Full Landscape Design in Chicago, IL — Costs $6,874 to $68,738
What does full landscape design cost in Chicago? Average $24,746, ranging $6,874–$68,738. Labor runs $44.35/hr locally — 37% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.
Chicago, IL Market
+37% vs nationalLabor Rate
$44.35/hr
Material Index
129
Avg Permit Cost
$1,503
Median Home Price
$238,022
As one of the largest metros in Illinois, Chicago has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 37% above the national average, Chicago is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. At a median home price of $238,022, homeowners in Chicago should weigh the project cost (10.4% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.
Low Estimate
$6,874
National: $5,000
Mid-Range
$24,746
National: $18,000
High End
$68,738
National: $50,000
Per Sq Ft
$0
National: $0
Full Landscape Design Cost Calculator for Chicago
Adjusted for Chicago's labor rate ($44.35/hr) and material costs (index 129).
Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.
Estimated Total in Chicago
$23,756
Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Chicago market rates.
Local Cost Breakdown
At Chicago's average rate of $44.35/hr (48% above national avg)
Material cost index 129 (29% above national baseline of 100)
Full Landscape Design vs. Home Value in Chicago
| Metric | Chicago | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Full Landscape Design (Mid-Range) | $24,746 | $18,000 |
| Median Home Price | $238,022 | $350,000 |
| Project as % of Home Value | 10.4% | 5.1% |
| Estimated ROI | 62% | 62% |
| Median Household Income | $65,469 | $75,000 |
What Affects the Price in Chicago
- 1Local labor rates ($44.35/hr in Chicago)
- 2Material cost index (129 vs national 100)
- 3Yard size
- 4Plant selection
- 5Hardscaping
- 6Irrigation
Popular Upgrades
- Landscape lighting
- Irrigation system
- Fire pit
Other Projects in Chicago, IL
Full Landscape Design in Other Illinois Cities
Planning a Full Landscape Design in Chicago
A full landscape design typically doesn't require a permit in Chicago, which simplifies planning. However, always confirm with the local building department before starting, especially for structural changes. Expect the project to take 2-6 weeks to complete.
A full landscape design is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Chicago, skilled contractors charge an average of $44.35/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.
For the median Chicago household earning $65,469/year, this project at $24,746 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.
Full Landscape Design — National Guide
See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.
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