How Much Does Landscape Design & Installation Cost in Chico, CA? (2026)

Average Cost

$339,365–$1,149,863

Materials

$260,240–$883,250

Labor (North Valley)

$810–$1,260

Labor rates in North Valley are -10% compared to Sacramento Metro baseline.

A full landscape design and installation project includes a professional design consultation, site analysis, plant selection, soil preparation, planting of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers, irrigation installation or modification, mulching, and any hardscape elements like walkways or borders. This comprehensive approach creates a cohesive outdoor living space tailored to Sacramento's climate. Estimate reflects NorCal pricing for 2025-2026.

Sacramento's Mediterranean climate (hot dry summers, mild wet winters) is ideal for drought-tolerant landscaping. Water-wise designs can reduce outdoor water use by 50-75% while maintaining a beautiful yard.

Chico is located in Butte County (North Valley). College town (CSU Chico) with craftsman bungalows and newer suburban growth. The local utility provider is PG&E.

Cost Calculator

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City

Square feet of landscape area

Materials Included

Shrubs, perennials & groundcovers (1-5 gal)12500 each

$100,000–$562,500

Accent/shade trees (15 gal)2 each

$160–$500

Bark mulch (bulk delivery)2500 cu yd

$75,000–$137,500

Compost & soil amendments1500 cu yd

$45,000–$82,500

Drip irrigation supplies (tubing, emitters)1 lot

$80–$250

Steel or aluminum landscape edging20000 linear ft

$40,000–$100,000

Labor(North Valley -10%)

Landscape designer5h @ $59–$90/hr

$293–$450

Landscape installer10h @ $41–$63/hr

$405–$630

Irrigation technician2.5h @ $45–$72/hr

$113–$180

Contractor Markup30%

0%Avg 30%100%

Materials

$260,240–$883,250

Labor

$810–$1,260

Markup

$78,315–$265,353

Estimated Total Cost

$339,365 – $1,149,863

$679–$2,300 per unit

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Project Timeline

Consultation & design

3-7 days

On-site consultation, measurements, soil testing, and creation of a scaled landscape plan with plant selections, hardscape layout, and irrigation zones.

Site preparation

1-2 days

Remove existing vegetation, grade the site, amend soil, and install any underground utilities (irrigation mainline, lighting conduit).

Hardscape & irrigation

2-4 days

Install walkways, borders, edging, and any structural elements. Lay irrigation lines, install drip zones, and connect the controller.

Planting & mulching

1-3 days

Plant trees, shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers per the design plan. Apply 3-4 inches of mulch across all planting beds.

Walkthrough & care instructions

1-2 hours

Walk the client through the completed landscape, demonstrate the irrigation controller, and provide a written maintenance guide for the first year.

Materials Breakdown

Material	Qty	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Shrubs, perennials & groundcovers (1-5 gal)	12500	each	$8–$45	$100,000–$562,500
Accent/shade trees (15 gal)	2	each	$80–$250	$160–$500
Bark mulch (bulk delivery)	2500	cu yd	$30–$55	$75,000–$137,500
Compost & soil amendments	1500	cu yd	$30–$55	$45,000–$82,500
Drip irrigation supplies (tubing, emitters)	1	lot	$80–$250	$80–$250
Steel or aluminum landscape edging	20000	linear ft	$2–$5	$40,000–$100,000

Landscape Design & Installation in Chico — FAQ

How much does a landscape design cost?+

Design-only fees in Sacramento range from $500-$2,500 depending on yard size and complexity. Many landscape companies waive or reduce the design fee if you hire them for the installation.

What plants work best in Sacramento's climate?+

Drought-tolerant natives like California poppies, lavender, salvia, and manzanita thrive with minimal water. For color, lantana, rosemary, and ornamental grasses are excellent low-water choices.

How long does a full landscape installation take?+

A typical front-and-back yard project takes 1-3 weeks from start to finish, depending on scope. The design phase adds 1-2 weeks before installation begins.