The landscaping and gardening profession remains vital in Nashville, TN, where lush lawns, commercial green spaces, and residential gardens are in constant demand. Whether you’re starting a career in landscaping or aiming to boost your earnings, understanding the salary outlook for 2026 is essential. This comprehensive guide covers the average salary range, factors influencing earnings, pay by experience, job market trends, benefits, and career growth opportunities in Nashville.
📊 Average Salary Range in Nashville, TN (2026)
In 2026, landscapers and gardeners in Nashville can expect competitive pay reflective of local demand, cost of living, and skill level. According to salary data:
| Role | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaper (average) | ~$36,083/yr | ~$17/hr |
| Landscape Contractor* | ~$36,554/yr | ~$18/hr |
| Gardener (Indeed estimate) | ~$39,376/yr** | ~$18.95/hr |
| Landscape Foreman | ~$43,760/yr | N/A |
* While not exactly the same as a landscaper, landscape contractors perform similar duties and are included to provide broader context.
** Annual estimate based on typical full‑time hours at an hourly rate.
The average landscaper salary in Nashville sits around $36,000 per year, with entry‑level positions earning less and more experienced roles earning above this mark.
🤝 Factors That Influence Earnings
Several key elements affect how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Nashville:
🪴 Experience & Skill Level
Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential:
| Experience Level | Typical Pay Impact |
|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–1 yr) | ~Lower range (~$29,000–$33,000) |
| Mid‑Level (2–4 yrs) | Around average (~$36,000–$38,000) |
| Senior (5+ yrs) | Higher end (~$38,000–$42,000+) |
As you gain experience and specialized skills (like irrigation systems, design, or hardscaping), employers may offer higher pay.
📍 Job Role & Duties
General landscapers focus on mowing, planting, trimming, and basic maintenance.
Gardeners often specialize in horticulture, plant care, and detailed garden design.
Landscape foremen/supervisors earn above the average due to leadership responsibilities.
📐 Certifications & Training
While not always required, certifications such as horticulture programs, equipment safety training, or landscape design credentials can enhance your value and salary prospects.
🌱 Employer & Industry
Commercial landscaping companies, luxury residential clients, and large institutions typically offer better compensation compared to smaller or seasonal operations.
📊 Salary Breakdown by Experience
Let’s explore how earnings typically change with experience:
| Experience Tier | Expected Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level | ~$29,000–$33,000 | Learning basic skills |
| Junior Landscape Worker | ~$33,000–$36,000 | Solidifying core skills |
| Mid‑Level Landscaper | ~$36,000–$39,000 | Handling complex tasks |
| Senior / Specialist | ~$39,000–$42,500+ | Advanced skills & leadership |
This growth reflects both skill development and responsibility increases over time.
📈 Job Market Trends in Nashville
Nashville’s landscaping and gardening job market is influenced by several trends:
🌞 High Outdoor Demand
Nashville’s growing population and expanding residential neighborhoods increase demand for landscaping services year‑round.
🏢 Commercial Growth
Office parks, retail centers, and institutional properties require consistent upkeep, boosting employment opportunities in landscaping.
🌿 Seasonal Variability
Landscaping tends to be seasonal, with peak work in spring and summer. Some companies offer year‑round work, especially for maintenance crews.
🧑🌾 Specialization Growth
Specialized roles such as horticulturalists, landscape designers, and irrigation specialists are in rising demand — often with higher pay.
🌴 Benefits of Working as a Landscaper / Gardener
Landscaping and gardening jobs often offer:
Flexible schedules (full‑time, part‑time, seasonal)
Active, outdoors work — ideal if you prefer physical jobs
Transferable skills for various landscaping niches
Opportunity for self‑employment and business ownership
Career growth pathways into supervisory and design roles
🎓 Education & Certifications That Impact Salary
While formal education isn’t always required, the following can enhance earning potential:
Horticulture or Turf Management Courses
Landscape Design Certifications
Equipment Safety & Operation Certifications
Pesticide & Herbicide Handling Credentials
These qualifications signal expertise and may lead to higher pay or supervisory roles.
🌆 Salary Comparison: Nashville vs Nearby Cities
Below is a comparison to help you understand how Nashville stacks up:
| City | Average Landscaper Salary |
|---|---|
| Nashville, TN | ~$36,000/yr |
| Franklin, TN | Higher average (~$45,600/yr) |
| Gallatin, TN | ~$42,175/yr |
| Tennessee State Avg. | ~$35,520/yr |
Nashville’s landscaper pay is slightly above the Tennessee state average, but surrounding suburban areas sometimes offer higher wages due to higher local revenues or client expectations.
🛠️ Career Outlook: Growth & Opportunities
The future for landscapers and gardeners in Nashville is stable, with growth tied to:
Expansion of residential and commercial landscaping needs
Greater emphasis on sustainable and aesthetic outdoor spaces
Growth of specialized landscaping services (hardscaping, irrigation, design)
With added experience and potential certifications, professionals can advance into supervisory roles, project management, or even start their own landscaping business.
📌 Conclusion
In 2026, landscaping and gardening remain solid careers in Nashville, TN:
🌱 Average landscaper salary is around $36,083 per year with variations depending on experience and role.
📈 Specialized skills and certifications can increase earning potential.
🌆 Surrounding cities like Franklin and Gallatin often pay higher, reflecting local market dynamics.
💼 Career growth is available into management and business ownership.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, understanding these salary trends helps you plan a fulfilling, financially stable landscaping career in Nashville.