If you’re curious about what landscapers and gardeners earn in Markham, Ontario in 2026, this detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know — from average salary ranges to how experience, certifications, and job trends influence pay. Whether you’re considering entering the landscaping field or looking to advance your career, this article offers practical, SEO‑friendly insights.
🌱 Average Salary Range in Markham, ON
Landscaper and gardener wages can vary based on role, experience, and employer. Here’s a general snapshot of what workers in Markham are earning:
| Role | Typical Hourly Wage | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaping Labourer | ~$18 – $23 per hour | ~$37,000 – $48,000+ |
| Landscape Gardener | ~$20 – $25 per hour | ~$41,600 – $52,000 |
| Gardener (average) | ~$21.44 per hour | ~$44,600 |
| Senior/Experienced Gardener | ~$26+ per hour | ~$54,000+ |
💡 Note: These figures are estimates based on current job postings and regional wage data. Actual salaries may vary with market conditions and specific employer policies.
💼 What Influences Landscaper / Gardener Earnings
Several factors help determine how much landscapers and gardeners earn in Markham:
📍 1. Experience Level
Entry‑Level: Workers with little to no experience typically start at the lower end of wage ranges.
Mid‑Level: After 2–4 years in the field, workers often earn closer to or above typical local averages.
Experienced/Senior: Those with strong horticultural skills, specialized equipment knowledge, or crew leadership responsibilities command higher pay.
💡 Job postings in Markham today show roles for landscape gardeners ranging from $20 to $25 per hour with benefits and full‑time opportunities — indicating that pay grows with experience and responsibility.
📊 Salary Based on Experience
Here’s how experience typically influences landscaper and gardener pay in Markham:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Approx. Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 0–1 Year | ~$18 – $20 | ~$37,000 – $41,600 |
| 2–4 Years | ~$20 – $23 | ~$41,600 – $47,800 |
| 5+ Years | ~$23 – $26+ | ~$47,800 – ~$54,000+ |
💡 Senior gardeners with specialized horticulture skills or crew leadership roles may earn above these amounts.
📈 Job Market Trends in Markham & Region
Markham’s landscaping and gardening job market is influenced by several trends:
🌿 Growing Demand for Outdoor Services
With continued residential and commercial development in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), there’s a steady need for landscaping and garden maintenance services throughout the spring and summer seasons.
🏘️ Local Climate & Seasonal Work
Ontario’s distinct seasons mean landscapers often enjoy busy spring through fall work, while winter roles may be limited or shift to property maintenance and snow removal.
📌 Regional Wage Trends
Job Bank data for the Toronto region — which includes Markham — shows landscape work wages ranging roughly from $22 to $30 per hour across low to high pay scales.
🌷 Benefits & Perks of Landscaping Work
Working as a landscaper or gardener often includes additional job perks, depending on the employer:
Extended Health Care & Vision/Dental Plans (often offered in full‑time roles)
Seasonal Bonuses and Incentives
On‑the‑job Training & Mentorship Programs
Flexible Seasonal Schedules
Employee Events and Team Activities
Many companies emphasize growth opportunities and community within their teams, making landscaping a rewarding career beyond just hourly wages.
📘 Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While landscaping doesn’t always require formal degrees, the right certifications and training can boost earning potential:
🎓 Valuable Certifications:
Pesticide Application Certification
Horticulture or Arborist Training
Landscaping Technology Diplomas
Safety and Equipment Operation Certifications
These qualifications help differentiate workers for more advanced roles or supervisory positions, often with higher pay.
🪴 Comparing Salaries: Markham vs. Nearby Cities
| City | Average Gardener / Landscaper Wage |
|---|---|
| Markham, ON | ~$20 – $25 per hour (varies by role) |
| Toronto, ON | ~$22 – $30 per hour regional median |
| Mississauga, ON | ~$23.90 per hour (reported) |
| Oakville, ON | ~$27.68 per hour (reported) |
Landscape professionals in Markham earn slightly below some nearby high‑wage cities like Oakville, but the cost of living and demand for seasonal work help make the field viable and competitive.
🌟 Tips to Boost Your Salary in Landscaping
Here are actionable ways to increase earnings in this field:
🧠 Gain Experience
The more seasons you work and the more skills you develop, the higher your pay potential.
📜 Pursue Certifications
Specialized training — such as horticulture or equipment operation — can make you more valuable.
🔧 Build Diverse Skills
Learn pruning, planting, irrigation system maintenance, and hardscape installation.
🤝 Seek Leadership Roles
Becoming a crew lead or supervisor helps unlock higher hourly rates or salaried roles.
🌼 Conclusion
In 2026, landscapers and gardeners in Markham, ON generally earn between $18 and $26+ per hour, with the exact rate depending on experience, skills, and employer type. This translates to typical annual earnings of roughly $37,000 to $54,000+ for full‑time workers.
Markham’s landscaping job market remains active, with seasonal demand, opportunities for growth, and additional benefits in many full‑time roles. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, understanding wages, certifications, and market trends will help you plan a successful career in landscaping.