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The Big Question: How Much Does it Cost to Landscape a Backyard in Colorado?
December 01, 2025
By Nature’s Way Landscapes
When you look out your back window, you probably have a vision. Maybe it’s a quiet morning coffee on a new patio, a safe grassy area for the kids to run, or simply a space that finally feels like yours.
But before the design begins, there is always that one big, looming question: "How much should I budget for this?"
At Nature’s Way, we believe in honesty. The truth is, we can't give you an exact number until we see your property. Every yard in the Front Range is unique—access issues, slope, existing soil conditions, and material choices all play a huge role in the final price.
However, we can help you understand what a realistic budget looks like. Based on projects we’ve completed across Westminster, Broomfield, and the Front Range, here are the typical investment ranges homeowners see for different levels of transformation.
Tier 1: The "Refresh & Restore"
Typical Investment Range: $15,000 – $35,000+
(Note: Costs vary based on yard size and site access)
This tier is ideal if you have a "blank slate" from a new build or an old yard that just needs a fresh start. The goal here is to create a clean, green, and functional foundation.
What this typically includes:
Professional Design: A simple plan to maximize space.
Irrigation: A smart sprinkler and drip system (essential for our dry climate).
Softscapes: Soil amendment (to fix our Colorado clay), sod installation, rock mulch, and a selection of young trees and shrubs.
Edging: Steel edging to keep your rock and grass separate.
Tier 2: The "Outdoor Living" Extension
Typical Investment Range: $40,000 – $80,000+
This is where your backyard stops being just a "yard" and starts becoming an extension of your home. In this tier, we introduce hardscapes—permanent structures where you can gather, eat, and relax.
What this typically includes:
Everything in Tier 1 (Irrigation & Planting), plus...
Hardscapes: A custom paver patio or walkway (approx. 300-500 sq. ft.).
Gathering Spots: A built-in gas fire pit or a simple seating wall.
Lighting: Low-voltage LED landscape lighting to let you enjoy the space after sunset.
Mature Planting: Larger specimen trees for immediate privacy and shade.
Tier 3: The "Custom Sanctuary"
Typical Investment Range: $90,000 – $200,000
This is the full transformation. It’s for homeowners who want their backyard to be their primary destination for relaxation—a personal retreat that rivals a mountain resort.
What this typically includes:
Everything in Tier 2, plus...
Premium Hardscapes: Large, multi-level patios using premium pavers or natural stone.
Features: An outdoor kitchen island, a pergola for shade, or a custom water feature.
Terrain Management: Decorative retaining walls to manage slopes or create terraced gardens.
Audio/Visual: Integrated outdoor sound systems.
Tier 4: The "Resort at Home"
Typical Investment Range: $200,000+
This level isn't just a renovation; it is a major construction project that fundamentally changes how you live. At this level, we are often building complex structures and managing significant engineering to create a legacy property.
What this typically includes:
Complex Structures: Covered pavilions with finished roofs, heating, and TV walls.
Chef’s Kitchens: Full outdoor kitchens with pizza ovens, fridges, bar seating, and running water.
Luxury Elements: Pools, spas, or extensive custom masonry work.
Automation: Fully integrated smart-home control.
Why Do Prices Vary So Much?
You might wonder why one patio costs more than another. Beyond the size, three main factors influence your final quote:
Access: Can we get a machine into your backyard, or do we have to wheelbarrow everything by hand? (Hand labor adds time and cost).
Soil Conditions: We often have to excavate and remove tons of heavy clay soil and import rich compost so your plants can actually survive.
Materials: There is a wide difference in cost between standard concrete pavers and premium natural stone.
A Real-World Example: The "Miller" Family in Westminster
To give you a concrete idea of how these numbers come together, let's look at a recent project. The "Millers" (name changed for privacy) wanted a destination—somewhere to unwind after work that felt like an escape.
The Design: We created a unified outdoor living space featuring approximately 700 square feet of paver patio, connecting a main gathering area to a smaller, cozy nook. To anchor the space, we installed a 10x10 cedar pergola, a gas fire pit, and several large boulders.
The Investment: Because of their specific material choices and site conditions, their complete transformation landed in our Tier 2 range (between $65,000 – $70,000).
The Result: The family now uses their backyard 4-5 nights a week. They have effectively added another "room" to their home, significantly lowering their "cost per hour of enjoyment."
Conclusion: Let's Find Your Number
Ultimately, these ranges are just a starting point. Your property is unique, and your budget should be treated with respect.
At Nature’s Way, we promise to give you a realistic budget range once we see your space—with no hidden surprises—so you can make the decision that feels right for you.
Ready to get a specific number for your project?
Let’s have a conversation. We can walk your property, listen to your vision, and help you understand exactly what it will take to bring your sanctuary to life.
