Landscape lighting is an investment that increases the curb appeal and value of your home, in addition to improving the safety and security of your property. But how much will your outdoor lighting project cost?
The average cost of landscape lighting ranges from $2500 to $5000 depending on the size and scope of the project, as well as the specific fixtures you choose. Smaller DIY projects can cost as little as $500, while large scale designs with high-end fixtures can cost as much as $8500 or more.
Simple Landscape Lighting Cost Calculator
Here is a basic calculator for estimating your outdoor lighting expenses.
Advanced Landscape Lighting Cost Calculator
If you know more details about your landscape lighting project, use the below calculator to estimate yoaur costs even more accurately.
Manual Landscape Lighting Cost Formula
To estimate your outdoor lighting expenses, you have to consider a number of factors like labor costs in your area and the complexity of the project design. We’ve broken down the costs into a formula that will help you estimate how much to budget for your landscape lighting project.
| Step 1: Calculate the Number of Fixtures Needed | Formula: Total Area (sq ft) / Desired Lighting DensityExample: Your backyard’s area is 500 sq ft and you want to install one fixture per 20 sq ft. 500 / 20 = 25 fixtures are needed to complete your project. |
| Step 2: Cost of Fixtures | Formula: Number of Fixtures x Cost per FixtureExample: 25 fixtures x $20 per fixture = $500 |
| Step 3: Installation Costs | Formula: Number of Fixtures x Cost per Fixture InstallationExample: 25 fixtures x $50 installation per fixture = $1250 for installation |
| Step 4: Cost for Controls and Automation (if Applicable) | Formula: Cost of Control System + (Number of Zones x Cost per Zone)Example: $200 for a timer system + (3 zones x $50 per zone) = $350 |
| Step 5: Wiring and Additional Materials | Formula: (Total Length of Wire in feet x Cost per Foot of Wire) + Additional MaterialExample: (100 feet x $3 per foot) + $100 for additional materials = $400 |
| Step 6: Calculate Total Cost | Formula: Cost of Fixtures + Installation Cost + Cost of Controls + Wiring CostExample: $500 + $1250 + $350 + $400 = $2500 |
Here’s a breakdown of how the project in the examples was calculated:
| Cost Breakdown of Example Project | |
| Cost of Fixtures | 25 fixtures x $20 = $500 |
| Installation Cost | 25 fixtures x $50 = $1250 |
| Controls and Automation Cost | $200 + (3 x $50) = $350 |
| Wiring Cost | (100 ft x $3) + $100 = $400 |
| Total Cost | $500 + $1250 + $350 + $400 = $2500 |
| Total Cost for Example Project: $2500 | |
Factors that Impact the Cost of Your Landscape Lighting Project
The cost of landscape lighting can vary widely depending on a number of factors that will influence the final budget for your project. Each factor has its own cost range, so your choices within each category can dramatically change your final budget.
| Feature | Description | Overall Impact | Cost Range |
| Type of Lighting | Lighting types can vary depending on your needs, such as whether you’re lighting a pathway or spotlighting architectural features. You can also choose options like low-voltage systems, solar lights, LED systems, and more. | Significant | $10 to $250 per fixture |
| Scale and Size of Project | More fixtures means a higher cost, so if your project covers a large area or requires a higher density of fixtures, expect a higher total cost. | Significant | As low as $500 for small DIY projects and up to $8500 for professionally installed high-end fixtures |
| Quality of Fixtures | High-quality materials like brass, copper, or stainless steel are more expensive than plastic or aluminum. However, these materials are generally more durable and may save you money in the long run. | Significant | $10 to $100 for standard fixtures and $250+ for high-end materials |
| Design Complexity | A simple design with a few fixtures will be much less expensive than a complex design with multiple lighting types. | Moderate | Simple designs $500+Complex designs $2000+ |
| Installation Costs | Installation costs vary based on access to installation sites, whether new electrical lines will be run, and where you are located. | Moderate | $20 to $100 per fixture |
| Automation and Controls | The more timers or dimmers you need, the higher the cost. Smart technology that integrates with home automation will be the most expensive option. | Minimal to Moderate | $50 to $500 for basic systems or $500 to $1000 for smart systems |
| Maintenance and Operating Costs | While not always an immediate factor, consider the ongoing maintenance and electricity costs to run your system. LED lights, for instance, may cost more up front, but can be less expensive to maintain. | Moderate at installation, significant in the long-term. | Varies |
Cost Comparison of DIY vs. Professional Installation
After looking at the landscape lighting cost calculator, homeowners might wonder: should you DIY your project or hire a professional? Each option has its own set of costs, benefits, and drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision that works for your budgets, skills, and desired outcome.
| Consideration | DIY Project | Hiring a Professional |
| Materials | You pay only for the materials you need, with no contractor markup. | Some contractors mark up material prices, while others pass on their wholesale prices to the homeowner. |
| Tools | Landscape lighting installation requires some tools the average homeowner doesn’t have on hand, such as trenching tools, wire crimpers, and voltage testers. | Professional landscape lighting installers will already have the best tools for the job. |
| Safety | Solar lighting and low-voltage lighting are generally safer for homeowners to install themselves. | Traditional landscape lighting and new exterior fixtures often require the expertise of a licensed electrician. |
| Time | Time is a significant factor because landscape lighting projects can be time-consuming, especially if you’re learning as you go. Factor in making multiple trips to the hardware store and the hours can add up quickly. | Hiring a professional will take the pressure off your schedule, though it comes at a price. |
| Flexibility | You can work at your own pace on your own schedule. This can be a benefit or a drawback, depending on the time you have available and if you’re good at managing home projects. | You’re at the mercy of the professional installer’s schedule, but on the upside, they will often get the job completed quickly once they get started. |
| Potential for Mistakes | Homeowners are more prone to making errors than professionals, which can cost additional time and money to fix. | Landscape lighting professionals have a high level of expertise and have done similar jobs many times, so errors are less likely. |
| Physical Labor | Installing landscape lighting can be physically demanding and can involve difficult tasks like digging trenches and handling electrical components. | Landscape lighting professionals are trained to handle the demanding parts of the job and often have tools that make the work more efficient. |
| Cost of Labor | While your own labor does cost time, it is essentially free, eliminating one of the biggest cost factors for landscape lighting installation. | Costs vary widely depending on the complexity of the design and the rates in your area, but labor tends to be one of the most expensive budget items. |
| Design and Expertise | You can be creative and plan your own project, which can be a rewarding experience. On the other hand, you may not have the expertise needed to create a functional and efficient design. | Many professionals offer design services as part of the package, so you get the benefit of an experienced eye to ensure your landscape lighting not only looks beautiful but enhances the safety and security of your property as well. |
| Warranty | Certain materials may come with a warranty, though this might be voided if not installed by a licensed professional. | Quality professionals provide warranties on both their work and the materials used, providing peace of mind for the homeowner. |
What to Look for in a Landscape Lighting Installer
If you choose to hire a landscape lighting installer, it’s important to know how to choose a professional who will bring your vision to life while also prioritizing safety, reliability, and functionality. Here are key factors and qualifications to consider when choosing a landscape lighting professional:
| Experience and Specialization | Look for professional installers with extensive experience in lighting projects, preferably one that specializes in landscape lighting. |
| Licenses and Insurance | Ensure that the installer holds all necessary local and state licenses to perform electrical work legally. Verify the professional has liability insurance to protect you in the case of accidents or damage to your property. |
| Reputation and Reviews | Check reviews on platforms like Google to get an idea of the installer’s reputation and how customers feel about their work. Look carefully for comments about professionalism, timeliness, and quality of work. |
| Quality of Products | A good installer will offer a range of products from reputable manufacturers, prioritizing quality and durability. Ask about warranties on materials and workmanship. |
| Design Services | Landscape lighting professionals should offer a free consultation to understand your project and your desired budget. Their proposal should provide plenty of details about design, layouts, and fixture types. |
| Cost Transparency | A quality installer will provide clear, detailed estimates that outline all costs involved, from fixtures and materials to labor and permits. |
| Professionalism and Communication | Good communication is the key to any project’s success. Your landscape lighting professional should respond promptly to inquiries and be clear in their communications—always with a professional and friendly demeanor. |
How Caudill’s Can Help with Your Landscape Lighting Needs
At Caudill’s, we bring over 50 years of dedicated experience to each landscape lighting project we undertake. Specializing in high-quality, custom lighting solutions, we are committed to transforming your outdoor areas into beautifully illuminated spaces that add to the curb appeal, security, and value of your property.
As a second-generation, family-owned business fully licensed and insured in the state of North Carolina, we take great pride in our proven track record and unmatched reputation. We have proudly earned an incredible 4.9 out of 5 stars from 200+ Google reviews. With our customized design services and exceptional customer support, we make sure our work exceeds your expectations from start to finish.
Reach out to us today and experience the Caudill’s difference for yourself.