Landscape Lighting Design & Installation Cost in 2026: What to Expect

Each fixture includes the light, wiring, and labor to install. Basic LED path lights cost $75-$150 each installed. Quality brass uplights and spotlights run $150-$250. Premium architectural fixtures with smart controls cost $250-$350 each.

A single-zone 300-watt transformer costs $150-$300. Multi-zone systems with smart timers, photocells, and Wi-Fi controls run $400-$800. Larger properties may need multiple transformers.

Some contractors include basic design for free. A professional lighting designer who creates a custom plan with photometric layouts charges $500-$1,500. This ensures proper light placement, eliminates dark spots, and creates dramatic effects.

Low-voltage wire costs $0.50-$1.00 per foot for materials. Trenching through landscaping adds $1-$3 per linear foot for labor. Runs through hardscape or under driveways cost significantly more. A typical residential project uses 200-500 feet of wire.

Plastic and painted aluminum fixtures cost $30-$75 each but degrade in 3-5 years. Solid brass costs $75-$150 and lasts 15-20 years. Copper and bronze fixtures run $150-$300 and develop a beautiful patina over time.

“What brand and material are the fixtures, and what's the warranty?”

Why this matters: Cheap fixtures are the #1 source of callbacks. Solid brass fixtures with 15+ year warranties (like FX Luminaire or WAC) cost more upfront but avoid replacement costs in 3-5 years.

“How many watts will the system draw, and what transformer size do you recommend?”

Why this matters: An undersized transformer causes dim, flickering lights and shortens fixture life. A good rule is loading the transformer to 80% of capacity max, leaving room for future additions.

“Will you do a nighttime walkthrough and adjustment after installation?”

Why this matters: Lighting looks completely different at night versus on paper. A reputable installer includes a nighttime visit to aim fixtures, adjust brightness, and eliminate glare - this is where the design comes together.

“How deep will the wire be buried, and will it be in conduit?”

Why this matters: Wire buried less than 6 inches deep is easily damaged by gardening or aeration. Conduit in high-traffic or hardscape areas protects wire and makes future repairs much easier.

“Can the system be expanded later, and how many additional fixtures can the transformer support?”

Why this matters: If you plan to add lighting to other areas later, you want a transformer with extra capacity and wire runs stubbed out for easy expansion - much cheaper than starting over.