Landscape Groundskeeper Salary in 2025

The landscaping industry continues to thrive in 2025, driven by residential, commercial, and environmental sustainability trends. As a result, the demand for skilled landscape groundskeepers is growing steadily. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the landscape groundskeeper salary in 2025, including factors influencing pay, job outlook, and tips to maximize earnings.

Average Salary for Landscape Groundskeepers in 2025

As of mid-2025, the average salary for a landscape groundskeeper in the United States is approximately $39,000 to $47,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and employer. Entry-level positions typically start around $31,000, while experienced groundskeepers with specialized skills or supervisory roles can earn upwards of $55,000 or more annually.

Salary by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0-2 Years):
Annual Salary: $31,000 – $36,000
Hourly Rate: $14 – $17
Mid-Level (3-5 Years):
Annual Salary: $37,000 – $44,000
Hourly Rate: $17 – $21
Experienced (6-10 Years):
Annual Salary: $45,000 – $52,000
Hourly Rate: $21 – $25
Senior/Supervisor (10+ Years):
Annual Salary: $53,000 – $60,000+
Hourly Rate: $25 – $30+

Factors That Influence Salary

Several variables can significantly impact how much a landscape groundskeeper earns:

Location: Groundskeepers in high-cost-of-living areas (e.g., California, New York) tend to earn higher wages.
Industry Sector: Government and educational institutions often offer better compensation than private contractors.
Certifications & Licenses: Specialized training (e.g., pesticide application, irrigation systems) often leads to higher pay.
Education: While a high school diploma is usually sufficient, those with certifications in horticulture or landscaping may earn more.
Union Membership: Groundskeepers in unionized roles may receive better wages and benefits packages.

Job Market Trends in 2025

The landscaping industry is benefiting from increased environmental awareness and urban greening projects. These trends are fueling demand for groundskeeping services in both private and public sectors.

Key Trends:

Sustainability Practices: Groundskeepers trained in eco-friendly methods and native plant care are in high demand.
Tech Integration: The use of landscaping drones, automated irrigation systems, and GPS mapping increases job value.
Commercial Real Estate Boom: Ongoing investments in commercial and hospitality landscaping projects drive hiring.

Benefits and Perks

Besides base pay, many groundskeepers enjoy additional benefits, especially those working full-time or for large institutions:

Health and dental insurance
Paid vacation and sick leave
Retirement plans (401(k) or pensions)
Overtime and holiday pay
Tuition reimbursement or training stipends

Certifications That Boost Salary

While not always required, these certifications can help increase job opportunities and income potential:

Certified Landscape Technician (CLT)
Pesticide Applicator License
ISA Certified Arborist
Irrigation Association Certifications

Completing a certificate or associate degree in horticulture, landscaping, or grounds management can also set candidates apart.

Career Path and Advancement

With experience, a landscape groundskeeper can transition into roles such as:

Crew Supervisor or Foreman
Landscape Designer
Grounds Manager
Irrigation Technician
Facilities Maintenance Lead

Supervisory roles and specialized positions can lead to salaries of $60,000–$75,000+ annually, especially in metropolitan areas or with government agencies.

Conclusion

A career as a landscape groundskeeper in 2025 offers solid income potential, especially for those who pursue specialized skills and certifications. With growing demand driven by environmental and urban development trends, the outlook for this field is promising. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance in your landscaping career, there are clear opportunities to grow your salary and impact.