As the demand for outdoor maintenance, beautification, and green space care grows, landscapers and gardeners play a vital role in Washington, DC. Whether you’re considering this career or looking to negotiate better pay, understanding the salary landscape in 2026 — including how experience, job type, and local trends influence earnings — will help you plan confidently. Below is a comprehensive, user‑friendly look at what landscapers and gardeners can expect to earn in the nation’s capital.
🌿 Average Salary for Landscapers & Gardeners in Washington, DC
In the Washington, DC area, salaries for landscaping and gardening roles vary significantly based on job title, duties, and experience. Here’s a snapshot of typical earnings:
| Role | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Wage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landscaper & Groundskeeper (general) | ~$43,161 | ~$21/hr | Average for landscaper/gardener roles in DC area |
| Landscape Laborer | ~$42,803 | ~$21/hr | Entry to mid‑level outdoor work |
| Groundskeeper | ~$42,192 | ~$20/hr | Grounds care & maintenance |
| Senior Groundskeeper | ~$47,634 | ~$23/hr | Experienced grounds role |
| Gardener (Indeed estimate) | ~$48,423* | ~$23.29/hr | Based on reported wages, potential high range up to ~$36.95/hr |
*Gardener pay includes a wide range and reflects job postings data with higher high‑end rates.
Average DC Pay vs National
Across the U.S., the typical landscaper and groundskeeper salary averages around $37,953 annually (~$18/hr). In contrast, Washington, DC’s median is higher, reflecting a higher cost of living and often greater demand for skilled workers.
📈 Salary by Experience Level
Experience and skill depth significantly influence earnings:
| Experience Level | Expected Salary Range | Typical Role Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level / Laborer | ~$38,000 – $42,000+ | Landscape Laborer, Assistant Gardener |
| Mid‑Level | ~$42,000 – $47,000 | Groundskeeper, Gardener |
| Senior / Specialized | ~$47,000 – $55,000+ | Senior Groundskeeper, Experienced Gardener |
💡 Senior roles — especially those involving supervision, specialized plant care, irrigation expertise, or larger estate management — typically command higher wages.
🌱 Key Factors That Influence Earnings
Several variables shape how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Washington, DC:
1. Type of Employer
Private landscaping firms may offer structured pay scales and benefits.
Government or institutional roles (e.g., parks, universities) often provide stable income and paid leave.
Residential contracts may pay hourly or per project, sometimes with tips or seasonal bonuses.
2. Level of Skill & Specialization
Skills like irrigation system expertise, plant care certification, and hardscape installation often correlate with higher wages.
Equipment operation (e.g., mowers, trimmers) proficiency can demonstrate added value.
3. Certifications & Training
While formal education isn’t always required, many workers choose:
Landscape Industry Certified (CLT or ornamental technician)
Horticultural or plant health credentials
OSHA safety training for equipment
These can improve job prospects and sometimes pay. Employers often favor candidates with proven competence and safety awareness.
4. Seasonality & Weather
Outdoor work demand ebbs and flows with seasons. Peak landscaping periods (spring–fall) may bring more hours or overtime.
🌆 Washington, DC vs Nearby Cities
Here’s how DC compares to surrounding metro area for similar roles:
| City / Area | Estimated Avg. Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Washington, DC | ~$42,000–$48,000 | Competitive area pay |
| Baltimore, MD | Slightly lower on average | Typically neighboring market trends |
| Arlington, VA | Similar to DC levels | Often comparable cost of living |
| Alexandria, VA | Slightly higher in certain roles | Due to proximity to DC demands |
Washington, DC generally offers competitive landscaping salaries relative to adjacent metro localities—especially for experienced or certified workers.
🌿 Job Market Trends & 2026 Outlook
Demand for landscaping and gardening work in DC remains steady to growing, driven by:
Urban landscaping projects, public parks, and municipal grounds care.
Residential property maintenance as homeowners invest more in outdoor spaces.
Commercial & institutional groundskeeping at offices, campuses, and government facilities.
While automation can enhance efficiency, the hands‑on nature of gardening and landscaping — especially tasks involving creativity, plant health, and intricate maintenance — continues to require human expertise.
🌟 Benefits of Being a Landscaper / Gardener
Aside from salary, this career offers additional benefits:
🌞 Outdoor work and physical activity
📅 Flexible roles — seasonal, part‑time, or full‑time opportunities
💼 Entry‑level accessibility — low barriers to start
👩🌾 Skill development — room for growth into supervisory or specialized roles
Some employers also provide health benefits, paid time off, and retirement plans, especially in municipal or unionized positions.
🎓 Certifications & Education That Can Boost Pay
While a high school diploma is often sufficient, the following can elevate earning potential:
Valuable Credentials
Landscape Industry Certified Technician
Horticultural certificates
OSHA safety and equipment operation training
Irrigation and water management certification
Such training signals professionalism and can set candidates apart in competitive hiring situations.
📌 Career Advancement & Growth
Experienced landscapers and gardeners can move into:
Crew Lead or Supervisor
Landscape Designer
Horticultural Specialist
Landscape Project Manager
These roles typically come with higher pay, greater responsibility, and more strategic involvement in planning and client relations.
🧠 Summary: Washington, DC Landscaper / Gardener Salary in 2026
📍 Average salaries in DC range broadly around $42,000–$48,000+ annually, depending on role and experience.
🧑🌾 Experience matters — seasoned workers and supervisors earn notably more.
📊 Local wages generally exceed national averages for the profession.
🌿 Certifications and skills can boost employability and pay.
📈 Job outlook remains stable with varied opportunities across residential, commercial, and institutional landscaping.
Whether you’re starting out or planning a career in landscaping or gardening in Washington, DC, this profession offers steady work, outdoor engagement, and potential for growth as you build skills and take on responsibility.