Reno, Nevada offers a vibrant environment for landscapers and gardeners, blending urban growth with outdoor living. Whether you’re starting your career maintaining lawns or advancing toward specialized landscape roles, understanding salary expectations for 2026 helps you plan your financial and professional future. This guide provides clear insights into average salary ranges, factors that influence earnings, salary by experience, job market trends, benefits, and tips to boost income — all presented in an engaging, easy-to-read format.
💼 Average Salary Range — Reno, NV (2026)
Landscaper and gardener salaries can vary widely based on role, experience, and employer. Here’s the current snapshot for Reno:
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Typical Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaper (general) | ~$41,000 – $48,000 | ~$20–$23/hr |
| Landscape / Groundskeeping Worker | ~$29,000 – $34,000 | varies |
| Landscape Contractor | ~$38,000 | ~$19/hr |
| Landscape Technician (higher skill) | ~$54,000 | ~$26/hr |
| Gardener (general) | ~$39/hr est. average wage NV state | — |
Key Points:
The median landscaper salary in Reno hovers around $41,000–$48,000 per year, with variations depending on experience and specific duties.
Entry-level groundskeeping roles or labor-intensive assistant positions may start lower, especially without certifications.
Technicians and contractor roles that require specialized skills or oversight responsibilities tend to command higher pay.
📈 Salary by Experience
Experience plays a major role in determining pay. Below is a general breakdown for landscapers and gardeners in Reno:
| Experience Level | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–1 year) | ~$30,000 – $36,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–4 years) | ~$36,000 – $42,000 |
| Experienced (5–10 years) | ~$42,000 – $50,000+ |
| Highly Specialized / Leadership Roles | $50,000+ / higher technician roles |
Insights:
Entry-level workers often begin with basic maintenance and manual tasks.
Mid-level professionals typically take on planting design, irrigation setup, and seasonal planning.
Those with significant experience or supervisory/technical training can transition to higher-paying technician or contractor roles.
🌱 Factors That Influence Earnings
Several key factors determine how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Reno:
🧰 1. Skill Level & Certifications
Certifications in horticulture, irrigation systems, pesticide application, or OSHA safety can increase pay.
Specialized knowledge allows you to take on more complex jobs.
🏢 2. Employer Type
Commercial landscaping companies may offer regular hours but moderate pay.
Residential services might include tips or add-on contract work.
⏱️ 3. Hours & Seasonality
Landscaping is often seasonal — peak pay tends to occur in spring and summer.
Full-time positions may include benefits, while part-time or seasonal roles usually do not.
📍 4. Local Demand
Reno’s growing housing market and commercial development keep demand for landscaping services steady.
Landscaping in upscale residential areas can offer better hourly rates.
📊 Job Market Trends — Reno & Beyond
The landscaping job market in Reno reflects broader trends in the labor market:
Steady Demand: As residential and commercial construction continues, landscapers are needed to establish and maintain outdoor spaces.
Growth in Technological Skills: Knowledge of landscape design software, irrigation tech, and environmentally sustainable practices is increasingly valued.
Outdoor Recreation Popularity: Reno’s outdoor lifestyle supports gardening and landscaping services year-round.
While automation might assist with some tasks, landscaping remains hands-on and human-intensive — meaning job opportunities are expected to remain stable.
🌟 Benefits of Working as a Landscaper / Gardener
Working in landscaping offers more than just income:
✅ Work Flexibility
Many landscapers choose flexible schedules or seasonal work.
✅ Outdoor Work
Ideal for those who prefer physical activity and fresh air.
✅ Career Diversity
Opportunities exist in commercial properties, residential services, parks, golf courses, and government maintenance.
✅ Skill Development
Gain practical skills in horticulture, equipment operation, and project planning.
📘 Education & Certifications That Boost Salary
While formal degrees aren’t always required, certain credentials can help:
| Certification / Training | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Horticulture Courses | Knowledge of plant care increases job scope |
| Irrigation & Water Management | Highly valued for commercial jobs |
| OSHA Safety Training | Improves workplace safety awareness |
| Pesticide Applicator License | Enables specialized maintenance roles |
These qualifications can set you apart from other candidates and open opportunities for higher pay or leadership roles.
🆚 Comparison — Reno vs Nearby Cities
| City | Average Landscaper Salary (est. 2026) |
|---|---|
| Reno, NV | ~$41,000 – $48,000 |
| Las Vegas, NV (landscape laborer) | ~$38,000 (avg) |
| Northern Nevada Rural Region (Union prev.) | ~$47–$49/hr for union landscaping rates |
| Nevada State Avg. Landscaper | ~$39,650 |
Reno’s wages are competitive within Nevada, often slightly higher than state averages — though union or highly specialized positions can pay significantly more.
💼 Tips to Maximize Earnings
Here are actionable strategies to grow your landscaping career and income:
🔹 Improve Technical Skills
Learn irrigation systems, plant diagnosis, or landscape design tools.
🔹 Earn Certifications
Certifications often open doors to specialty jobs and higher pay.
🔹 Build Client Relationships
Positive client reviews and repeat contracts can make your income more stable.
🔹 Specialize
Focus on niches like sustainable landscaping, xeriscaping (water-efficient design), or landscape lighting.
📌 Final Thoughts
In 2026, Reno, NV continues to be a promising city for landscapers and gardeners. Salaries are competitive with state averages, and opportunities exist for growth with experience, skills, and certifications. Whether you’re entering the field or advancing to technical and supervisory roles, understanding the salary landscape empowers you to make informed career decisions.
Landscaping offers not only financial rewards but also job satisfaction for those who enjoy working outdoors and building beautiful spaces. With steady demand and multiple career pathways, now is a great time to plant the seeds for a successful career in landscaping.