Explore landscape lighting installation cost, its long-term benefits, and whether it’s worth the investment for your home’s curb appeal and security.
Have you ever pulled into your driveway at night, glanced at your house, and thought, “Wow, this place could use some drama”?
No? Just me?
Well, either way, outdoor lighting is a game-changer.
The right lighting doesn’t just make your yard look good—it adds security, boosts curb appeal, and gives off that ‘yes, I have my life together’ energy (even if you really don’t).
But let’s be real—the first thing anyone wonders when considering landscape lighting is how much is this going to cost me?
And more importantly, is it even worth it? I had the same questions before I took the plunge. So, let’s talk money, mistakes, and whether or not you should make this investment.
So, How Much Does Landscape Lighting Installation Cost?
Spoiler alert: It depends. (I know, super helpful, right?) But hear me out. The cost of installing landscape lighting varies based on factors like:
- The size of your yard (bigger space = more lights = more $$$)
- The type of lights you choose (LEDs? Pathway lights? String lights for that backyard Pinterest vibe?)
- Whether you DIY or hire a pro (which, let’s be honest, could make or break the project)
On average, a professionally installed system costs anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. If you’re going for the bare minimum—say, a few well-placed solar-powered lights—you can get away with spending around $300 to $500.
On the other end, if you want full-fledged luxury lighting, be ready to drop $10,000 or more.
I personally aimed for that middle ground—enough to make my home look elegant without accidentally draining my savings account.
Breaking Down the Costs: Where Your Money Goes
Alright, let’s talk about where that money actually goes. Because if you’re like me, you want to know exactly what you’re paying for. Here’s a rough breakdown:
1. Fixtures and Bulbs ($50 – $500 per light)
You can find cheap lights for as low as $20 per fixture, but if you want high-quality, weatherproof lights that won’t die in a month, expect to spend at least $50 to $500 per light.
LED options are a smart choice—they last longer and use way less energy.
2. Wiring and Transformers ($300 – $1,500 total)
Unless you’re going solar, you’ll need wiring and a transformer to power your lights. If your existing electrical setup can’t handle extra wattage, be ready to pay more for upgrades.
3. Labor Costs ($50 – $100 per hour)
Hiring a professional isn’t cheap, but unless you’re an expert at electrical work, it’s worth it. Most landscape lighting installers charge $50 to $100 per hour, and the whole job usually takes 10 to 20 hours.
If you want quality work with zero electrocution risks, this is where you don’t skimp.
4. Smart Features and Customization ($500 – $2,000 extra)
Want app-controlled lighting? Motion sensors? Color-changing LED bulbs that let you set the mood for every occasion? Cool, but expect to pay a little extra.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: My Regrettable Experiment
Now, if you’re thinking, Hey, I could probably save some money by doing this myself!—trust me, I’ve been there. I, too, believed I was a DIY king. But that confidence lasted about as long as it took for me to realize that:
- I didn’t own the right tools
- My knowledge of outdoor electrical work was next to zero
- Running wires underground is a pain
The result? I wasted an entire weekend trying to install pathway lights, only for half of them to not turn on. One even flickered like a horror movie scene. That’s when I waved the white flag and called in the experts.
Hiring professionals from Mr. Fix It Electrical was the best decision I made. They handled lighting installation Long Beach like absolute pros, and in just a few hours, my yard went from looking like a scene out of a haunted house to something straight out of a home design magazine.
Is It Actually Worth the Investment?
Let’s talk return on investment. Because while it’s nice to have a beautifully lit home, we all want to know—does it actually add value?
1. Curb Appeal & Property Value
According to real estate pros, outdoor lighting can increase your home’s value by 10-20%.
That means if your house is worth $500,000, a good lighting setup could add $50,000 to $100,000 in perceived value. Not bad for something you enjoy every night!
2. Safety & Security
Studies show that well-lit homes deter burglars. Motion-sensor lights alone can reduce crime rates significantly.
Plus, having proper pathway lighting means no more tripping over garden gnomes at night (because yes, that has happened to me).
3. Energy Savings (If You Go LED)
If you choose LED lighting, you’ll see the savings over time. LEDs use 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 25 years. Less replacement = more money in your pocket.
Final Verdict: Should You Invest in Landscape Lighting?
If you’re looking to transform your home’s exterior, YES—landscape lighting is worth it.
But (big but) make sure you do it right. Here’s my advice:
- Don’t cheap out on quality fixtures. You get what you pay for.
- If you’re not an electrician, hire one. (Seriously, don’t risk your sanity or safety.)
- Go for LED. It saves money in the long run.
- Plan your lighting design beforehand. A well-placed light is everything.
And if you’re in Long Beach (or nearby), I highly recommend checking out Mr. Fix It Electrical for professional lighting installation in Long Beach. They turned my yard from “meh” to magazine-worthy in no time.
As for me, I’m officially done pretending I’m an electrician. My backyard is glowing, my house looks like a million bucks, and best of all? No more tripping over that stupid garden gnome.