If you’re exploring a career as a landscaper or gardener in Fort Worth, Texas, it’s important to understand what you can expect in terms of pay, growth opportunities, and career outlook in 2026. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down average salaries, how experience impacts earnings, industry trends, benefits, and how Fort Worth compares to nearby cities. Whether you’re starting out or planning to grow your landscaping career, this article provides a full picture of salary expectations and job potential.
🌿 Average Salary Range in Fort Worth (2026)
The pay for landscapers and gardeners in Fort Worth reflects local demand, cost of living, and level of expertise.
Landscaper Salary
| Salary Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | ~$36,529 |
| Hourly Equivalent | ~$17–$18 |
| Lower Range (10th percentile) | ~$30,670+ |
| Upper Range (75th percentile) | ~$39,032–$41,819 |
Landscape Gardener Salary
| Salary Tier | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 25th Percentile | ~$33,141 |
| Average | ~$36,603 |
| 75th Percentile | ~$40,009 |
| Top Earners (90th percentile) | ~$43,110 |
Gardener Pay (Hourly Basis)
According to employer-reported data, gardeners in Fort Worth typically earn:
Average: ~$20.48 per hour
Low: ~$17.77 per hour
High: ~$23.61 per hour
Overall, landscapers and gardeners in Fort Worth can expect annual earnings roughly between $30,000 and $43,000 depending on role, experience, and employer.
🪴 How Experience Influences Pay
Experience significantly impacts earnings in landscaping and gardening:
Experience Level Breakdown
Entry-Level (0–2 years): Often starts near the lower end of the pay scale (~$30K–$33K annually)
Early Career (2–4 years): Increased responsibility and skills can push earnings higher (~$36K–$38K)
Mid-Level (5+ years): With solid experience and specialized skills, salaries can approach the upper range (~$40K+)
Those with additional certifications, advanced plant care knowledge, or supervisory skills can often command better wages or niche roles.
🌱 Key Factors That Influence Earnings
1. Job Role & Skills
General landscapers may earn around the average range.
Gardeners with specialized plant care or horticultural knowledge can earn higher hourly rates.
2. Employer Type
Residential landscaping firms often provide steady work.
Commercial and municipal positions might offer structured pay scales and benefits.
3. Certifications & Training
Certifications in safety training (e.g., pesticide application), horticulture, or equipment operation increase credibility and can boost wages.
4. Seasonal Demand
Landscaping work fluctuates with seasons; busy spring and summer periods may offer more hours and overtime opportunities.
🌆 Job Market Trends & Outlook
The landscaping and gardening field in Fort Worth remains stable with consistent demand due to expansion in residential properties, commercial developments, and public space maintenance:
Outdoor Maintenance Growth: More homes and offices mean continued need for landscape services.
Green Industry Interest: Increasing interest in environmentally friendly landscapes and sustainable practices has grown demand for skilled gardeners.
Seasonality: Warm Texas weather allows for a longer outdoor work season compared to many northern cities.
Job outlook remains positive for 2026 and beyond as urban growth and property development drive continued employment in landscape maintenance and gardening.
🌎 Comparison with Nearby Cities
Here’s how Fort Worth’s landscape salaries stack up with similar markets:
| City | Average Rate / Salary |
|---|---|
| Fort Worth, TX | ~$36,529 avg. yearly (~$18/hr) |
| Dallas, TX | ~$65,274 avg. yearly (~$31/hr) – broader landscaping roles (but includes design/management) |
| Austin, TX | ~similar hourly rates for gardeners (~$21.95/hr) |
While some specialized roles in larger metros like Dallas pay significantly more, general landscaping work in Fort Worth offers competitive local wages in line with Texas industry standards.
🌿 Benefits of Working as a Landscaper or Gardener
Beyond pay, landscaping careers often provide:
Outdoor work environment — appealing for those who enjoy physical activity.
Flexible hours — especially for seasonal or part-time positions.
Opportunities for skill growth, such as plant science, equipment operation, and design knowledge.
Potential benefits with larger employers — like healthcare, paid time off, or retirement plans (especially in municipal/park services).
🧠 Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Although many landscaper and gardener jobs require minimal formal education, some credentials can help you stand out:
Recommended Enhancements
Horticulture or Botany courses — deepen plant knowledge.
Certified Landscape Technician (CLT) — industry-recognized skills.
Safety & Equipment Training — proper use of machinery and hazard awareness.
These credentials often translate to higher responsibility roles and better compensation.
📌 Tips to Maximize Earnings
Gain diverse experience — from pruning to irrigation systems.
Build skills in specialized areas — such as sustainable landscaping or hardscaping.
Seek higher-paying employers or municipal roles with benefits.
Network and professionalize — reputation matters in landscaping jobs.
🌻 Final Summary
For 2026, landscapers and gardeners in Fort Worth, TX can expect:
Average salaries around $36,000–$37,000 annually depending on role and experience.
Hourly rates typically $17–$20+ for gardeners and landscaping technicians.
Salaries influenced by skills, certifications, type of employer, and seasons.
Strong job stability and opportunities for growth in a city with expanding residential and commercial developments.
Whether you’re entering the field or planning to grow your landscaping career, Fort Worth remains a solid market with competitive compensation and room for advancement into specialized or managerial positions.