NYC Backyard Landscaping & Remodeling Costs

Thinking about landscaping your New York City backyard but worried about the price tag? This guide will break down the common elements that influence landscaping costs in NYC, from patios and fencing to lighting and building codes. We’ll also discuss how to get help from a general contractor to keep costs in check. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect and how to create your dream outdoor space without overspending.

Enjoy a change of scenery in your own home. Outdoor spaces present an increase in living space and an upgrade to lifestyle. However, not all backyards are ready for “prime time” and a remodel is in order. NYC landscaping costs for the backyard include scope, flooring, demolition, fencing, electrical, and structures.

Fortunately, every outdoor space can be improved substantially with some great ideas and expert help. Our guide will help you understand the most common elements to consider in NYC with some tips from our Sweeten contractors. 

Building an outdoor space: Where to start

Outdoor spaces can range from simple patios to elaborate outdoor kitchens. Your home’s potential is limited by three primary factors: available space, budget, and building codes. Of these, building codes might be the most confusing and inflexible.

Building codes exist primarily for safety and must be adhered to or adjusted through design changes. While not overly burdensome for most outdoor projects, setbacks can be a challenge. This means you may not be able to build right up to the property line in certain areas. A skilled NYC contractor can guide you through design choices that align with your vision and comply with local regulations.

Space and budget are more straightforward. Your contractor can provide insights into buildable areas and estimate costs for essential and optional features. Researching and collecting images of inspiring outdoor spaces can help you visualize your dream design and create a personalized plan.

(Above) General contractor Santiago renovated this backyard space for Sweeten homeowner KV Harper

Backyard landscaping cost: Outdoor flooring 

Knowing how you want to use your space is the first step to setting the budget. The outdoor-room concept is multi-faceted. Some people don’t want much besides a table for meals, others want to sunbathe, some want a spa, and the cooks want a full kitchen. Whatever your wants, you’ll have to start at the bottom: what you walk on. 

If you have an existing patio or roof to use, great, then you can move on to other elements. If your space does need some help with the flooring, though, you’ll find a host of possibilities. One of the most popular options, according to Sweeten contractor Santiago in New York, is bluestone patios. This material is durable and beautiful, if fairly expensive. 

At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work closely with hundreds of general contractors every day. So, we’ve tapped our internal expertise to bring you this guide.

Bluestone pavers cost

Bluestone remains a popular choice for natural stone pavers, offering beauty, durability, and versatility. Cut bluestone pavers typically range from around $8 to $12 per square foot for 1″ thick stone, with prices varying based on size, quality, and availability.

Smaller stones (approximately 12″ square) can create a distinct aesthetic compared to large slabs and are often easier to handle. Access can be a challenge in urban areas, potentially requiring a crane for larger, heavier stones. Crane rental costs can exceed $2,000, not including stone and site preparation.

Smaller sizes are generally more manageable and can be transported by hand if necessary. Consider your project’s specific needs and budget when selecting bluestone pavers to ensure the best fit for your outdoor space.

Concrete pavers cost

To spend less, “Concrete pavers are available in dozens of size and color options for $4–5/square foot,” Santiago said. In addition, they don’t need a crane for installation. Installation for both concrete and stone pavers will be the same, with costs varying depending on the current base rather than the material you choose. 

Calculating your backyard landscaping costs

An important factor in determining cost is the amount of demolition work. That type of work will vary by what you have in place now, so contractors don’t want to guess on costs. Do you have an existing patio that must be removed? Or grass? How good is the access? Are you working on the ground floor or higher up?

There are so many variables that rough estimates without seeing the site aren’t possible, our contractors said. They need to see what’s there first and learn what you want before they can give an estimate. Post your project on Sweeten to discuss the possibilities. “I have to look at the job; two jobs are never alike. Labor is not easy to price. There are a lot of elements factoring in,” Santiago noted.

NYC-based Sweeten general contractor Steve concurred, saying that there are backyard remodeling jobs where all materials have to come in and out through the front door. “A lot of the time you have to take the garbage out through the first floor, out the basement, or out the window. Everything has to be protected.”

(Above) Sweeten homeowner Jessica’s deck renovation

In addition to patios, decks are popular and sometimes do not require demolition and hauling out old materials. Decks can offer great flexibility in fitting into existing spaces, and they can also be particularly budget-friendly by overlaying an existing shabby concrete slab, saving the cost and hassle of demolition and removal.

When to start planning your outdoor space

Enjoy your green space for the summer by starting the process early. Use the summer months prior to gather inspiration. In the Fall, begin planning with an architect/designer/contractor on design, landscaping, and materials. By December submit permits, hire your contractor, and order materials (keep delivery times in mind). Demolition should break ground by March/April. Depending on the complexity of the project, an outdoor remodel typically takes two months to finish. Although an outdoor kitchen requiring plumbing, gas, and electrical could take longer for approvals vs a deck remodel. 

Creating fencing and perimeter walls

Fences and walls, too, are basic elements of most projects, and serve several functions. Privacy is usually a main concern, but view control and wind control are also important. Most people opt for wood fences, said Steve. As for design elements, “People in general want big wide planks; materials that are more architectural looking, with bright backgrounds,” he said.

“It depends on each client. Some people want a lot of space for seating. For all intents and purposes it’s an outside living room,” he noted. Fences offer a lot of design freedom, as well, including horizontal and vertical elements, natural wood tones or painted surfaces, and using wood, stone, and/or metal. “Most people do wood fencing,” Sweeten contractor Santiago said, “some choose pressure-treated, while others opt for cedar. It depends on the budget.”

Outdoor lighting

Some details, such as lighting, are easy to overlook at first. It’s a major element in both ambiance and usability, however, and should be tackled at the design stage rather than tacked on later.

“Everyone is into lighting,” Santiago said. “For this, you’ll need to factor in outlets. Floodlights can accent the plants. They can be simple but very cool.” Lighting and electrical are simple and easy compared to some other elements, but they require planning for running buried lines and removing overhead lines. When your contractor has a design for you, then it’s time to consider the lighting based on function. Lighting in the dining area is different from lighting for walkways and for plants. It’s all part of the design process.

Adding pergolas and arbors

As another distinct element, pergolas and arbors provide shade, structure, and beauty to your outdoor room, as well as an often-needed vertical feature. Arbors are simple and small structures that often frame a pathway, while pergolas are larger and more substantial, sometimes attached to the house. You might train vines or climbing roses on the arbor, for example. Pergolas can use a slatted, cloth, or solid roofing material, making them flexible so you have both sun and shelter in your yard.

Landscaping front yard options

In New York City, front yard spaces aren’t as common, but you can still add natural beauty. In addition to using fine materials for your front entry, steps, and railing, do you have room for planters? If you like plants, this is a great option for tight spaces and lets you add some color and texture. If live plants are too much work or tough to keep alive, planters can also house durable and seasonal items like spruce tops. 

You can see a multitude of high-quality planters and pots online, and talk with your contractor about building some that fit your space exactly. Many people choose cedar for this project, as it’s beautiful and relatively rot-resistant. Other woods work fine, too, and can look great finished in paint or stain. Add your ideas to your photo montage and discuss with your renovation team.

Landscaping costs for homes in New York City can be tough to estimate without a visit from several firms. When you’re ready to get started on your home or outdoor remodel, work with the right local contractor to get you to your dream space. 

Ready to start planning?

Find endless home renovation inspiration, detailed guides, and practical cost breakdowns from our blogs. You can also post your project on Sweeten today and get matched with our vetted general contractors for free!