Building a new home or finishing a major renovation? Use this Landscaping Budget Guide for Toronto & GTA to get prepared for the final stages. Once the dust settles inside, your property’s exterior often looks unfinished. Landscaping is the step that ties everything together — and in Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, and Vaughan, it’s not just about curb appeal. A smart landscaping budget adds function, durability, and long-term value to your home.
The challenge? Many homeowners underestimate landscaping costs or leave them as an afterthought. Done right, landscaping can account for 10–20% of your property’s total value. Done wrong, it can lead to drainage issues, premature repairs, and a yard that never feels “finished.”
Here’s how to budget like a pro.
Why Landscaping Budgets Matter in Toronto & Mississauga
Toronto’s and Mississauga’s climate is demanding. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rainfall, and dense urban lots require resilient designs and quality installation. A well-planned landscape:
- Boosts property value immediately.
- Prevents costly drainage or erosion issues.
- Creates outdoor living spaces you’ll actually use.
- Reduces long-term maintenance headaches.
Think of landscaping as the foundation of your home’s first impression. It’s what every guest, client, or potential buyer sees first.
Hardscape vs. Softscape: Where to Spend First
When setting a budget, split your project into hardscape and softscape.
Hardscape (infrastructure & structure):
- Interlock driveways & walkways
- Patios & outdoor living areas
- Retaining walls & steps
- Drainage & irrigation systems
- Outdoor lighting
- Privacy fencing or stone walls
Softscape (greenery & finishing touches):
- Trees, shrubs, and perennial plantings
- Sod installation or seeding
- Garden beds, mulch, groundcover
- Seasonal flowers
For most homeowners, hardscape comes first. Without proper grading, drainage, and durable materials, plants and lawns won’t thrive — and you risk costly repairs.
Landscaping Costs in the GTA: What to Expect
Every project is unique, but here are local averages to guide your budget:
- Interlock Driveway (2-car): $15,000–$25,000
- Retaining Wall (per linear foot): $150–$300
- Interlock Patio: $18–$40 per sq. ft.
- Irrigation System: $3,500–$6,500
- 12-Volt LED Lighting: $2,000–$5,000
- Tree Planting: $300–$1,200 per tree
- Sod Installation: $3 per sq. ft.
👉 For a full-property landscaping project after a new build in Toronto or Mississauga, expect $40,000–$120,000 depending on design, materials, and scope.
Maintenance & Long-Term Savings
Budgeting doesn’t stop at installation. Factor in long-term upkeep:
- Low-maintenance option: Native plants, drip irrigation, stone mulch.
- High-maintenance option: Weekly lawn care, annual flowers, large gardens.
Quality parts matter. That’s why we use Hunter and Rain Bird irrigation systems — they save water, lower bills, and extend the life of your softscape investments.
Budget Flexibility and Phased Projects
Not ready to do it all at once? Many GTA homeowners phase their projects to match budget flow:
- Phase 1: Driveway, grading, drainage, retaining walls.
- Phase 2: Patio, walkways, irrigation, lighting.
- Phase 3: Sod, trees, shrubs, garden beds.
This keeps your property functional and beautiful while spreading out costs.
Choosing the Right Landscaping Contractor in Toronto
Hiring the cheapest contractor may seem tempting, but poor workmanship can double your costs within a few years. Look for:
- A proven portfolio and 5-star Google reviews.
- Warranties (minimum 3 year warranty on all workmanship).
- WSIB coverage and liability insurance.
- Knowledge of Ontario’s climate and building codes.
Final Thoughts: Balancing Value & Design
Landscaping after a new build or renovation is exciting — but it requires careful planning. Whether you’re installing interlock paving in Toronto, building a retaining wall in Mississauga, or creating a full outdoor retreat in Oakville, remember:
- Prioritize infrastructure first.
- Budget realistically (and include a 10–15% contingency).
- Hire experienced contractors who build for durability.
Your outdoor space should be as functional and beautiful as the home it surrounds. With the right plan and budget, you’ll have a landscape that stands the test of time.
👉 Ready to plan your project? Contact us today for a consultation — let’s design a landscape that outperforms and outlasts.
Landscaping Budget Guide for Toronto- FAQs
How much should I budget for landscaping in Toronto?
Most homeowners budget $40,000–$120,000 for full-property landscaping after a new build, depending on size, design, and material choices.
What is the average cost of interlock paving in Mississauga?
Expect $20–$40 per sq. ft. for interlock patios and $15,000–$25,000 for a standard 2-car driveway.
Should I install irrigation before or after softscaping?
Always install irrigation before planting sod, trees, or gardens to avoid tearing up finished work later.
Can I phase landscaping to spread out the budget?
Yes — many GTA homeowners start with grading, drainage, and hardscape, then add softscape and finishing touches in later phases.