How much does a Groundskeeper make?
Groundskeepers play an important role in keeping public and private properties neat and beautiful. On average, a groundskeeper makes about $36,897 a year. This average can vary based on experience and location. Many groundskeepers start at the lower end of this scale, while those with more experience can earn more.
Factors that can influence earnings include the size of the property, the type of plants and trees, and the need for specialized equipment. Those working in urban areas or on large estates may see higher pay compared to those in rural settings or small gardens. Some groundskeepers also earn additional income by offering seasonal services like snow removal or holiday decorations. This can boost their yearly earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Groundskeeper?

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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $54,308
Working in Santa Rosa offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and warm weather. You can find job opportunities with local parks and wineries, where maintaining green spaces is key. Companies like the City of Santa Rosa and local golf courses often seek reliable staff.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,925
Seattle’s mild climate makes it a great place to keep outdoor areas looking great. Many groundskeeping jobs are available with organizations such as the City of Seattle and large residential complexes. The focus is on keeping parks and public spaces neat and attractive.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $46,864
San Jose boasts lush, green parks that need regular upkeep. Working here, you will enjoy working in tech company campuses and city parks. Well-known employers include local government and big tech firms like Google and Apple.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $46,097
Manchester offers a blend of natural beauty and seasonal changes. You will find positions with local government and large estates. City parks and public facilities often need skilled maintenance staff to keep them in top condition.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $45,096
In Boston, working as a groundskeeper means you will be part of maintaining historical and modern landscapes. The city’s parks and universities look for reliable staff. You might find roles with the City of Boston or local colleges.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,950
Portland’s vibrant and eco-friendly culture makes it a great place to work outdoors. Many positions are with city parks and eco-conscious companies. The city values green spaces, so job opportunities are plentiful.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $44,928
Fresno offers a sunny climate ideal for outdoor work. You can find jobs with the city and local farms. Maintenance of parks and residential areas is crucial, and local companies often seek skilled groundskeepers.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $44,416
Anchorage’s unique climate means groundskeepers must be ready for all seasons. Many opportunities exist with the city and private properties. You will need to handle the snow and ice of the winter months along with the lush summers.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $44,246
Boulder’s high altitude and stunning natural surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop for your work. You can find positions with local parks and universities. The town values its green spaces, so there are many opportunities to explore.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $43,827
San Francisco offers a mix of hilly terrain and urban greenery. Many jobs are with the city and tech companies. The Golden Gate Park and other green spaces need regular care, making this a great place for a career in groundskeeping.
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What are the best companies a Groundskeeper can work for?

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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $63,058
The State of Illinois offers rewarding Groundskeeper positions with a focus on maintaining state parks and facilities. These jobs are spread across various locations in Illinois.
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RR Donnelley
Average Salary: $62,150
RR Donnelley, a global leader in printing and publishing, provides Groundskeeper roles that focus on maintaining their expansive campuses. The company operates in multiple locations across the United States.
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Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
Average Salary: $57,048
This Native American tribal community offers Groundskeeper jobs that involve maintaining community lands and facilities. Positions are available in locations within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community in Arizona.
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Fresno Unified School District
Average Salary: $56,055
Fresno Unified School District provides Groundskeeper positions that focus on maintaining school grounds and facilities. This company operates in various schools and educational centers in Fresno, California.
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UC Irvine Health
Average Salary: $53,040
UC Irvine Health offers Groundskeeper jobs that involve maintaining the health center's grounds and facilities. The positions are based in Orange, California.
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City of Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $48,107
The City of Manchester, NH, provides Groundskeeper roles focused on maintaining city parks and public spaces. Positions are available in Manchester, New Hampshire.
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Poway Unified School District
Average Salary: $47,408
Poway Unified School District offers Groundskeeper positions that focus on maintaining school grounds and facilities. The jobs are located in Poway, California.
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University of Minnesota
Average Salary: $45,916
The University of Minnesota provides Groundskeeper jobs that involve maintaining university grounds and facilities. Positions are based in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Investment Property Group
Average Salary: $45,771
Investment Property Group offers Groundskeeper roles that focus on maintaining private properties. Locations vary based on the properties managed by the company.
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Oakland University
Average Salary: $45,447
Oakland University provides Groundskeeper positions that focus on maintaining university grounds and facilities. The positions are located in Rochester, Michigan.
How to earn more as a Groundskeeper?
Groundskeepers can enhance their earning potential through various strategies. Seeking out opportunities for professional development is key. Certifications and specialized training can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, obtaining a landscaping certification can make a groundskeeper more valuable to potential employers. Experience also plays a significant role. Those with more years in the field often earn higher wages due to their expertise and reliability.
Networking within the industry can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending trade shows, joining professional associations, and connecting with other groundskeepers can lead to higher-paying jobs. Additionally, those who take on supervisory roles or manage larger teams often earn more. Demonstrating leadership skills and a willingness to take on more responsibility can lead to higher earnings. Finally, seasonal work during peak times can increase income. Those who are flexible with their schedules and willing to work during busy periods can earn more.
Taking these steps can help groundskeepers earn more. By investing in education, gaining experience, networking, taking on leadership roles, and working during peak times, groundskeepers can increase their earning potential.
- Invest in education and certifications.
- Gain experience and build a strong work record.
- Network within the industry.
- Take on supervisory roles and manage teams.
- Work during peak times and be flexible with schedules.



