What is the Most Expensive Part of Landscaping in Colorado Springs?

When homeowners in Colorado Springs decide to transform their outdoor spaces, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “What will this cost me?” While landscaping projects can range dramatically in price—from a modest $5,000 to well over $100,000—understanding which elements drive up costs can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions about your investment.

If you’re planning a landscaping project in the Pikes Peak region, you need to know that hardscaping features, particularly retaining walls and patios, typically represent the most expensive components of any comprehensive landscape design. Let’s explore why these features command premium prices and what other cost factors Colorado Springs homeowners should consider.

Hardscaping refers to the non-living elements of your landscape—the structures built from concrete, stone, brick, and other durable materials. In Colorado Springs, hardscape projects average between $3,211 and $4,615, though they can range from $1,102 to $8,305 depending on scope and materials.

Why are hardscape features so expensive? The answer lies in several factors:
 

• Material Costs: Quality hardscaping materials carry significant price tags. Natural flagstone, for instance, costs considerably more than basic concrete, but provides superior aesthetics and longevity. The choice between budget-friendly options and premium materials can swing your project costs dramatically.
• Labor Intensity: Hardscaping requires skilled labor, specialized equipment, and time-consuming installation processes. Professional landscaping companies in Colorado typically charge between $50 and $100 per hour for a two-person crew. When you factor in excavation, grading, base preparation, and precise installation, labor costs accumulate quickly.
• Engineering Requirements: Colorado Springs presents unique challenges, particularly on the west side of town. Neighborhoods west of Colorado Springs often face logistical challenges not seen in flatter areas east of town, and Hillside Overlay areas may require engineering and special approval by the city, contributing to the end cost.

Of all hardscaping elements, retaining walls frequently emerge as the single most expensive feature. Retaining walls can cost a minimum of $1,000 but commonly reach $5,000 or more, depending on materials used and the height and length of the wall.

Why do retaining walls command such high prices?

Structural Engineering: Unlike decorative features, retaining walls must withstand significant soil pressure and manage water flow. In Colorado Springs’ varied terrain, many properties require retaining walls to manage slopes, prevent erosion, and create usable outdoor spaces. This structural importance demands proper engineering and construction techniques.

Material Variety: Homeowners can choose from several retaining wall types, each with different price points:

• Wood walls offer the most affordable initial cost but require more frequent replacement
• Mortared walls using brick or stone provide durability and extensive customization options at mid-to-high price points
• Segmented retaining walls use interlocking blocks, offering a balance between durability and affordability

Drainage Systems: Professional retaining walls require proper drainage systems behind them to prevent water pressure buildup that could cause wall failure. This adds both materials and labor to the project cost.

Longevity: When properly constructed, retaining walls in Colorado Springs can last 50 to 100 years, depending on groundwater conditions and soil quality. This long-term value justifies the substantial initial investment.

While hardscaping often takes the largest bite from your landscaping budget, irrigation systems represent another significant expense that Colorado Springs homeowners must consider. In Colorado Springs, sprinkler system costs range from $1,700 to $3,700 for a three to five-zone system, with installation typically costing $600 to $700 per zone.

Several factors influence irrigation costs:
 

• Property Size and Complexity: For an average quarter-acre lawn, installation costs run $1,700 to $3,800, while a one-acre yard can cost $7,000 to $13,000. Oddly shaped yards requiring additional zones or properties with low water pressure needing extra zones will push costs higher.
• Water Source: Properties connected to city water generally cost less to irrigate than those requiring pumps for well or lake water. Access to high-pressure city water can reduce the number of zones needed, lowering overall costs.
• System Sophistication: Smart irrigation controllers that monitor weather, soil conditions, climate, temperature, water use, and evaporation rates deliver 30-50% water savings. While these advanced systems cost more upfront, they can significantly reduce water bills in Colorado’s semi-arid climate.
• Colorado’s Unique Climate: Colorado’s elevation, arid climate, and strict local water ordinances from the Colorado Water Conservation Board mean that keeping your yard healthy takes more work and smarter planning. This makes efficient irrigation not just a luxury but a necessity for maintaining a healthy landscape.

Before any shovel hits the ground, professional landscape design represents another substantial cost that homeowners sometimes overlook. In the Colorado Springs area, landscape design costs start at $767 for a quarter-acre property and can reach $2,087 or more for half-acre or larger landscapes.

Some designers charge even more. Well-known designers may charge as high as $6,000 for detailed plans and drawings. However, this investment in proper design can actually save money by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring efficient use of your property’s unique characteristics.

Quality design services typically include:
 

• Site analysis and measurements
• 3D renderings that help you visualize the final product
• Material specifications within your budget
• Grading and drainage plans
• Plant selection appropriate for Colorado Springs’ climate
• Phased implementation plans for budget-conscious homeowners

While generally less expensive than hardscaping, softscaping—the living elements of your landscape—still requires careful budgeting:

Sod Installation: Sod costs approximately $0.55 per square foot, meaning a 2,000 square foot lawn requires around $1,100 just for materials, or $3,000 for professional installation. Alternatively, grass seed costs about $0.05 per square foot, so a 2,000 square foot lawn costs around $100 for seed or $500 for professional seeding.

Trees and Shrubs: Mature trees and quality shrubs represent significant investments. Professional tree trimming can cost $250 to $500 per tree, with complex jobs reaching $1,000.

Pathways and Walkways: Pathway installation costs between $8 and $22 per square foot, and pathways can be built for approximately $500 to $800, while sidewalks typically cost $400 to $700.

Don’t forget about administrative costs. Large projects, particularly retaining walls and water features, often require permits from local authorities. Working with professional contractors who understand Colorado Springs’ building codes can streamline this process, but permit costs should be factored into your budget.

While not part of the initial installation cost, maintenance expenses should influence your landscaping decisions. Drought-tolerant native plants and efficient irrigation systems reduce long-term water bills—an important consideration in Colorado Springs’ semi-arid climate.

Most full-scale landscaping projects in Colorado Springs typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 per yard, with most projects landing in the $20,000 to $35,000 range, though some projects can exceed $100,000.

A useful rule of thumb: homeowners should plan to spend at least 10% of their home’s value on landscaping. This means a $400,000 home would warrant a $40,000 landscaping budget for a comprehensive, quality installation.

Understanding that hardscaping—particularly retaining walls, patios, and outdoor structures—represents the most expensive component of landscaping helps you approach your project strategically. Here are some tips for managing costs:

Prioritize Functionality: Focus first on elements that solve problems (erosion control, drainage, creating usable space) before adding purely decorative features.

Phase Your Project: You don’t have to complete everything at once. Install essential hardscaping and irrigation first, then add softscaping and decorative elements over time as your budget allows.

Invest in Quality Where It Matters: Skimp on structural elements like retaining walls or irrigation systems, and you’ll likely pay more in repairs and replacements down the road. Conversely, you might save money by using more modest materials for purely decorative features.

Choose Native Plants: Colorado Springs’ climate rewards those who select drought-tolerant, native plants. They require less water, less maintenance, and better withstand the region’s temperature extremes.

Get Multiple Quotes: Reputable contractors provide detailed estimates and explain costs clearly. Compare several quotes to ensure fair pricing, but remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value.

While the costs of landscaping in Colorado Springs can seem daunting, remember that quality landscaping is an investment that pays dividends. A well-landscaped property can increase home value by 28 percent.

Beyond the financial return, a thoughtfully designed landscape provides:
 

• Enhanced curb appeal that makes your home stand out
• Additional outdoor living space for family activities and entertaining
• Reduced energy costs through strategic placement of trees and shrubs
• Lower water bills with efficient irrigation and drought-tolerant plants
• Personal enjoyment and connection with Colorado’s beautiful outdoor environment

For Colorado Springs homeowners, hardscaping features—especially retaining walls, patios, and similar structures—typically represent the most expensive part of any landscaping project. When combined with professional irrigation systems and quality design services, these elements form the foundation of your outdoor investment.

By understanding where costs accumulate and why, you can make informed decisions that balance your budget with your vision for your outdoor space. Whether you’re addressing practical needs like erosion control or creating a mountain retreat in your backyard, knowing that hardscaping will likely consume the largest portion of your budget helps you plan realistically and invest wisely.

Working with experienced Colorado Springs landscaping professionals who understand the region’s unique terrain, climate challenges, and regulatory requirements ensures that your investment—whether $20,000 or $100,000—creates an outdoor space that enhances both your property value and your quality of life for decades to come.

Fredell Enterprises has been creating award-winning landscapes in Colorado Springs for more than 40 years. Our team offers full-service landscape architecture, design, and construction, blending form, function, and sustainability to bring your outdoor vision to life.

Whether you’re envisioning a custom patio, retaining wall, water feature, or drought-tolerant garden, Fredell’s experienced designers can help you plan and build a landscape that enhances your home and fits your budget.

Explore Fredell’s full range of services at https://www.coloradolandscapedesign.com/services/ or contact us directly through our contact page to start your project today.