If you are considering professionally lighting your Northern Virginia property, you might be wondering about the cost of landscape lighting. We commend you for wanting to be an educated consumer.

We want to provide you with a quick answer if you’re just looking for a range. But if you want to understand more about what goes into the cost to install landscape lighting, we invite you to read on and learn more.

At the end of the day, we want you to have the information to choose wisely.

How much does professional landscape lighting cost?

Landscape lighting can range from a minimum of $1,500 for a small project on a compact property to upwards of $10,000+ for an outdoor living area and more.

To give you an idea, the average starting cost for some front yard lighting, such as a few lights on the walkway and some uplighting to a compact space, is around $1,500.

For a larger project, like an entire outdoor living area, you’ll likely spend more like $10,000+. Lighting these areas can be very nuanced and requires a detailed landscape lighting design.

For a larger project, keep in mind that the landscape lighting design can be phased with staggered installation. You might add a few lights at the front of your home to start and then tackle the backyard at a different time. Plus, you can add lighting as your outdoor living space expands or changes.

We know that sounds like a lot but there are many factors that contribute to the cost of landscape lighting. Let’s dive deeper into this topic to help you understand what you’re paying for and why it makes sense to invest in professional lighting.

Why is landscape lighting so expensive?

For most people, the pushback on the cost to install landscape lighting is that they assume it’s something they can do themselves…and for much cheaper. But this is a lot like comparing apples to oranges. The pack of lights you can pick up at the local big box store is not comparable to the high-quality fixtures that a professional should be installing.

A multi-pack of cheap light fixtures at Lowe’s might cost $25, whereas one of the commercial-grade, high-quality fixtures that we’re using could cost anywhere from $75 to $150 per fixture.

But a high-quality fixture is designed to withstand weather and last for many years to come. They are constructed using high-quality, weather-resistant materials like brass, copper, or aluminum. It’s nowhere on the same level. Those cheap lights simply aren’t going to last.

As far as bulbs, the best landscape lighting professionals also install the latest LED technology. This is currently the best technology out there. LED bulbs are also around 90 percent more energy efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional landscape lighting. That means, you’ll ultimately start saving money on your electricity bills and maintenance expenses over time.

Low voltage lighting is also so much safer than the old incandescent bulbs that used to be installed. There are a lot of advantages to this newest lighting that are worth investing in.

Is professional landscape lighting worth it?

When talking about landscape lighting cost, homeowners inevitably ask whether it’s really worth that investment. We completely understand. We know that the cost to install landscape lighting is not insignificant.

But here are the reasons it’s an investment that delivers maximum value.

• Strong ROI. Professional landscape lighting has always had a strong ROI. Realtors typically put it between 50 to 75 percent. Great landscape lighting adds curb appeal that increases the value of your home. It simply isn’t comparable to DIY lighting that won’t have that professional look.
• Strong “ROE.” People talk about ROI a lot but projects like these also have a strong “ROE,” which is your “return on enjoyment.” While we often think about projects around the home in terms of resale value, you’ll personally get a lot of enjoyment out of upgraded landscape lighting. When homes are well-lit, they are more functional. That means spending more time outside.
• Professional Results. We know that the landscape lighting cost sometimes drives people to consider doing these types of projects on their own. But there’s a noticeable difference between a professional job and a DIY one. With a bad landscape lighting design you could actually detract from your home’s value and appeal. You could also make mistakes that are dangerous or even that intrude on your neighbor’s property. When you pay for professional landscape lighting, there’s a big difference in the results.

Your Wise Investment in Landscape Design & Installation in Northern VA

At the end of the day, landscape lighting is one of those investments that can bring a lot of value in return. A well-lit property boosts curb appeal and home value while also making your space more functional and usable.

But the key is to choose a landscape lighting pro who can deliver that value.

By working with a landscape lighting professional who isn't going to use cheap fixtures or bulbs and who has an eye for design along with the necessary installation skills, you can end up with the best possible results. It can be a night and day difference between a home that was professionally lit and one that was not.

When it comes to getting the most out of your investment, you want to be sure to choose wisely.

If you’d like to know more about adding landscape lighting that will enhance your property in more ways than one, request a consultation, get your customized plan, and relax while we give you the royal treatment.