Landscaping Services

The 114,800 landscaping services firms in the US provide planting, fertilizing, mowing, leaf and snow blowing, edging and trimming, construction, cleaning, and pest removal services for commercial and residential customers. Landscaping for commercial properties makes up 53% of industry sales. Residential areas account for 33% of sales, but are often the sole focus of small landscaping firms.

Ongoing Equipment Costs

Landscaping firms need money to purchase, maintain, and repair quickly depreciating equipment.

Worker Documentation

Landscaping services rely on unskilled, low-wage workers to keep overhead low.

Oct 19, 2026 - Lawn and Garden Spending Shifts Toward Specialized Products

• The lawn and garden consumables market is undergoing shifts in product demand and retailer strategies, according to the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI). Sales across five major retailers increased by 1.3% year-to-date in 2026, but category performance varied substantially. Weed control sales rose 3.8%, and mulch and growing media increased 3.6%, while lawn care products declined 6%. Retailers increasingly emphasized premium, specialized products offering convenience and specific solutions. Products marketed as natural, organic, or household-friendly also gained traction in certain categories. For landscaping services providers, these trends could indicate opportunities to differentiate services through specialized weed treatments, premium mulching, and environmentally conscious landscape maintenance. However, changing consumer preferences may require contractors to reconsider product selection, communicate treatment benefits more clearly, and balance premium offerings against customers' price sensitivity.
• Existing home sales increased in September, although the housing market remained sluggish compared with a year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Sales rose 1.5% from August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.99 million but declined 2.2% year over year. Housing inventory increased 4.6% from September 2025 to 1.6 million units, representing a 4.8-month supply. The median existing home price reached $417,500, up 1.3% year over year. NAR noted that higher inventory and longer selling times were strengthening buyers' negotiating power. Landscaping service providers could see increased demand for property cleanup, lawn maintenance, planting, and curb-appeal improvements as sellers compete for buyers. Homebuyers may also commission landscape renovations after purchasing properties, although elevated mortgage rates and affordability concerns could limit discretionary spending.
• Remodeling industry sentiment remained positive in the third quarter despite economic uncertainty and persistent labor shortages, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The NAHB Remodeling Market Index rose one point from the previous quarter to 62. Readings above 50 indicate that more remodelers view market conditions as good than poor. The Current Conditions Index held at 70, while the Future Indicators Index increased two points to 54. NAHB expects remodeling activity to remain stable in 2026 and grow slightly in 2027. Contractors reported that elevated material costs, labor shortages, and customer hesitation continued to affect projects. Landscaping services providers could benefit from sustained investment in existing properties, including outdoor living improvements, planting, and landscape renovations. However, competition for workers, project delays, and cost-conscious homeowners could constrain growth and profitability.
• Job candidates are evaluating landscaping companies' organization, reputation, workplace conditions, and hiring practices before accepting positions, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). A disorganized yard, a poorly structured on-site interview, a lengthy hiring process, or weak communication can discourage applicants. Candidates also research employers' websites, online reviews, social media presence, benefits, and employee treatment, and some contact industry peers before applying. NALP notes companies commonly lose candidates after a second interview or during the offer stage. Landscaping firms competing for workers may need to view every part of recruiting, from facilities and communication to compensation discussions, as part of their overall employer reputation.

Industry size & Structure

An average landscaping service has 8 employees and generates $1 million in annual revenue.

• The US has about 114,800 landscaping firms that employ 911,100 workers and generate about $130.7 billion in annual sales.
• 86% of firms have fewer than 10 employees.
• Some companies operate as franchises, but most are operated independently.
• Segments include commercial, residential, construction, pest extermination, and design.
• Large companies include TruGreen, BrightView, Davey Tree Expert, Lawn Doctor, and US Lawns.