If you’re considering a career in landscaping or gardening in Toledo, Ohio, understanding pay expectations, growth opportunities, and industry trends is essential. This guide provides a detailed look at the 2026 salary landscape for landscapers and gardeners in Toledo — including average pay ranges, experience‑based earnings, key factors influencing pay, job outlook, benefits, and comparisons to similar cities.
🪴 Average Salary Range in Toledo, OH (2026)
In Toledo, landscapers and gardeners earn competitive wages compared to many parts of Ohio. Salaries generally depend on skill level, experience, job type, and employer expectations.
📍 Typical Salary Breakdown
| Role | Estimated Average Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaper (Toledo) | ~$36,355 per year | Based on local salary estimates for 2025/2026 surveys |
| Landscaper (Hourly Range) | $17–$20 per hour | Reported job postings in Toledo |
| Landscape Laborer (General) | ~$16.93/hr average | Toledo laborer wages from recent data |
| Landscape Foreman | ~$39,556 per year | Higher supervisory role |
| Gardener (Ohio average) | ~$35,926 per year (~$17/hr) | Ohio state average gardener salary |
👉 Average annual wages for landscapers in Toledo are around $36,000–$37,000, with top earners — especially those with supervisory or specialized duties — exceeding $40,000 annually.
🌱 Factors That Influence Earnings
Several key factors affect how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Toledo:
🧑🔧 1. Experience Level
• Entry‑level workers usually start closer to the lower end of the pay range.
• Skilled and experienced landscapers with several seasons under their belt can earn more and may move into leadership or foreman roles.
🏢 2. Type of Employer
• Commercial landscaping companies may offer higher base pay.
• Residential services can vary but often include benefits like tips or seasonal bonuses.
• Public entities (e.g., parks or institutions) sometimes provide steadier year‑round pay.
🛠️ 3. Skills & Certifications
• Specialized skills such as irrigation system installation, hardscaping, or equipment operation can lead to higher pay.
• Certifications in horticulture or turf management (even non‑mandated) demonstrate expertise.
📍 4. Job Duties
• Basic gardening and lawn care (mowing, weeding, trimming) typically pay less than more technical duties like landscape design or tree care.
• Leadership roles such as Landscape Foreman generally receive higher compensation.
🌿 Landscaper & Gardener Salary by Experience
Experience plays a significant role in earnings. Below is a general progression for landscaper and gardener earnings:
| Experience Level | Typical Pay Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–1 yr) | ~$30,000 – $35,000 | Basic tasks under supervision |
| Early Career (1–3 yrs) | ~$35,000 – $38,000 | Increasing responsibilities |
| Mid‑Level (3–6 yrs) | ~$38,000 – $42,000 | Specialized duties, efficiency boosts |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | ~$42,000+ | Leadership, foreman or supervisory roles |
While exact Toledo‑specific experience breakdowns are not published, statewide data suggests that earnings steadily rise with experience and skills as landscapers advance beyond entry duties.
🌎 Job Market Trends & Outlook
💼 Stable Demand for Landscaping Jobs
The landscaping industry remains relatively stable in Toledo due to several ongoing needs:
Residential property care — homeowners increasingly hire professionals for lawn and garden maintenance.
Commercial property services — businesses require regular landscape upkeep.
Seasonal work remains significant — spring through fall sees peak hiring. Some roles may be seasonal by nature.
📈 Long‑Term Outlook
Landscaping and gardening roles are expected to grow modestly, driven by continued investment in outdoor spaces and maintenance services.
🌳 Benefits of Landscaping & Gardening Careers
Working as a landscaper or gardener can provide more than just a paycheck:
👇 Key Benefits
Outdoor work environment — ideal for people who enjoy being outside.
Flexible hours — many roles offer both full‑time and part‑time opportunities.
Skill development — opportunities to learn machinery operation, plant care, design, and project management.
Potential for entrepreneurship — many experienced landscapers start their own businesses.
Some employers may also offer seasonal bonuses, health benefits, and paid time off for full‑time staff.
🎓 Certifications & Education That Impact Salary
While many landscaping and gardener jobs do not require formal education, the following can boost career prospects and pay:
📌 Useful Credentials
Horticulture or Turf Management Courses — community college programs build plant science knowledge.
Equipment Operation Training — safe operation of commercial mowers, trimmers, and other machinery.
Professional Landscaping Certifications — offered through trade associations.
These credentials help differentiate you from competitors and can be especially valuable for career advancement.
🏙️ Compare: Toledo vs Nearby Cities
Here’s how Toledo’s landscaper salaries stack up compared to similar Ohio cities:
| City | Estimated Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Toledo, OH | ~$36,355 per year |
| Cleveland, OH | ~$44,000+ (higher cost market) |
| Akron, OH | ~$41,500+ |
| Sandusky, OH | ~$43,200+ |
These comparisons show Toledo offers competitive mid‑range landscaping wages in Ohio’s labor market, though larger cities often pay moderately higher.
📌 Final Takeaways
Average landscaper/gardener salaries in Toledo in 2026 sit around $36,000–$37,000 per year, with hourly rates commonly between $17–$20.
Experience, skills, employer type, and certifications play a significant role in earnings.
Job demand remains steady, particularly during spring and summer seasons.
Opportunities exist for career growth and skill development, including supervisory roles and specialized landscape services.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to grow in this field, Toledo’s landscaping and gardening roles offer solid opportunities for meaningful work with fair compensation.