The cost to install landscape lighting depends on the size of your property, the type of fixtures you choose, and whether the system is hardwired or low-voltage. Landscape lighting adds curb appeal, improves safety, and extends the usability of your outdoor spaces after dark. This guide covers typical costs, what affects pricing, and when to hire a professional.
Contents
- 1 What Affects Landscape Lighting Installation Costs
- 2 Average Cost to Install Landscape Lighting
- 3 Low-Voltage vs. Line-Voltage Landscape Lighting
- 4 Trenching and Underground Wiring Costs
- 5 Additional Cost Factors
- 6 When to Hire a Licensed Electrician
- 7 Tips for Keeping Costs Down
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions
⚡ Key Takeaways
- No two landscape lighting projects are identical.
- Most homeowners spend between $2,000 and $6,000 for a professionally installed landscape lighting system covering a standard-sized front or backyard.
- The majority of residential landscape lighting systems use low-voltage (12V) wiring, which is safer, easier to install, and less expensive than standard line-voltage systems.
What Affects Landscape Lighting Installation Costs
No two landscape lighting projects are identical. The total price depends on several variables that can push costs up or down significantly. Key factors include:
- Number and type of fixtures (path lights, spotlights, uplights, etc.)
- Whether the system is low-voltage (12V) or line-voltage (120V)
- Size and layout of the area being lit
- Existing outdoor outlets and wiring availability
- Need for underground wiring or trenching
- Local labor rates and permit requirements
Average Cost to Install Landscape Lighting
Most homeowners spend between $2,000 and $6,000 for a professionally installed landscape lighting system covering a standard-sized front or backyard. Smaller projects with fewer fixtures cost less, while large properties with complex designs can exceed $10,000. Here is a general breakdown by fixture type:
- Pathway lights: $75 – $200 per fixture installed
- Spotlights or uplights: $100 – $300 per fixture installed
- Well lights (in-ground): $150 – $400 per fixture installed
- Deck or step lights: $100 – $250 per fixture installed
- Low-voltage transformer: $50 – $300 (higher-wattage units cost more)
- Full system installation (12–20 lights): $1,500 – $5,000
Low-Voltage vs. Line-Voltage Landscape Lighting
The majority of residential landscape lighting systems use low-voltage (12V) wiring, which is safer, easier to install, and less expensive than standard line-voltage systems. Low-voltage systems run off a transformer plugged into an existing outdoor GFCI outlet and are legal for homeowner installation in most areas.
Line-voltage landscape lighting — used for high-powered fixtures, permanent architectural lighting, or commercial applications — requires licensed electrical work and permits. These systems cost more upfront but deliver stronger output and greater durability.
Trenching and Underground Wiring Costs
If your landscape lighting requires underground wiring runs — common for fixtures far from the house or in-ground well lights — trenching adds to the total cost. Expect to pay:
- Trenching labor: $4 – $12 per linear foot
- Conduit materials: $1 – $3 per linear foot
- Backfill and restoration: Included in most quotes or $1 – $5 per foot
A 50-foot underground wiring run might add $250 – $750 to the project total.
Additional Cost Factors
Smart Lighting Controls
Smart landscape lighting systems with app control, scheduling, and zone management add $200 – $800 to the base cost but provide significant convenience and energy savings over time.
Timer or Photocell Controls
Adding a timer or dusk-to-dawn photocell sensor to automatically control when lights turn on and off costs $20 – $100 for the hardware, plus labor to install.
Permit Fees
Line-voltage landscape lighting typically requires a permit in most jurisdictions. Permit fees range from $50 – $200 and may be included in the electrician’s estimate.
Landscape lighting costs depend on the number of fixtures, wire runs, and transformer size. Our team provides upfront quotes — contact us for a free estimate.
When to Hire a Licensed Electrician
While low-voltage landscape lighting is DIY-friendly — though any line-voltage work must meet National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements —, hire a licensed electrician for:
- Line-voltage (120V) fixture installation
- Adding new outdoor circuits or GFCI outlets
- Extensive underground wiring runs
- Projects requiring permits or inspections
- Integrating landscape lighting into a smart home system
Professional installation ensures all connections are weatherproof, code-compliant, and safe for long-term outdoor exposure.
Tips for Keeping Costs Down
- Start with a low-voltage system — it delivers great results at a fraction of the cost of line-voltage
- Install multiple fixtures in a single project visit to reduce labor costs
- Choose LED fixtures to minimize energy consumption and bulb replacement
- Plan the layout yourself and share it with your electrician to reduce design fees
- Get multiple quotes from licensed electricians before committing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is landscape lighting worth the investment?
Yes. Professionally installed landscape lighting increases curb appeal, improves home security, and extends outdoor living hours. It can also add perceived value to your property when it comes time to sell.
How many lights do I need for my yard?
This depends on your yard size and goals. A typical front yard pathway might use 6–10 lights, while a larger backyard with trees and garden beds could use 20 or more. A lighting designer or electrician can help you plan the right coverage.
Can landscape lighting be left on all night?
Yes, especially LED fixtures, which are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. Using a timer or photocell controller is recommended to automate the on/off cycle and further reduce energy costs.
How long does landscape lighting installation take?
A standard low-voltage system with 10–15 fixtures typically takes 4–8 hours to install. Larger or more complex systems with underground wiring may take a full day or more.