How much does a Landscape Architect make?
Landscape architects design beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. Their work involves planning parks, gardens, and other areas where people can enjoy nature. Their salary varies based on experience and education. On average, a landscape architect earns about $86,334 each year. This is a good pay for those with the right skills and experience.
Landscape architects can earn more as they gain experience. Here are some salary ranges based on experience:
- Novice: $40,000
- Entry-level: $48,671
- Early career: $57,341
- Mid-career: $66,012
- Experienced: $74,682
- Late career: $83,353
- Expert: $92,024
- Senior: $100,694
- Highly experienced: $109,365
- Very experienced: $118,035
- Top earners: $126,706 and above
What are the highest paying cities for a Landscape Architect?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $111,503
In Los Angeles, professionals design beautiful outdoor spaces. Renowned firms like Sasaki Associates seek talented designers to work on large projects. They value creativity and a strong vision for urban landscapes.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $109,623
Seattle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban design. Working here means using innovative methods to create parks and green areas. Companies like SERA Architects offer opportunities to enhance community spaces.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $109,432
Sacramento has a growing need for landscape design. Professionals here focus on sustainable practices. Firms like HNTB Corporation look for experts to work on public projects and state landmarks.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $106,388
San Diego offers a lively environment for landscape architects. Professionals here design parks, resorts, and coastal areas. Companies like DLR Group offer dynamic projects that combine nature with urban development.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $103,990
In Washington, DC, landscape architects work on iconic projects. They design parks, memorials, and federal grounds. Firms like OLIN provide opportunities to work on national projects.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $97,902
Boston is known for its historic charm and modern developments. Landscape architects here design parks and waterfronts. Companies like Sasaki Associates look for designers to enhance the city’s green spaces.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $95,868
San Francisco offers a vibrant setting for landscape architects. Professionals here focus on innovative designs. Companies like EDAW seek talent to create stunning urban environments.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $95,288
Chicago provides a mix of industrial and natural landscapes. Professionals design parks, public spaces, and riverfronts. Firms like SOM look for architects to enhance the city’s green areas.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $95,092
Rochester is a city that values green spaces. Landscape architects here focus on parks and community areas. Companies like HNTB Corporation offer projects that improve urban living.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $93,547
Salt Lake City offers stunning natural surroundings. Professionals here design parks, recreational areas, and outdoor events. Companies like AECOM seek designers to create beautiful landscapes.
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What are the best companies a Landscape Architect can work for?

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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $106,750
DAVRON LLC is a leading company in landscape architecture and urban design. They operate in several locations across the U.S., including New York, Boston, and Seattle. They offer a range of services, from residential gardens to urban parks and commercial spaces. Working here means you’ll be part of innovative projects that make communities better.
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Alta Planning + Design
Average Salary: $98,821
Alta Planning + Design is well-known for its unique approach to landscape architecture. They have offices in Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis. Their projects often focus on sustainable design and community engagement. Working with them, you’ll find opportunities to create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces.
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French & Parrello
Average Salary: $97,141
French & Parrello operates in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. They specialize in landscape architecture, urban design, and environmental planning. Their work includes parks, commercial sites, and cultural landscapes. Joining them offers the chance to work on diverse projects that impact public spaces.
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Toole Design Group
Average Salary: $93,214
Toole Design Group is based in San Francisco and Portland. They offer services in landscape architecture, urban design, and architecture. Their projects often highlight environmental stewardship and community involvement. Working here means you’ll be part of a team focused on creating inspiring and sustainable outdoor environments.
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Farnsworth Group
Average Salary: $85,000
Farnsworth Group operates in Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C. They specialize in landscape architecture and urban design. Their projects range from residential gardens to large-scale urban parks. They value creativity and collaboration, providing a dynamic work environment.
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AKS Engineering & Forestry
Average Salary: $83,350
AKS Engineering & Forestry is known for its expertise in landscape architecture and forestry. They have offices in Washington, D.C., and California. Their projects focus on sustainability and ecological planning. Joining them offers the chance to work on meaningful projects that enhance natural and urban landscapes.
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Village Green Landscapes
Average Salary: $75,000
Village Green Landscapes operates in the Boston area. They offer a variety of services, including landscape design and installation. They focus on creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces for residential and commercial clients. Working here means you’ll be part of a team dedicated to excellent craftsmanship and customer service.
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PIALA'S NURSERY & GARDEN SHOP, INC.
Average Salary: $75,000
PIALA’S NURSERY & GARDEN SHOP, INC. is based in North Carolina. They specialize in landscape design and gardening services. Their projects include both residential and commercial landscapes. They offer a friendly and supportive work environment, making it a great place for those passionate about gardening and design.
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Alderwood Landscaping, Inc.
Average Salary: $70,000
Alderwood Landscaping, Inc. operates in Washington state. They focus on landscape design, installation, and maintenance. Their projects range from residential gardens to commercial properties. Joining them provides the opportunity to work on a variety of projects in a supportive and skilled team environment.
How to earn more as a Landscape Architect?
A Landscape Architect can increase their earning potential through several strategies. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. These certifications demonstrate expertise in areas like sustainable design or irrigation systems, making a candidate more attractive to employers. Continuing education keeps skills current and relevant, which is crucial in a fast-evolving industry.
Working with a diverse range of clients can also boost income. Experience with commercial, residential, and public projects adds variety and depth to a Landscape Architect's portfolio. This diversity can lead to higher-paying contracts and increased job security. Networking with industry professionals and attending conferences can help find these varied opportunities. Experience in managing large projects or leading design teams can lead to higher salaries. These roles often require overseeing budgets, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring projects meet deadlines.
Using advanced design software can improve efficiency and quality, leading to higher pay. Proficiency in tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit can make a Landscape Architect more valuable to employers. Mastery of these tools can lead to more complex and rewarding projects. Building a strong online presence can also attract higher-paying clients. A professional website and active social media profiles showcase a Landscape Architect's work and skills, leading to more opportunities.
Here are five factors to consider:
- Specialized Certifications
- Diverse Client Experience
- Project Management Skills
- Advanced Software Proficiency
- Professional Online Presence



