining landscapes for parks and properties enjoy a pleasant climate. Many work with local parks and resorts, ensuring gardens and grounds look their best. Companies like the City of Santa Rosa offer steady job opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $48,289
Seattle's landscapers navigate a rainy climate while keeping parks and commercial areas vibrant. Workers often partner with city maintenance teams and private landscapers to keep the city's green spaces pristine. Companies like the City of Seattle provide various job openings.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $47,833
In San Jose, groundskeepers manage a variety of landscapes from tech company campuses to city parks. The mild weather allows for year-round work. Positions are available with companies like Google and local municipal services.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $46,780
In Manchester, landscapers handle seasonal changes with skill, keeping public spaces and private properties in good condition. They work with city departments and private landscaping firms. Companies like the City of Manchester offer job stability.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $46,452
Anchorage's groundskeepers face unique challenges with its cold climate and short growing season. They maintain city parks and private properties, working with local government and private landscapers. The Municipality of Anchorage provides job opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $45,438
Portland offers groundskeepers a mild climate and diverse landscapes to maintain. They work with city parks and private properties, ensuring greenery thrives. Companies like the City of Portland offer many job openings.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $45,364
In Fresno, landscapers enjoy a warm climate and diverse work environments. They maintain parks, private properties, and agricultural areas. Positions are available with local government and private companies.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $45,139
Bakersfield's landscapers work in a hot, dry climate. They maintain parks, golf courses, and private properties. Opportunities exist with city maintenance and private landscaping firms.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $44,418
Boston's groundskeepers manage a mix of urban and historic landscapes. They work for city parks and private properties. Companies like the City of Boston offer various job opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $44,366
In Los Angeles, landscapers maintain a variety of urban and suburban landscapes. They work with city parks, private properties, and commercial properties. Opportunities exist with the City of Los Angeles and private landscaping companies.
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What are the best companies a Groundskeeper can work for?

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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $64,126
The State of Illinois offers excellent opportunities for Groundskeepers. They manage parks, highways, and other government properties. Positions are available across the state, including cities like Chicago, Springfield, and Rockford.
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UC Irvine Health
Average Salary: $53,839
UC Irvine Health provides a great environment for Groundskeepers. They maintain the campus grounds, ensuring a clean and safe space for patients and staff. This position is based in Irvine, California.
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North American Construction Group
Average Salary: $50,631
North American Construction Group hires Groundskeepers for their construction sites. They focus on keeping the work areas neat and safe. This company operates in several locations across the United States.
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City of Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $48,612
The City of Manchester offers Groundskeeper jobs that involve maintaining public parks and recreational areas. This is a great opportunity for someone living in or near Manchester, New Hampshire.
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Poway Unified School District
Average Salary: $48,601
Poway Unified School District hires Groundskeepers to maintain school grounds and campuses. This is a wonderful role for those living in or around Poway, California.
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University of Minnesota
Average Salary: $46,144
The University of Minnesota provides Groundskeeper positions focused on maintaining its beautiful campus grounds. This opportunity is located in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Investment Property Group
Average Salary: $45,937
Investment Property Group offers Groundskeeper jobs for commercial properties. They ensure properties remain well-kept. This company operates in various cities across the country.
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Heidelberg Materials
Average Salary: $45,546
Heidelberg Materials hires Groundskeepers to maintain their quarry and manufacturing sites. They focus on safety and cleanliness. This company is based in multiple states.
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Allied Residential
Average Salary: $45,269
Allied Residential offers Groundskeeper roles for maintaining apartment complexes. They ensure a pleasant environment for residents. Positions are available in various cities.
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Thrive Communities
Average Salary: $44,522
Thrive Communities provides Groundskeeper jobs for residential communities. They keep the outdoor areas clean and safe. This company operates in several locations nationwide.
How to earn more as a Groundskeeper?
Earning more as a groundskeeper involves a combination of skills, dedication, and smart choices. It pays to be proactive and take steps to improve both your expertise and your value to employers. Focusing on a few key areas can help increase your earning potential in this field.
Firstly, gaining certifications in landscaping, horticulture, or groundskeeping can make a significant difference. These certifications show employers that you have a strong understanding of the work and a commitment to your career. Secondly, developing a strong set of skills in landscaping, irrigation, and pest control can set you apart. Being able to handle these tasks well can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay.
Another important factor is gaining experience with different types of landscapes and climates. Working in various environments can make you a more versatile and valuable employee. Additionally, learning about and using the latest tools and technology in groundskeeping can improve efficiency and quality of work, potentially leading to higher earnings. Finally, networking with other professionals in the industry can open up job opportunities that may pay better.
By focusing on these areas, groundskeepers can enhance their expertise and increase their earning potential.
Below are five factors that can help you earn more:
- Certifications in landscaping or horticulture
- Skills in landscaping, irrigation, and pest control
- Experience with different landscapes and climates
- Knowledge of the latest tools and technology
- Networking with industry professionals



