If you’re considering a career as a landscaper or gardener in Edmonton, Alberta, knowing your earning potential is essential. In 2026, landscaping remains a vital trade in this growing city, blending outdoor work with steady demand from residential and commercial clients. This guide breaks down the average salary range, factors that influence earnings, pay by experience level, job market trends, benefits, and credentials that impact salary — all in a user‑friendly format.
🌱 Average Salary Range in Edmonton, AB
Landscaper and gardener pay in Edmonton varies by experience, role, and employer. Here’s what the data shows:
| Job Title | Average Hourly Rate | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Gardener | ~$22.37/hr | ~$46,500/year (est) |
| Landscaper (all levels) | ~$20/hr | ~$42,000/year (Glassdoor average) |
| Entry Landscaper | ~$18–$20/hr | ~$37,500–$41,000/year |
| Experienced Landscaper | ~$24–$29/hr+ | ~$50,000–$60,000+/year (top end) |
📌 Median wage figures from regional wage surveys show gardeners and landscape workers earning between $18–$22/hr, with high‑end roles exceeding $29/hr.
👩🌾 Factors That Influence Salary
Several key elements determine how much a landscaper or gardener can earn in Edmonton:
1. Experience Level
Novice workers start toward the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with technical skills or supervisory roles can command much higher pay.
2. Type of Employer
Residential landscaping firms
Municipal parks and recreation departments
Commercial landscaping companies
Landscape design/build firms
Employer size and clientele often influence compensation levels.
3. Skills & Specialization
Hardscaping (pavers, retaining walls)
Irrigation system installation
Plant health care and pest management
Landscape design software knowledge
These skills often translate into higher pay or supervisory roles.
4. Certifications and Training
Horticulture certificates
Landscape technician diplomas
Safety training and equipment operation certification
These can help differentiate candidates and improve wage prospects.
💼 Salary by Experience Level
Experience strongly influences earnings. Here’s a breakdown:
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage Estimate | Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0–2 yrs) | $18–$20/hr | ~$37,000–$41,000 |
| Mid Level (3–5 yrs) | $20–$24/hr | ~$41,000–$50,000 |
| Senior/Specialized | $24–$29+ /hr | ~$50,000–$60,000+ |
In Edmonton, journeyman landscapers and those with specialized skills or supervisory duties often find themselves at the top end of this range.
📈 Job Market Trends
The landscaping and gardening sector in Edmonton is influenced by several ongoing trends:
🌿 High Demand in Urban Areas
Edmonton’s residential growth and commercial development continue to create demand for landscapers and gardeners. Maintenance, renovation, and landscape installation projects keep this occupation stable.
🌦️ Seasonal Work Component
Landscaping in Edmonton is often seasonal, with heavier demand in spring, summer, and fall. Winter roles (such as snow removal) sometimes extend employment opportunities.
🧑🌾 Steady Entry‑Level Opportunities
Many firms hire workers with minimal experience, making it accessible for job seekers entering the workforce or changing careers.
🌟 Benefits of Landscaping & Gardening Work
Working in landscaping and gardening comes with several perks beyond salary:
Outdoor work environment
Active, health‑oriented job
Seasonal flexibility
Opportunities for tips or bonuses on commercial/residential projects
Skill development in horticulture and landscape construction
Many employers also offer benefits such as extended health coverage or dental insurance, especially in larger landscaping firms or municipal jobs.
📚 Certifications & Education That Impact Salary
While many landscapers start with on‑the‑job training, the following qualifications can improve job prospects and pay:
Recommended Credentials
Landscape Technician Diploma
Horticulture or Urban Forestry Certificate
Safety certifications (e.g., first aid, equipment operation)
Pesticide applicator certification
Accreditation from recognized Canadian institutions can signal expertise and boost earnings, especially when working with commercial clients or in supervisory roles.
📊 Edmonton vs Nearby Cities (Salary Comparison)
Here’s how landscaper and gardener pay in Edmonton compares to surrounding areas:
| City / Region | Estimated Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Edmonton, AB | $18–$29/hr (varies by experience) |
| Greater Alberta (avg) | ~$21.69/hr for gardeners |
| Stony Plain, AB | ~$23.68/hr (gardener) |
| Calgary, AB | Generally similar range (~$20–$25/hr) (job postings) |
Edmonton’s wages align well with other major Alberta centers, offering competitive compensation.
🧠 Job Outlook & Future Growth
The outlook for landscapers and gardeners in 2026 remains positive, with demand driven by:
Residential construction and landscaping
Commercial property upkeep
Municipal parks and recreational areas
Eco‑friendly landscape design trends
As more businesses and homeowners invest in outdoor living spaces, the need for skilled landscapers and gardeners continues to grow.
🪴 Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
If you want to increase your salary potential:
Gain specialized skills (e.g., irrigation systems)
Pursue relevant certifications
Build a portfolio of completed projects
Network with landscaping firms and designers
Consider self‑employment or freelance work
Experienced self‑employed landscapers often set higher hourly rates based on expertise and reputation.
📌 Summary
🌿 Average annual salaries for landscapers in Edmonton in 2026 range from approximately $37,000 to $60,000+, depending on experience, skills, and role.
🌱 Hourly wages generally fall between $18 and $29/hr for experienced garden and landscaping work.
📈 Job opportunities remain strong due to residential development, commercial landscaping demand, and seasonal hiring.
📚 Certifications and skill development can significantly increase your earning potential over time.
Whether you’re entering the field or looking to grow your career, Edmonton offers a solid foundation for landscapers and gardeners in 2026.