FAQ
Landscaper FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a landscaper.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a landscaper: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about landscapers
Do landscapers need experience?
No; most learn on the job.
Is landscaping seasonal?
It slows in winter in cold areas, but many crews do snow removal.
Can landscapers start businesses?
Yes, many do.
How much does a landscaper make?
The median annual wage for landscapers was $39,150 ($18.82 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $31,150 and the highest 10% earned more than $56,730.
How long does it take to become a landscaper?
Most people need about 1–4 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Landscapers learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a landscaper?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is landscaper a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.7% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 149,500 openings each year. Upsides include work outdoors; a common challenge is that heat, cold and weather.
What skills does a landscaper need?
Key technical skills include mowing and trimming, planting, pruning, and irrigation basics. Employers also value stamina, reliability, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for landscapers?
Common credentials include NALP Landscape Industry Certified Technician, Pesticide applicator license, Irrigation Association certification, and CDL. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Landscaper fit quiz, compare with Landscaping Supervisor, or explore Landscaper training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 37-3011 (Landscaping and groundskeeping workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Landscaping and groundskeeping workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.