Cost to Landscape Lighting in Boston, MA (2026)
If you’re budgeting a landscape lighting in Boston, most projects run $1,744-$7,557, 16% above the $3,200 national average. What moves that number most is usually one thing: Low-voltage vs. line-voltage systems. On its own it can swing the cost by $500 - $3,000 difference, so that’s the decision to slow down on before you sweat the smaller stuff.
Easiest place to save: Start with a lower-wattage transformer than you think you need. You can always add a second transformer later at lower cost than replacing a transformer you sized wrong. Most 150W transformers handle 6-8 LED fixtures well.
In the Northeast (where Boston sits): Higher electrician labor rates and shorter outdoor installation season push costs up.
$1,744-$7,557 in Boston
16% above the national average · 1.16x cost multiplier
In Boston, a landscape lighting runs $1,744 to $7,557 on average - about 16% above what homeowners pay nationwide. The Northeast market's labor costs account for most of the gap, with material pricing and local permitting fees adding to the spread. Use the cost table below to compare budget, mid-range, and premium options side by side.
Cost Breakdown in Boston
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per per fixture installed | $76 | $233 | $465 |
| Materials | $406 | $1,392 | $4,060 |
| Labor | $466 | $1,633 | $3,498 |
| Permits | $0 | $0 | $232 |
| Total | $872+16% vs. national avg | $3,257+16% vs. national avg | $8,718+16% vs. national avg |
Budget
Basic DIY-grade low-voltage path light kit (8-12 solar or plug-in fixtures), single transformer, minimal wire run. No design, no trenching.
Mid-Range
Professional low-voltage system: 12-16 LED fixtures (path, uplights, spotlights), quality transformer with timer, wire burial, basic design consultation.
Premium
Full low-voltage or line-voltage architectural system: 20+ fixtures with uplighting, path lights, deck lights, and accent lighting. Zone control, professional design, underground conduit.
Material Options
Material prices below are national averages; availability in Boston may shift costs slightly.
| Material | Cost/Unit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Solar path lights | $10-$40 per fixture | Temporary or accent use, renters, very sunny climatesNo wiring required, no electricity cost, easy to move |
| Low-voltage LED path lights | $20-$80 per fixture | Driveways, walkways, garden borders - the workhouse of most systemsReliable brightness, long lifespan (15-20+ years), low operating cost, huge variety |
| Low-voltage LED spotlights/uplights | $40-$120 per fixture | Trees, shrubs, architectural features, flagpolesDramatic uplighting of trees and architectural features, adjustable aim |
| In-ground well lights | $80-$200 per fixture | Driveways, patios, under trees where ground-mount lights would be tripped overFlush-mount for clean aesthetic, durable, works well in high-traffic areas |
| Deck and step lights | $25-$80 per fixture | Deck stairs, retaining wall steps, raised garden bedsSafety lighting for stairs and deck edges, integrated look |
| String lights (bistro/café style) | $20-$80 per 25-foot strand | Patios, pergolas, outdoor dining areasWarm ambiance, inexpensive per foot, easy to install |
Other Projects in Boston
Boston Estimate
Typical Range
$1,744-$7,557
vs. National Average
16% above national
Cost Multiplier
1.16x
Cost Per per fixture installed
$76-$465
This 1.16x estimate prices Boston labor from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025) and applies a lighter regional adjustment to materials and permits, which vary less by metro than labor does. Actual bids vary by contractor, project scope, and timing.
See national average costs →