If you’re considering a career or job as a landscaper or gardener in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, understanding how much you can earn in 2026 is a smart first step. Landscaping and gardening work continues to be in demand in Baton Rouge — from residential lawn care to commercial groundskeeping — with pay influenced by experience, skills, certifications, and job role. Let’s break down the salary ranges, what affects earnings, job market trends, benefits, and how Baton Rouge compares to other nearby cities.
🌿 Average Salary Range — Baton Rouge, LA (2026)
In 2026, pay for landscapers, gardeners, and related roles in Baton Rouge varies depending on job title and experience:
Hourly & Annual Pay Estimates
| Role | Average Hourly Rate | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaper / Landscape Laborer | ~$17–$18/hr | ~$35,000–$38,000 |
| Gardener | ~$16.62/hr | ~$34,500* |
| Landscape Technician | ~$17.84/hr | ~$37,000* |
| Groundskeeper | ~$17/hr | ~$36,000 |
| Landscape Manager (supervisory) | ~$130,000+ | ~$130,775 |
Annual figures are based on average hourly rates multiplied by a full-time schedule.
✔️ Typical landscaper and groundskeeping worker salaries in Baton Rouge generally range between about $35,000 and $38,000 annually for labor-intensive roles, though supervisory positions like landscape manager can pay significantly more.
📈 How Experience Affects Salary
Experience significantly influences earnings in landscaping and gardening:
Entry-Level (0–1 year): Workers usually start near the lower end of wage ranges (~$14–$17/hr).
Mid-Level (2–4 years): With experience, pay typically increases into the mid $30Ks.
Experienced (5+ years): Skilled workers with specialized abilities often earn towards the higher end of the range or shift into supervisory/managerial roles.
Supervisory positions such as landscape manager are significantly higher because they require leadership, project planning, and client communication skills.
🌿 Core Factors That Influence Earnings
Several key elements affect how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Baton Rouge:
1. Job Role & Responsibilities
Basic groundskeepers or laborers usually earn lower wages.
Landscape technicians and specialists with equipment skills earn more.
2. Experience & Skill Level
More years on the job mean better understanding of plants, irrigation systems, and landscape design — often translating to higher pay.
3. Employer Type
Larger commercial landscaping firms or institutional jobs (like universities or municipal contracts) may offer better pay and benefits.
Smaller residential-focused companies might pay less but offer flexible schedules.
4. Certifications & Training
Formal credentials or training — such as pesticide application safety, horticulture certificates, or equipment operation training — can make a worker more valuable and increase pay potential.
📊 Job Market Trends in Baton Rouge
Landscaping and gardening remain solid employment choices in Baton Rouge due to several demand drivers:
Residential Landscaping: Homeowners continue to invest in outdoor spaces and lawn care services.
Commercial Groundskeeping: Office complexes, schools, and public parks regularly need maintenance.
Seasonal Demand: Louisiana’s climate allows for year‑round work, though workload may peak in warmer seasons.
According to wage data for grounds maintenance workers, the median hourly wage nationally is about $18.50, reflecting steady demand across similar roles.
🌱 Benefits of Working as a Landscaper / Gardener
Working in landscaping and gardening comes with several advantages:
Flexible Work Style
Many landscaping jobs offer flexible schedules — part‑time, full‑time, or seasonal work.
Physical & Outdoor Environment
If you enjoy working outside and staying active, this is a compelling career choice.
Skill Growth Opportunities
Experience with tools, machinery, and horticultural practices builds valuable transferable skills.
Potential for Entrepreneurial Work
Many landscapers start their own businesses, offering services directly to clients — sometimes at higher rates than regular employment.
📚 Certifications That Can Improve Pay
While formal degrees are not typically required, certain certifications help increase salary potential:
Horticulture or Plant Science Certificates
Landscape Industry Certified Technician (CLT)
Pesticide Safety Training (state certification)
Equipment Operation Certifications (e.g., for mowers or trimmers)
These credentials demonstrate commitment and expertise, helping workers stand out in competitive job markets.
📍 Salary Comparison: Baton Rouge vs Nearby Cities
Here’s how Baton Rouge’s landscaping and gardening pay stacks up with other locations in Louisiana:
| City | Estimated Average Pay |
|---|---|
| Baton Rouge, LA | ~$35,000–$38,000 annual avg. |
| New Orleans, LA | Typically higher hourly rates nearby (~$19.20/hr for gardeners) |
| Gonzales, LA | Slightly above Baton Rouge gardener average (~$17.45/hr) |
| Statewide Average (LA) | About ~$34,000/year (~$16.39/hr) for landscapers overall |
Overall, Baton Rouge’s pay aligns with the broader Louisiana market, though larger metro areas like New Orleans can be slightly higher.
🔍 Job Outlook & Growth Potential
Future Demand
Landscaping and gardening roles are expected to remain stable or grow modestly as residential and commercial properties continue regular maintenance needs.
Career Progression
With experience, workers can advance into:
Lead Technician
Foreman / Crew Supervisor
Landscape Designer
Business Owner / Entrepreneur
Each step up often brings improved pay and responsibility.
🌿 Final Thoughts
The 2026 landscaper and gardener salary in Baton Rouge, LA offers a solid wage for a physically engaging and often outdoors career. With average pay near $35,000–$38,000 annually for most labor roles, and the potential for much higher earnings in managerial or specialized positions, this field presents a reliable choice for many workers.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, gaining experience and certifications can open doors to higher pay, career growth, and long‑term stability in the Baton Rouge landscaping industry.