Your Complete Guide to Landscaping Pros in Chicago

Finding the right landscaping or lawn care professional in the Chicago metro area can feel overwhelming, especially with the region’s wide variety of property types and neighborhood aesthetics. From the manicured lawns of Hinsdale to the rooftop gardens of River North, each area presents its own set of challenges and opportunities for outdoor improvement. Whether you’re looking to create a native plant garden in Wilmette, upgrade your irrigation system in Skokie, or design a stunning backyard in Lincoln Park, hiring a skilled professional is essential to achieving your vision.

With thousands of landscaping and lawn care experts operating in the Chicago area, choosing the right one is critical. The wrong choice can lead to wasted time, unfulfilled expectations, and higher costs. This guide is here to simplify your decision-making process, helping you find professionals near you who offer expert knowledge, exceptional service, and an understanding of Chicago’s climate and landscaping trends.

How to Hire a Landscaping or Lawn Care Professional

Hiring the right landscaping or lawn care expert in Chicago involves thorough research, planning, and a clear understanding of your goals. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process and exceptional results:

1. Determine Your Project Needs and Budget

• Clearly define the scope of your project, whether it's a full landscape redesign, routine lawn maintenance, or installing an irrigation system. Write down your priorities, including any specific plants, materials, or features you'd like to include. Establish a realistic budget and leave room for unexpected costs—typically around 10–20% extra for contingencies.

2. Research and Shortlist Pros

• Start by searching for landscaping and lawn care professionals in your area through trusted directories like The Builder Market. Look for pros with strong customer reviews, portfolios of completed work, and relevant certifications. Create a shortlist of candidates whose expertise matches your project's requirements.

3. Request Detailed Estimates

• Get written, itemized estimates from each professional to compare costs and included services. Ensure that the quotes cover labor, materials, and any additional fees like permit applications. Beware of vague estimates, as they could lead to hidden costs later.

4. Check References and Past Work

• Review portfolios of previous projects and follow up with references to ask about their experiences. Focus on punctuality, quality of work, and communication. If possible, visit completed projects in person to assess the quality of their craftsmanship and plant selections.

5. Ask the Right Questions

• How many years have you been in the landscaping or lawn care business?

  Do you handle design, installation, and maintenance, or do I need separate contractors?

  How do you approach sustainability (e.g., water-saving techniques, native plants)?

  Do you use subcontractors, and if so, how do you vet them?

6. Understand the Contract Terms

• Before signing a contract, review it thoroughly to ensure all project details are clearly outlined, including the timeline, budget, materials, and maintenance plans. Confirm warranty details for plants, irrigation systems, or any hardscaping features.

Most Common Projects & Costs

Landscaping and lawn care projects in Los Angeles encompass a wide variety of services, from basic maintenance to full-scale outdoor transformations. Below is an overview of common landscaping and lawn care services, including estimated costs categorized into low, mid, and high ranges, as well as average hourly rates.

Product Type	Low Range	Mid Range	High Range
Lawn Mowing (per visit)	$35	$50	$90+
Landscape Design	$600	$2,000	$9,000+
Sod Installation (per sq. ft.)	$1.20	$2.00	$4.50+
Tree Trimming	$200	$350	$900+
Irrigation System Installation	$1,800	$2,800	$5,500+
Patio or Walkway Installation	$2,200	$4,500	$9,000+
Full Yard Makeover	$6,000	$12,000	$45,000+

Common Hiring Issues and Challenges When Working with Landscaping and Lawn Care Professionals (and How to Avoid Them)

Hiring a landscaping or lawn care professional can enhance your outdoor space, but challenges can arise during the process. Here are some common issues homeowners face and actionable tips to avoid or address them effectively:

1. Poor Communication

Problem: Miscommunication about design preferences, timelines, or budgets can lead to unsatisfactory results or delays.

How to Avoid:

• Clearly articulate your vision during the initial consultation, using examples, photos, or sketches to convey your ideas.
• Schedule regular progress updates to ensure alignment.
• Document all agreements, including any changes in scope, to avoid misunderstandings.

2. Budget Overruns

Problem: Unexpected costs for materials or labor can cause projects to exceed the initial budget.

How to Avoid:

• Request a comprehensive, itemized estimate before work begins.
• Build a contingency budget (10–20%) for unforeseen expenses.
• Discuss potential upgrades or add-ons during the initial planning stage.

3. Delayed Timelines

Problem: Weather delays, supply chain disruptions, or scheduling conflicts can push back project completion.

How to Avoid:

• Choose a professional with a history of completing projects on schedule.
• Ask about contingency plans for weather or supply issues.

4. Poor Workmanship

Problem: Using low-quality materials or poor craftsmanship can result in substandard results and additional costs for repairs.

How to Avoid:

• Review portfolios of past work and check online reviews.
• Periodically inspect the progress to ensure quality and adherence to plans.

5. Licensing and Insurance Concerns

Problem: Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured professional can expose you to financial and legal risks.

How to Avoid:

• Verify that the professional is licensed and insured.
• Confirm they carry general liability insurance and worker’s compensation if applicable.

6. Lack of Maintenance or Post-Project Support

Problem: Some professionals do not offer ongoing maintenance or warranties for their work.

How to Avoid:

• Inquire about warranties for labor and materials before hiring.
• Discuss options for regular maintenance services, such as seasonal lawn care or irrigation checks.

How We Made Our Recommendations

Our goal was to create a reliable and trustworthy list of landscaping pros in Los Angeles. To ensure the highest quality recommendations, we followed a thorough and objective evaluation process based on the following criteria:

Verified Credentials

We began by confirming that every contractor held a valid and active license with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Additionally, we required proof of general liability insurance and worker' compensation coverage to protect homeowners from unexpected risks.

Customer Reviews & Satisfaction

We analyzed reviews from multiple platforms, including Google, Yelp, and Angi, to identify contractors with consistent positive feedback. Testimonials highlighting punctuality, professionalism, and quality of work were given significant weight in our recommendations.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

We included contractors capable of handling a wide variety of projects, from full-scale renovations and new home construction to specialized tasks like sustainable building practices or historic home restoration. A broad skill set ensures homeowners can find the right professional for their unique needs.

Transparent Pricing

Affordability matters, but transparency matters more. We recommended contractors who provide clear, itemized estimates that leave no room for surprises. Contractors who balance fair pricing with value-added services received higher consideration.

Awards & Industry Recognition

Membership in reputable organizations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB), added credibility. We also factored in any industry awards or accolades that highlight exceptional craftsmanship or customer service.