Cost to Landscape Lighting in New York City, NY (2026)
If you’re budgeting a landscape lighting in New York City, most projects run $1,835-$7,951, 22% 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 New York City sits): Higher electrician labor rates and shorter outdoor installation season push costs up.
$1,835-$7,951 in New York City
22% above the national average · 1.22x cost multiplier
Homeowners in New York City typically spend $1,835-$7,951 on a landscape lighting, about 22% above the national average. Labor rates and contractor availability in the Northeast region drive much of the price difference. Permit requirements and material delivery costs also play a role. See the full tier-by-tier breakdown below before requesting bids.
Cost Breakdown in New York City
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per per fixture installed | $80 | $245 | $489 |
| Materials | $424 | $1,452 | $4,235 |
| Labor | $496 | $1,736 | $3,721 |
| Permits | $0 | $0 | $242 |
| Total | $920+23% vs. national avg | $3,430+23% vs. national avg | $9,166+22% 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 New York City 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 New York City
New York City Estimate
Typical Range
$1,835-$7,951
vs. National Average
22% above national
Cost Multiplier
1.22x
Cost Per per fixture installed
$80-$489
This 1.22x estimate prices New York City 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 →