Cost Guides

Cost of Landscaping in Denver (2025 Guide)

Denver's semi-arid climate, water restrictions, and 300+ days of sunshine create a unique landscaping environment. Whether you're installing a new lawn, converting to xeriscape, or adding a sprinkler system, here's what Denver homeowners actually pay.

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Key Takeaways

1
Xeriscape conversion in Denver: $8,000–$20,000 with up to $1,500 in Denver Water rebates
2
Sprinkler system installation: $2,500–$6,000 for a typical residential lot
3
Winterization ($75–$150) is essential — frozen lines are the most preventable damage
4
Denver's clay soil often requires amendment — factor $500–$2,000 into planting projects

Average Landscaping Costs in Denver

Basic lawn maintenance (mow, edge, blow): $40–$80 per visit. Monthly maintenance contract: $150–$400/month.

Sprinkler system installation: $2,500–$6,000 for a typical Denver residential lot.

Full landscape design and installation: $5,000–$30,000+ depending on scope.

Xeriscape conversion: $8,000–$20,000 for a typical front and back yard.

Sod installation: $2–$4/sq ft installed. A 2,000 sq ft lawn: $4,000–$8,000.

Denver's Water Challenge and Xeriscaping

Denver Water enforces tiered pricing and seasonal restrictions that make traditional grass lawns increasingly expensive. Many homeowners are converting to xeriscape — drought-tolerant landscaping using 50–75% less water.

Modern Denver xeriscaping uses native plants (Blue Grama grass, Penstemon, Salvia), decorative rock, mulch, and drip irrigation.

Denver Water rebates: up to $1.50/sq ft for turf removal and xeriscape conversion. A 1,000 sq ft conversion can earn $1,500 in rebates.

Sprinkler System Costs in Denver

New installation: $2,500–$6,000 for a typical residential lot (6–10 zones).

Sprinkler repair: $75–$200 for minor repairs; $300–$800 for head replacement or zone repairs.

Winterization (blowout): $75–$150. Essential in Denver — frozen lines are the most common and preventable damage.

Smart controller installation: $200–$500. Qualifies for Denver Water rebates and reduces water usage 15–30%.

What Drives Landscaping Cost Up

Slope and grading: significant slope adds 20–40% to installation cost. Soil amendment: Denver's clay-heavy soil often requires amendment before planting — add $500–$2,000. Tree removal: $500–$2,000 per tree. Retaining walls: $25–$50/sq ft for concrete block; $50–$100/sq ft for natural stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a sprinkler system cost in Denver?

A new sprinkler system in Denver costs $2,500–$6,000 for a typical residential lot with 6–10 zones. Smart controller upgrades add $200–$500 and qualify for Denver Water rebates.

What is xeriscaping and how much does it cost in Denver?

Xeriscaping uses drought-tolerant native plants and efficient irrigation to reduce water use by 50–75%. A full front and back yard xeriscape conversion costs $8,000–$20,000. Denver Water offers rebates up to $1.50/sq ft for turf removal.

When should I winterize my sprinkler system in Denver?

Winterize before the first hard freeze — typically late September to mid-October in Denver. Cost is $75–$150. Skipping winterization risks cracked pipes and heads costing $300–$800+ to repair.

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