{ "slug": "landscaping", "name": "Landscaping & Grounds", "in_level_book": true, "scores": { "resilience": 68.9, "leverage": 80.9, "trade_ai_score": 74.9, "quadrant": "race-to-modernize", "quadrant_label": "Race to Modernize", "quadrant_desc": "Big AI upside but exposed to disruption. Move now, the operators who modernize win.", "resilience_rel": 24.5, "leverage_rel": 78 }, "subscores": { "resilience": { "physical_core": 84, "disintermediation": 58, "entry_barrier": 55, "switching_cost": 70 }, "leverage": { "coordination_drag": 84, "operating_leverage": 86, "revenue_expansion": 72, "data_amplification": 78 }, "basis": "Physical, but highly fragmented and low entry barrier. Recurring maintenance contracts help lock-in. Crew-productivity + design-build job costing = large AI upside. A vertical Level works in." }, "research": { "wages_detail": { "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.96, "median_hourly_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_hourly_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "median_hourly_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "median_annual_wage_usd": 37360, "median_annual_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_annual_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "median_annual_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "pct25_hourly_wage_usd": 16.25, "pct25_hourly_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "pct25_hourly_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "pct25_hourly_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "pct75_hourly_wage_usd": 21.81, "pct75_hourly_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "pct75_hourly_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "pct75_hourly_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "pct90_hourly_wage_usd": 24.66, "pct90_hourly_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "pct90_hourly_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "pct90_hourly_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "pct10_hourly_wage_usd": 13.98, "pct10_hourly_wage_usd_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "pct10_hourly_wage_usd_research_pass_count": 6, "pct10_hourly_wage_usd_confidence": "high-primary", "wage_data_year": "2023", "median_hourly_wage_usd_source_access": "url", "median_annual_wage_usd_source_access": "url", "pct25_hourly_wage_usd_source_access": "url", "pct75_hourly_wage_usd_source_access": "url", "pct90_hourly_wage_usd_source_access": "url", "pct10_hourly_wage_usd_source_access": "url" }, "employment": { "us_employment": 1192500, "us_employment_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections, Table 1.2 Occupational Projections and Worker Characteristics, https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-worker-characteristics.htm", "us_employment_research_pass_count": 5, "us_employment_confidence": "high-primary", "projected_10yr_growth_pct": 3.6, "projected_10yr_growth_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections, Table 1.2 Occupational Projections and Worker Characteristics, 2024-2034, https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-worker-characteristics.htm", "projected_10yr_growth_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "projected_10yr_growth_pct_confidence": "low", "annual_openings": 158200, "annual_openings_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections, Table 1.2 Occupational Projections and Worker Characteristics, 2024-2034, https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-worker-characteristics.htm", "annual_openings_research_pass_count": 5, "annual_openings_confidence": "high-primary", "projected_10yr_net_change": 42400, "projected_10yr_net_change_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections, Table 1.2 Occupational Projections and Worker Characteristics, 2024-2034, https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-worker-characteristics.htm", "projected_10yr_net_change_research_pass_count": 5, "projected_10yr_net_change_confidence": "high-primary", "us_employment_year": "2024", "us_employment_source_access": "url", "projected_10yr_growth_pct_source_access": "url", "annual_openings_source_access": "url", "projected_10yr_net_change_source_access": "url" }, "labor_shortage": { "unfilled_openings": 171600, "unfilled_openings_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Grounds Maintenance Workers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/building-and-grounds-cleaning/grounds-maintenance-workers.htm", "unfilled_openings_research_pass_count": 6, "unfilled_openings_confidence": "med", "vacancy_rate_pct": 76, "vacancy_rate_pct_source": "Lawn & Landscape 2024 State of the Landscape Labor Market Report / Granum (2024)", "vacancy_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "vacancy_rate_pct_confidence": "med", "unfilled_openings_year": "2017", "shortage_note": "The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) launched its Industry Growth Initiative to add 100,000 positions to the landscaping industry by 2025 to meet ongoing demand and combat the workforce shortage.", "shortage_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / Green Industry Pros (2019, https://www.greenindustrypros.com/mowing-maintenance/press-release/21072970/interlocking-concrete-pavement-institute-icpi-icpi-joins-forces-with-nalp-to-combat-labor-shortage)", "unfilled_openings_source_access": "url", "vacancy_rate_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "shortage_note_source_access": "url" }, "workforce_aging": { "median_worker_age": 41.8, "median_worker_age_derived": true, "median_worker_age_source": "Trade Economy Index research synthesis: median of 2 cited research inputs: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Current Population Survey Table 18b: Employed people by detailed industry and age (https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat18b.htm) | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey (CPS), Table 11b: Employed persons by detailed occupation and age, https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat11b.htm (cross-checked against U.S. Census Bureau ACS / DataUSA, https://datausa.io/profile/soc/landscaping-groundskeeping-workers)", "median_worker_age_research_pass_count": 6, "median_worker_age_confidence": "high", "pct_over_55": 23.5, "pct_over_55_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey (CPS), Table 11b: Employed persons by detailed occupation and age, https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat11b.htm (cross-checked against BLS CPS Table 18b for Landscaping Services Industry, https://www.bls.gov/cps/)", "pct_over_55_research_pass_count": 6, "pct_over_55_confidence": "high-primary", "median_worker_age_year": "2025", "retirement_note": "An estimated 171,600 job openings for grounds maintenance workers are projected annually from 2024 to 2034, with a primary driver being the need to replace workers leaving the workforce, including those retiring.", "retirement_note_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Grounds Maintenance Workers (2025, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/building-and-grounds-cleaning/grounds-maintenance-workers.htm)", "median_worker_age_source_access": "url", "pct_over_55_source_access": "url", "retirement_note_source_access": "url" }, "training_pipeline": { "annual_completions": 111, "annual_completions_source": "U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2021, https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_318.30.asp", "annual_completions_research_pass_count": 3, "annual_completions_confidence": "med", "pipeline_gap_note": "The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 171,600 average annual job openings for grounds maintenance workers (including landscaping and groundskeeping workers) from 2024 to 2034, driven primarily by replacement needs and occupational turnover. In comparison, the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) estimates 300,000 annual job vacancies across the broader landscape industry, demonstrating a massive structural pipeline gap between new workforce entrants from training programs and total industry demand.", "pipeline_gap_note_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Grounds Maintenance Workers, 2025, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/building-and-grounds-cleaning/grounds-maintenance-workers.htm; National Association of Landscape Professionals, Landscape Management Apprenticeship Program, 2026", "annual_completions_source_access": "url", "pipeline_gap_note_source_access": "url" }, "immigration_reliance": { "pct_foreign_born": 35.4, "pct_foreign_born_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs", "pct_foreign_born_research_pass_count": 5, "pct_foreign_born_confidence": "med", "pct_foreign_born_year": "2023", "visa_dependence_note": "Landscaping and groundskeeping workers represent the single largest occupation in the federal H-2B temporary non-agricultural visa program, accounting for 39.1% of all U.S. Department of Labor H-2B labor certifications in FY 2023, with the landscaping services industry representing over 31.3% of total certifications.", "visa_dependence_note_source": "American Immigration Council analysis of U.S. Department of Labor H-2B Visa Program Data, 2024", "pct_foreign_born_source_access": "url", "visa_dependence_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "unionization": { "union_membership_pct": 5.81, "union_membership_pct_source": "unionstats.com (Barry T. Hirsch, David A. Macpherson, and Wayne E. Even, 'Union Membership, Coverage, Density, and Employment by Occupation, 1983-2023', compiled from the Current Population Survey), http://www.unionstats.com", "union_membership_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "union_membership_pct_confidence": "med", "union_membership_year": "2025", "prevailing_wage_note": "Landscaping and groundskeeping work is subject to Davis-Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA) prevailing wage determinations when performed as part of federal or federally assisted construction, site development, or major renovation projects exceeding $2,000. Routine, standalone grounds maintenance (e.g., routine mowing or tree trimming) is generally excluded from Davis-Bacon construction coverage, though standalone federal facility maintenance contracts may be subject to the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).", "prevailing_wage_note_source": "U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division, Davis-Bacon and Related Acts Compliance Guidance, 2024", "union_membership_pct_source_access": "url", "prevailing_wage_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "licensing": { "states_requiring_license": 16, "states_requiring_license_source": "Insureon, Landscaper Licensing Requirements Guide", "states_requiring_license_research_pass_count": 5, "states_requiring_license_confidence": "med", "states_requiring_license_year": "2026", "bonding_note": "Many state licensing boards require landscape contractors to maintain a surety bond alongside general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Bond amounts vary by jurisdiction, for example, California requires a $25,000 contractor license bond, Oregon requires a $20,000 bond (under SB 864 effective 2026), and North Carolina and Alaska require $10,000 bonds.", "bonding_note_source": "Oregon Landscape Contractors Board and Next Insurance , 2026", "states_requiring_license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "market_size": { "market_size_usd": 176700000000, "market_size_usd_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (May 2026), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "market_size_usd_research_pass_count": 5, "market_size_usd_confidence": "high", "cagr_pct": 2, "cagr_pct_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (May 2026), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "cagr_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "cagr_pct_confidence": "high", "market_size_usd_year": "2026", "cagr_forecast_window": "2026-2031", "cagr_forecast_window_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (May 2026), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "market_size_usd_source_access": "url", "cagr_pct_source_access": "url", "cagr_forecast_window_source_access": "url" }, "firm_counts": { "num_establishments": 117109, "num_establishments_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), 2022 Annual Data, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/susb.html", "num_establishments_research_pass_count": 6, "num_establishments_confidence": "high-primary", "num_firms": 114842, "num_firms_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), 2022 Annual Data, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/susb.html", "num_firms_research_pass_count": 6, "num_firms_confidence": "high-primary", "avg_employees_per_firm": 6.74, "avg_employees_per_firm_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), 2022 Annual Data (calculated from 774,028 paid employees across 114,842 employer firms), https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/susb.html", "avg_employees_per_firm_research_pass_count": 6, "avg_employees_per_firm_confidence": "high-primary", "num_establishments_year": "2022", "num_establishments_source_access": "url", "num_firms_source_access": "url", "avg_employees_per_firm_source_access": "url" }, "firm_size_dist": { "pct_nonemployer": 81.42, "pct_nonemployer_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 County Business Patterns and 2023 Nonemployer Statistics (NAICS 561730), https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/nonemployer-statistics.html", "pct_nonemployer_research_pass_count": 6, "pct_nonemployer_confidence": "high-primary", "size_dist_year": "2023", "pct_nonemployer_source_access": "url" }, "fragmentation": { "top4_firm_share_pct": 9.6, "top4_firm_share_pct_source": "U.S. Small Business Administration, 'Small Business Size Standards: Professional, Scientific and Technical Services; Management of Companies and Enterprises; Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services', Proposed Rule, 85 FR 72584 (November 13, 2020), Table 4 'Size Standards Supported by Each Factor for Each Industry (Receipts)' at 85 FR 72592, column (6) headed 'Four-firm ratio %', row NAICS 561730 Landscaping Services. Derived by SBA from the U.S. Census Bureau special tabulation of the 2012 Economic Census. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/11/13/2020-24903/small-business-size-standards-professional-scientific-and-technical-services-management-of", "top4_firm_share_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "top4_firm_share_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "top50_firm_share_pct": 20, "top50_firm_share_pct_source": "First Page Sage, 'Landscaping M&A Insights', 2025", "top50_firm_share_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "top50_firm_share_pct_confidence": "med", "mom_and_pop_share_note": "Small and independent operators dominate NAICS 561730: 94.3% of employer firms have fewer than 20 employees, and approximately 517,000 out of ~635,000 total industry businesses (~81%) are nonemployer sole proprietorships, with no single company controlling more than ~5% of market revenue.", "mom_and_pop_share_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB) 2022 & County Business Patterns / Nonemployer Statistics 2023 (as cited in LawnStarter 'An Illustrated Brief on the U.S. Lawn-Care Industry', 2026)", "concentration_year": "2022-2023", "top4_firm_share_pct_source_access": "url", "top50_firm_share_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "mom_and_pop_share_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "franchise_pen": { "franchise_penetration_pct": 7.15, "franchise_penetration_pct_derived": true, "franchise_penetration_pct_source": "Trade Economy Index research synthesis: median of 2 cited research inputs: Research and Markets - Landscaping and Gardening Franchises Global Market Report 2026 (https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5938838/landscaping-and-gardening-franchises-global) & IBISWorld - Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report 2025 (https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/) | Kentley Insights, 2025 Landscaping Services Market Report (NAICS 56173), https://www.kentleyinsights.com", "franchise_penetration_pct_research_pass_count": 2, "franchise_penetration_pct_confidence": "med", "franchise_penetration_year": "2026", "franchise_trend_note": "The US landscaping industry remains heavily fragmented, with independent operators accounting for over 90% of overall establishments and revenue. However, the franchise segment is trending upward and outpacing general market growth (~5.5% CAGR for franchises vs. ~3.0% CAGR for the broader sector). Key growth drivers include private equity rollups, adoption of automated route-optimization and CRM technology, recurring maintenance subscription models, and expansion by home-services platform consolidators (e.g., Neighborly's The Grounds Guys and Lawn Pride).", "franchise_trend_note_source": "Cross-checked across IFA / FRANdata '2026 Franchising Economic Outlook' (2026), Workyard 'Landscaping Industry Statistics' (2026), and National Association of Landscape Professionals / IBISWorld Industry Benchmark Report (2025, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org).", "franchise_penetration_pct_source_access": "url", "franchise_trend_note_source_access": "url" }, "formation_rate": { "annual_new_firm_formation": 14.2, "annual_new_firm_formation_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS), NAICS 5617 Services to Buildings and Dwellings, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/bds.html", "annual_new_firm_formation_research_pass_count": 5, "annual_new_firm_formation_confidence": "low", "annual_closure_rate_pct": 11.8, "annual_closure_rate_pct_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS) - Sector 56 Administrative and Support Services, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/bds.html", "annual_closure_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "annual_closure_rate_pct_confidence": "med", "survival_5yr_pct": 48.9, "survival_5yr_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Business Employment Dynamics (BED), Table 7: Survival of Private Sector Establishments by Opening Year, Administrative and Waste Services - https://www.bls.gov/bdm/us_age_naics_00_table7.txt", "survival_5yr_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "survival_5yr_pct_confidence": "low", "annual_new_firm_formation_year": "2023", "annual_new_firm_formation_source_access": "url", "annual_closure_rate_pct_source_access": "url", "survival_5yr_pct_source_access": "url" }, "margins": { "gross_margin_pct": 23.3, "gross_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024) - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "gross_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 6, "gross_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "operating_margin_pct": 5.67, "operating_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024) - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "operating_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 6, "operating_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "net_margin_pct": 2.4, "net_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024) - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "net_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 6, "net_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "margin_year": "2024", "net_margin_pct_shared_across": 4, "net_margin_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "gross_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "operating_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "net_margin_pct_source_access": "url" }, "cost_structure": { "labor_pct_of_revenue": 32.5, "labor_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (Industry Report 56173), 2020, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "labor_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 5, "labor_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "materials_pct_of_revenue": 32.6, "materials_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (Industry Report 56173), 2020, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "materials_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 6, "materials_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "sga_overhead_pct": 17.9, "sga_overhead_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 - https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713", "sga_overhead_pct_research_pass_count": 6, "sga_overhead_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "cost_structure_year": "2024", "labor_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "materials_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "sga_overhead_pct_source_access": "url" }, "productivity": { "revenue_per_employee_usd": 129434, "revenue_per_employee_usd_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Economic Census (Table EC2256BASIC, NAICS 561730 Landscaping Services), https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/economic-census.html", "revenue_per_employee_usd_research_pass_count": 5, "revenue_per_employee_usd_confidence": "med", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd": 45, "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_source": "Level CFO, Level Index Trade Benchmarks for Landscaping (2026), https://www.levelcfo.com", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_research_pass_count": 2, "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_confidence": "low", "billable_utilization_pct": 75, "billable_utilization_pct_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), Financial Benchmark Study (2025), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "billable_utilization_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "billable_utilization_pct_confidence": "high", "productivity_year": "2025", "billable_utilization_pct_shared_across": 5, "billable_utilization_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 5 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "revenue_per_employee_usd_source_access": "url", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_source_access": "url", "billable_utilization_pct_source_access": "url" }, "seasonality_econ": { "peak_period_note": "Demand and revenue in the US landscaping and grounds contracting industry peak during the spring and summer months (corresponding to the third and fourth fiscal quarters ending June 30 and September 30 for major operators like BrightView). This period coincides with the main growing season for recurring landscape maintenance and higher activity in landscape development projects. In contrast, activity is lowest during the winter months (first and second fiscal quarters ending December 31 and March 31), where lower maintenance demand is only partially offset by seasonal snow removal services in applicable climate regions.", "peak_period_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2025 (Filed November 19, 2025), SEC EDGAR, URL: https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471325000043/bv-20250930.htm", "cyclicality_note": "The US landscaping industry demonstrates segmented economic-cycle exposure. Contracted landscape maintenance services exhibit low cyclicality and high resilience during economic downturns due to the recurring, non-discretionary nature of ongoing commercial and residential property maintenance. Conversely, landscape development services (design, architectural work, and new construction installations) are highly cyclical, with demand directly tied to broader macroeconomic health, private non-residential construction activity, and commercial real estate development cycles.", "cyclicality_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2025 (Filed November 19, 2025), SEC EDGAR, URL: https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471325000043/bv-20250930.htm and IBISWorld Report: Landscaping Services in the U.S. (April 2025), URL: https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "peak_period_note_source_access": "url", "cyclicality_note_source_access": "url" }, "cash_cycle_detail": { "dso_days": 55.8, "dso_days_derived": true, "dso_days_source": "Trade Economy Index research synthesis: median of 2 cited research inputs: BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024, SEC EDGAR, https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000048/bv-20240930.htm | CFMA 2024 Construction Financial Benchmarker (Specialty Trade Contractors), https://cfma.org/benchmarker", "dso_days_research_pass_count": 4, "dso_days_confidence": "high", "dpo_days": 32, "dpo_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (2025 Data, Level CFO Landscaping Industry Benchmarks), https://www.levelcfo.com/benchmarks/landscaping", "dpo_days_research_pass_count": 2, "dpo_days_confidence": "med", "cash_cycle_year": "2024-2025", "dso_days_source_access": "url", "dpo_days_source_access": "url" }, "retainage_liens": { "typical_retainage_pct": 5, "typical_retainage_pct_source": "Oregon Revised Statutes § 701.410, 2023, https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors701.html", "typical_retainage_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "typical_retainage_pct_confidence": "low", "payment_dispute_pct": 23, "payment_dispute_pct_source": "Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), 2025 Benchmarking Survey, https://www.cfma.org", "payment_dispute_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "payment_dispute_pct_confidence": "low", "retainage_year": "2021", "typical_retainage_pct_source_access": "url", "payment_dispute_pct_source_access": "url" }, "bad_debt": { "bad_debt_write_off_pct": 0.36, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_confidence": "adjudicated", "collection_rate_pct": 85.1, "collection_rate_pct_source": "Level - State of Contractor Finance Report, 2026, https://levelcfo.com/reports/state-of-contractor-finance-2026", "collection_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "collection_rate_pct_confidence": "med", "bad_debt_year": "2023", "collection_rate_pct_shared_across": 23, "collection_rate_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 23 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source_access": "url", "collection_rate_pct_source_access": "url" }, "ai_task_breakdown": { "pct_physical_onsite_work": 90, "pct_physical_onsite_work_source": "McKinsey Global Institute, 'A Future That Works: Automation, Employment, and Productivity', 2017. URL: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/digital-disruption/harnessing-automation-for-a-future-that-works", "pct_physical_onsite_work_research_pass_count": 5, "pct_physical_onsite_work_confidence": "high", "pct_cognitive_backoffice_work": 10, "pct_cognitive_backoffice_work_source": "McKinsey Global Institute, 'A Future That Works: Automation, Employment, and Productivity', 2017. URL: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/digital-disruption/harnessing-automation-for-a-future-that-works", "pct_cognitive_backoffice_work_research_pass_count": 5, "pct_cognitive_backoffice_work_confidence": "med", "task_breakdown_note": "On-site physical labor accounts for approximately 90% of work time, consisting of physical activities in unpredictable outdoor environments including operating powered grounds maintenance equipment, planting, trimming, digging, mowing, fertilizing, snow removal, and manual site cleanup. Cognitive, administrative, and coordination tasks account for approximately 10% of work time, comprising evaluating landscape designs and reports, estimating service costs, site inspection, equipment maintenance tracking, and client/team communication.", "task_breakdown_note_source": "U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET OnLine, '37-3011.00 - Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers', 2026. URL: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/37-3011.00", "ai_resistant_work": "Physical on-site tasks requiring fine motor skills, craft judgment, and site-specific physical adaptability remain highly resistant to AI automation. These tasks include intricate hand pruning, edging near tight obstacles, tree climbing and arborist care, hardscape construction (paving, masonry, wall builds), plant health diagnosis, soil amendment, and custom plant installation. Furthermore, a Brigham Young University study presented via the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP, 2019) analyzed 117 landscape properties and found that 70% were not robotic-mower friendly due to physical obstacles, fragmented lawn zones, and perimeter barriers that necessitate human site management.", "ai_resistant_work_source": "Landscape Management Network (LMN) & Attentive.ai Strategic Partnership Announcement (2025) - https://attentive.ai | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) - How Autonomous Mowers Are Reshaping Operations (2026) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | University of Florida IFAS News - Study Finds Robotic Mowers Improve Florida Lawn Health (2026) - https://ufl.edu | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / BYU Lawn Accessibility Study (2019) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | Attentive.ai - Automated Takeoff Software and Landscaping Bidding Guide (2024) - https://attentive.ai", "ai_resistant_work_confidence": "low", "automatable_work": "Administrative, pre-construction, estimating, and operational planning tasks are the most highly automatable. Key areas include automated property takeoffs (using AI and aerial imagery to map and calculate square footage for turf, mulch beds, hardscapes, and tree counts), automated proposal and bid generation, route optimization for field crews, dynamic job pricing based on historical production rates, automated client scheduling/invoicing, and predictive maintenance alerts for equipment. AI takeoff platforms report reducing property measurement and estimate creation time by up to 90-95%, removing the primary administrative bottleneck for contractors.", "automatable_work_source": "Landscape Management Network (LMN) & Attentive.ai Strategic Partnership Announcement (2025) - https://attentive.ai | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) - How Autonomous Mowers Are Reshaping Operations (2026) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | University of Florida IFAS News - Study Finds Robotic Mowers Improve Florida Lawn Health (2026) - https://ufl.edu | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / BYU Lawn Accessibility Study (2019) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | Attentive.ai - Automated Takeoff Software and Landscaping Bidding Guide (2024) - https://attentive.ai", "automatable_work_confidence": "low", "pct_physical_onsite_work_source_access": "url", "pct_cognitive_backoffice_work_source_access": "url", "task_breakdown_note_source_access": "url", "ai_resistant_work_source_access": "url", "automatable_work_source_access": "url" }, "automation_physical": { "sources": [ "Scythe Robotics Press Release (2026) - ASI Acquisition & Deployment Figures: https://www.scytherobotics.com", "McKinsey Global Institute / Inc. (2017) - Technical Automation Potential by Occupation: https://www.inc.com/michael-chui/why-landscapers-are-less-likely-to-be-replaced-by-robots-than-ceos.html", "McKinsey Global Institute (2025) - Skill Change Index and Future of Work: https://www.mckinsey.com", "Brookings Institution / Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (2023) - Automation Risk in U.S. Occupations: https://www.chicagofed.org", "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) - Occupational Employment Projections & Automation Thesis: https://www.bls.gov", "Fleetio Trade Press (2024) - Autonomous Fleet Tools in Landscaping: https://www.fleetio.com" ] }, "fsm_software": { "fsm_adoption_pct": 55, "fsm_adoption_pct_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2026, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "fsm_adoption_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "fsm_adoption_pct_confidence": "med", "dominant_fsm_software": "Jobber, Aspire, LMN, RealGreen, SingleOps, Service Autopilot", "dominant_fsm_software_source": "Get Tiny Lawn (2026), https://gettinylawn.com", "fsm_adoption_year": "2024", "fsm_adoption_pct_source_access": "url", "dominant_fsm_software_source_access": "url" }, "accounting_tech": { "common_accounting_software": "QuickBooks (including QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop) serves as the primary accounting system of record for the majority of US landscaping and grounds contractors. Operations are typically managed by pairing QuickBooks with specialized green-industry field management software, such as Aspire, LMN, Jobber, and SingleOps, to handle estimating, scheduling, and job costing, while mid-to-large commercial firms also utilize ERPs like Acumatica or Sage.", "common_accounting_software_source": "Aspire Software (2023) (vendor-published industry report; software-adoption evidence, not independent benchmark research)", "integration_gap_note": "According to contractor operational analysis, 45% of contractor and trade businesses still manually re-enter field time data into payroll or accounting software, making double-entry a primary driver of job-costing errors. Furthermore, trade industry research shows that contractors run an average of 11 discrete applications, but only 33% exchange data automatically without requiring manual workarounds.", "integration_gap_note_source": "Workyard (2026) - https://www.workyard.com/blog/landscaping-job-costing-software", "common_accounting_software_source_access": "citation-text-only", "integration_gap_note_source_access": "url" }, "ai_adoption": { "ai_adoption_rate_pct": 17, "ai_adoption_rate_pct_source": "Aspire 2025 Landscape Industry Report, National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2025, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "ai_adoption_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "ai_adoption_rate_pct_confidence": "med", "ai_adoption_year": "2025", "adoption_examples": "1. AI Aerial Takeoffs & Management Integration: Landscape Management Network (LMN) partnered with Attentive.ai (2025) to integrate computer vision AI aerial takeoffs directly into field management software, allowing contractors to instantly generate material takeoffs and quotes from satellite imagery. 2. Fleet Autonomous Mowing: Contractors featured by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP, 2026), such as Mow Bot Ltd (using Scythe mowers) and Florida Image Landscaping (using Kress mowers), deploy autonomous mowers as labor multipliers. Mow Bot Ltd reported that one senior technician can oversee two autonomous mowers processing 1.5 acres per hour each. 3. Agronomic Turf Research: A 2026 University of Florida (UF/IFAS) study led by Dr. Bryan Unruh evaluated autonomous mowers on warm-season St. Augustine grass, documenting that continuous daily micro-mowing increased turf density and pest resistance while reducing crew labor and carbon emissions.", "adoption_examples_source": "Landscape Management Network (LMN) & Attentive.ai Strategic Partnership Announcement (2025) - https://attentive.ai | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) - How Autonomous Mowers Are Reshaping Operations (2026) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | University of Florida IFAS News - Study Finds Robotic Mowers Improve Florida Lawn Health (2026) - https://ufl.edu | National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / BYU Lawn Accessibility Study (2019) - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org | Attentive.ai - Automated Takeoff Software and Landscaping Bidding Guide (2024) - https://attentive.ai", "adoption_examples_confidence": "low", "ai_adoption_rate_pct_source_access": "url", "adoption_examples_source_access": "url" }, "leadgen_platforms": { "marketplace_penetration_pct": 1.5, "marketplace_penetration_pct_source": "Angi Inc. Q1 2026 Shareholder Letter & Earnings Call (2026) - https://ir.angi.com", "marketplace_penetration_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "marketplace_penetration_pct_confidence": "med", "platform_take_rate_pct": 10, "platform_take_rate_pct_source": "Angi Inc. Q1 2026 Shareholder Letter & Earnings Call (2026) - https://ir.angi.com", "platform_take_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "platform_take_rate_pct_confidence": "med", "platforms_note": "Angi Inc. reports that digital marketplace penetration across home services (including landscaping) remains low, capturing under 1.5% of the overall $700B addressable market, with 3% to 4% market share among small professionals (under 10 employees) and under 0.5% among large professionals. Platforms operate at an approximate 10% take rate, with service pros paying roughly $50 per lead against an average job value of $4,000.", "platforms_note_source": "Angi Inc. Q1 2026 Shareholder Letter & Earnings Call (2026) - https://ir.angi.com", "marketplace_penetration_pct_shared_across": 11, "marketplace_penetration_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 11 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "platform_take_rate_pct_shared_across": 13, "platform_take_rate_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 13 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "marketplace_penetration_pct_source_access": "url", "platform_take_rate_pct_source_access": "url", "platforms_note_source_access": "url" }, "acquisition_mix": { "pct_referral": 26, "pct_referral_source": "Aspire 2026 Commercial Landscape Industry Report, National Association of Landscape Professionals (2026)", "pct_referral_research_pass_count": 2, "pct_referral_confidence": "med", "pct_digital": 44, "pct_digital_source": "Green Industry Pros / Silverback Strategies, 'The Customer Journey in Landscaping' (2021), https://www.greenindustrypros.com/marketing/article/21294862/the-customer-journey-in-landscaping", "pct_digital_research_pass_count": 1, "pct_digital_confidence": "low", "pct_repeat": 35, "pct_repeat_source": "Aspire 2026 Commercial Landscape Industry Report, National Association of Landscape Professionals (2026)", "pct_repeat_research_pass_count": 2, "pct_repeat_confidence": "low", "acquisition_year": "2025", "pct_referral_source_access": "citation-text-only", "pct_digital_source_access": "url", "pct_repeat_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "insurance_warranty": { "home_warranty_penetration_pct": 0, "home_warranty_penetration_pct_source": "Frontdoor, Inc. Form 10-K (2025, https://www.sec.gov) and Today's Homeowner (2025)", "home_warranty_penetration_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "home_warranty_penetration_pct_confidence": "adjudicated", "intermediation_note": "In general home services, home warranty companies intermediate contractor-customer relationships by handling service requests, setting pricing, and dispatching pre-qualified independent network contractors. However, in the Landscaping & Grounds trade, major home warranty plans (such as Frontdoor / American Home Shield and 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty) explicitly exclude landscaping, grounds maintenance, driveways, and outdoor features from standard coverage. Furthermore, homeowners property insurance restricts landscaping coverage to narrow named perils (e.g., fire, lightning) with strict sub-limits (typically 5% of total dwelling coverage). Consequently, the US Landscaping & Grounds trade operates almost entirely through direct contractor-to-customer relationships outside warranty and insurance channels.", "intermediation_note_source": "Frontdoor, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024/2025), SEC, https://www.sec.gov ; 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Coverage Exclusions, The Providence Group (2025), https://www.theprovidencegroup.com/blog/what-is-and-isnt-covered-by-a-new-home-warranty ; ValuePenguin Landscaping Homeowners Insurance Guide (2026)", "home_warranty_penetration_pct_source_access": "url", "intermediation_note_source_access": "url" }, "recurring_mix": { "recurring_revenue_pct": 70.8, "recurring_revenue_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc., FY2025 Form 10-K (2025), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713", "recurring_revenue_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "recurring_revenue_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "service_agreement_attach_pct": 22.5, "service_agreement_attach_pct_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Financial Benchmark Report", "service_agreement_attach_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "service_agreement_attach_pct_confidence": "low", "recurring_note": "Cross-checked against the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / Aspire 2026 Commercial Landscape Industry Report, which found that recurring commercial maintenance contracts represent 83% of commercial contractors' revenue (and 63% for residential maintenance contractors), while NALP business benchmarking data shows maintenance contracts account for 55% to 70% of total annual revenue across multi-crew operations.", "recurring_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / Aspire Commercial Landscape Industry Report (2026), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "recurring_revenue_pct_source_access": "url", "service_agreement_attach_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "recurring_note_source_access": "url" }, "contract_terms": { "typical_contract_length_months": 12, "typical_contract_length_months_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2024, https://landscapeprofessionals.org", "typical_contract_length_months_research_pass_count": 5, "typical_contract_length_months_confidence": "high", "renewal_rate_pct": 85, "renewal_rate_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form S-1 Registration Statement (2018) & SEC Filings", "renewal_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "renewal_rate_pct_confidence": "high", "stickiness_note": "Commercial landscape maintenance contracts carry high stickiness due to automatic annual renewal clauses with 30-to-90-day cancellation notice windows, integrated multi-service bundling (such as routine care, irrigation, and snow removal), route density efficiencies, and substantial operational switching costs for commercial property owners.", "stickiness_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2024, https://landscapeprofessionals.org", "typical_contract_length_months_shared_across": 8, "typical_contract_length_months_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 8 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "typical_contract_length_months_source_access": "url", "renewal_rate_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "stickiness_note_source_access": "url" }, "cross_sell": { "upsell_attach_pct": 60, "upsell_attach_pct_source": "CT Acquisitions, 2026, https://www.ctacquisitions.com/landscaping-business-valuation", "upsell_attach_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "upsell_attach_pct_confidence": "low", "cross_sell_note": "In the commercial landscape and grounds trade, expansion relies on cross-selling high-margin ancillary and enhancement service lines, such as tree care, irrigation, turf management, and snow removal, to core maintenance accounts. Key industry consolidators target conversion rates of up to 70% when cross-selling recurring maintenance contracts to development and construction clients.", "cross_sell_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. FY2025 Form 10-K / Q3 2025 Earnings Call, 2025, https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713", "upsell_attach_pct_source_access": "url", "cross_sell_note_source_access": "url" }, "capital_intensity": { "startup_cost_usd": 156500, "startup_cost_usd_source": "U.S. Lawns 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Item 7, 2025", "startup_cost_usd_research_pass_count": 5, "startup_cost_usd_confidence": "med", "capex_pct_of_revenue": 2.2, "capex_pct_of_revenue_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. FY2024 Form 10-K, 2024, https://investor.brightview.com", "capex_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 5, "capex_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "equipment_note": "Field operations require fleet trucks, transport trailers, commercial zero-turn mowers, trimmers, and power tools; equipment-related costs (fuel, repairs, and depreciation) typically represent 10% to 15% of total revenue, with indirect vehicle and equipment overhead comprising an additional 5% to 10% of revenue.", "equipment_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Financial Benchmark Survey, 2025, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "startup_cost_usd_source_access": "citation-text-only", "capex_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "equipment_note_source_access": "url" }, "regulatory_burden": { "permit_burden_note": "Landscaping and grounds maintenance operators face state and federal regulatory compliance frameworks governed primarily by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. § 136; 40 CFR Part 171) and state lead agencies. Commercial applicators applying pesticides, herbicides, or turf chemicals must obtain state commercial pesticide applicator licenses and category-specific certifications (such as Ornamental & Turf). In addition, operators applying agricultural-use pesticides must adhere to the EPA Worker Protection Standard (WPS) under 40 CFR Part 170, which mandates annual worker and handler safety training, Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ) boundaries during spraying, central posting of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and annual medical clearance and fit-testing for required respirator use.", "permit_burden_note_source": "U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2024-2026, https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/agricultural-worker-protection-standard-wps", "compliance_cost_note": "Compliance costs in the landscaping trade encompass applicator testing/licensing fees, specialty chemical liability insurance, safety protocol compliance, and fleet transition expenses. Individual commercial pesticide applicator licenses typically cost $75 to $300 per applicator alongside $100 to $350 for state business entity licenses (e.g., Colorado Department of Agriculture charging a $350 commercial business fee and $100 qualified supervisor fee). Electrification mandates add substantial compliance overhead: according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), zero-emission commercial mowers cost more than twice as much as gas-powered equivalents ($7,000-$11,000 for gas vs. over $14,000-$22,000 for electric), while a single 3-person commercial landscaping crew requires 30 to 40 batteries and workshop electrical infrastructure retrofits to operate for a full day.", "compliance_cost_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) / Green Industry Pros, 2021, https://www.greenindustrypros.com/mowing-maintenance/article/21763784/california-law-bans-sale-of-gas-powered-small-engines ; Colorado Department of Agriculture, 2025, https://ag.colorado.gov/plants/pesticides/pesticide-applicator-certification-and-licensing-program", "regulatory_tailwind_note": "Regulatory mandates are driving market demand for commercial electrification retrofits, smart irrigation technology, and sustainable landscape management. Under California Air Resources Board (CARB) Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) regulations (Assembly Bill 1346), new small spark-ignition engines at or below 25 horsepower manufactured for model year 2024 and later must achieve zero emissions, supported by state incentive programs like CARB's Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE). Furthermore, water conservation codes like California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO, 23 CCR § 490 et seq. / Title 24 CalGreen) mandate water budgets, climate-adapted low-water plants, and weather-based automatic irrigation controllers for new and renovated landscapes over 500 sq ft, creating strong regulatory demand for licensed landscape contractors.", "regulatory_tailwind_note_source": "California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2021-2024, ; California Department of Water Resources (DWR), 2024, https://water.ca.gov/Programs/Water-Use-And-Efficiency/Urban-Water-Use-Efficiency/Model-Water-Efficient-Landscape-Ordinance", "permit_burden_note_source_access": "url", "compliance_cost_note_source_access": "url", "regulatory_tailwind_note_source_access": "url" }, "data_assets": { "iot_telemetry_penetration_pct": 57, "iot_telemetry_penetration_pct_source": "Aspire, 2025 Landscape Industry Report (2025), https://www.aspire.com", "iot_telemetry_penetration_pct_research_pass_count": 4, "iot_telemetry_penetration_pct_confidence": "low", "iot_telemetry_penetration_pct_source_access": "url" }, "consolidation": { "consolidation_activity": "The U.S. Landscaping & Grounds trade is undergoing active and intense private equity roll-up and consolidation. Industry reports indicate there are more than 50 active private equity platforms operating in the space, driven by severe market fragmentation (over 600,000 operators nationwide), defensive non-discretionary demand, route density economies, and highly predictable recurring commercial contract revenues. Transaction tracking reveals that private equity sponsors account for the majority of sector M&A (e.g., 78 of 108 recorded industry transactions involved PE activity), as sponsors aggressively execute add-on acquisition strategies to scale regional hubs into national platforms.", "consolidation_activity_source": "Greenwich Capital Landscaping Industry Report (2024) [https://www.greenwichgp.com]; Hyde Park Capital Landscaping M&A Report (2025) [https://www.hydeparkcapital.com].", "notable_platforms": "Notable named PE platforms and public acquirers active in the landscaping roll-up space include:\n1. Yellowstone Landscape: Large commercial landscaping PE platform majority-owned by Harvest Partners, with Neuberger Berman Capital Solutions acquiring a significant minority stake in December 2024.\n2. Landscape Workshop: Route-based commercial grounds maintenance platform backed by Ares Management following a majority stake acquisition in May 2025.\n3. Juniper Landscaping: Commercial landscaping platform backed by Bregal Partners, actively rolling up Sunbelt regional providers including Landscape Maintenance Professionals (Sept 2024) and Hilton Head Landscapes (May 2026).\n4. Bland Landscaping: Commercial landscape maintenance platform recapitalized by Comvest Private Equity (Vesterra Capital) in December 2024, acquiring regional add-ons such as Koehn Outdoor (Jan 2025).\n5. BrightView Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BV): Public company and premier commercial landscaping platform serving as a key strategic consolidator nationwide (Form 10-K Annual Report filed Nov 2024).", "notable_platforms_source": "PE Hub (2024, 2025, 2026) [https://www.pehub.com]; SEC EDGAR / BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (2024) [https://www.sec.gov].", "sources": [ "Greenwich Capital - Landscaping Industry Trends & M&A Overview (2024) - https://www.greenwichgp.com", "Hyde Park Capital - Landscaping Services Sector Report (2025) - https://www.hydeparkcapital.com", "PE Hub - Private Equity Landscaping Deal Coverage (2024, 2025, 2026) - https://www.pehub.com", "SEC EDGAR - BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024) - https://www.sec.gov" ], "consolidation_activity_source_access": "url", "notable_platforms_source_access": "url" }, "multiples": { "typical_ebitda_multiple_low": 3, "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_source": "CT Acquisitions (2026), https://ctacquisitions.com; cross-referenced with Sofer Advisors (2026), https://soferadvisors.com and Breakwater M&A (2026), https://breakwaterma.com", "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_research_pass_count": 5, "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_confidence": "med", "typical_ebitda_multiple_high": 12.2, "typical_ebitda_multiple_high_source": "First Page Sage, 'EBITDA Multiples for Private Landscaping Companies, Q1 2025' (2025)", "typical_ebitda_multiple_high_research_pass_count": 5, "typical_ebitda_multiple_high_confidence": "med", "multiple_by_size_note": "Valuation multiples increase consistently with company size and earnings power. For full-service landscaping companies, average multiples are 8.0x for $500k-$1M EBITDA, 10.3x for $1M-$3M EBITDA, and 11.0x for $3M-$10M EBITDA. For commercial grounds management, average multiples scale from 9.9x ($500k-$1M EBITDA) to 11.1x ($1M-$3M EBITDA) and 12.2x ($3M-$10M EBITDA).", "multiple_by_size_note_source": "First Page Sage, 'EBITDA Multiples for Private Landscaping Companies, Q1 2025' (2025)", "multiple_year": "2025", "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_shared_across": 4, "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "typical_ebitda_multiple_low_source_access": "url", "typical_ebitda_multiple_high_source_access": "citation-text-only", "multiple_by_size_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "exit_environment": { "buyer_demand": "Buyer demand for US Landscaping & Grounds businesses is strong and expanding, driven by private equity funds and strategic buyers seeking route-based, resilient revenue in a highly fragmented market. Institutional investors are increasingly moving 'downstream,' offering premium valuation multiples for mid-sized operators ($2 million to $30 million EBITDA) previously considered too small. What buyers value most includes: (1) predictable, contractual recurring revenue streams (commercial maintenance, turf care, tree care, irrigation, and pest control), (2) route density and operational scale, (3) strong management teams and skilled labor that reduce owner dependency, and (4) clean earnings quality and technology adoption.", "buyer_demand_source": "Lawn & Landscape, 2026 State of the M&A Market Report / 2026 M&A Forecast (2026), https://www.lawnandlandscape.com; Forbes Partners, Commercial Landscaping M&A Industry Overview (2025), https://forbes-partners.com", "exit_trend": "Heating up. Deal activity and owner exit opportunities in 2026 are showing strong momentum after a mixed 2025. Acquisition interest has accelerated significantly, with 26% of surveyed landscape business owners reporting 6 to 10 buyer approaches per month in 2026, compared to just 8% in 2025. Strategic consolidators and PE-backed platforms are actively competing for both platform acquisitions and regional tuck-ins.", "exit_trend_source": "Lawn & Landscape, 2026 State of the M&A Market Report (2026), https://www.lawnandlandscape.com", "sources": [ "https://www.lawnandlandscape.com", "https://forbes-partners.com" ], "buyer_demand_source_access": "url", "exit_trend_source_access": "url" }, "demand_drivers": { "installed_base_units": 132500000, "installed_base_units_source": "U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS), 2024, https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential/ (cross-referenced with U.S. Census Bureau Housing Unit Estimates, 2025, https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/)", "installed_base_units_research_pass_count": 5, "installed_base_units_confidence": "med", "replacement_vs_new_note": "Routine landscape maintenance and care of existing properties accounts for approximately 85% to 91.5% of total US Landscaping Services industry revenue, while landscape design and installation for new construction represents the remaining 8.5% to 15%.", "replacement_vs_new_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2025 Industry Statistics, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/NALP/Research/Industry_Statistics/NALP/Research/Industry_Statistics.aspx; IBISWorld, 2026 Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "demand_drivers_note": "Key demand drivers for the US Landscaping & Grounds trade include rising per capita disposable income, high-income household outsourcing of exterior yard care, property value protection and home improvement spending, commercial grounds maintenance standards, climate-resilient landscaping solutions (such as smart irrigation systems and drought-tolerant plantings), and corporate ESG sustainability mandates.", "demand_drivers_note_source": "IBISWorld, 2026 Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/; National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2025 Financial Benchmark and Gardening Insights Studies, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/NALP/Research/Industry_Statistics/NALP/Research/Industry_Statistics.aspx; U.S. Census Bureau, 2026 Value of Construction Put in Place Survey, https://www.census.gov/construction/c30/c30index.html", "installed_base_units_source_access": "url", "replacement_vs_new_note_source_access": "url", "demand_drivers_note_source_access": "url" }, "macro_correlation": { "housing_correlation_note": "Demand for landscaping and grounds services (NAICS 561730) is directly correlated with new residential construction activity and single-family home development. New residential builds generate immediate demand for landscape installation, sod laying, hardscaping, and initial plant materials. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) demonstrate that housing starts (FRED Series HOUST) and residential construction spending (FRED Series TLRESCONS) act as primary macro drivers for landscape installation demand, where a 1% decline in housing starts typically translates to a 0.4%-0.6% revenue headwind for landscape contractors and associated nursery suppliers with a 1-to-2 quarter lag.", "housing_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED), 2026, 'New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units [HOUST]' (https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/HOUST) and 'Total Construction Spending: Residential in the United States [TLRESCONS]' (https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/TLRESCONS).", "commercial_correlation_note": "Commercial grounds and landscaping demand is strongly correlated with nonresidential construction spending and commercial real estate development. Commercial construction outlays allocate budgets for exterior site preparation, turfgrass, tree canopy installation, and hardscaping, which are followed by long-term maintenance contracts. According to the U.S. Census Bureau Value of Construction Put in Place Survey (C30) and FRED nonresidential spending series (TLNRESCONS), expansions in commercial, office, institutional, and municipal construction directly drive post-construction recurring revenue for commercial landscaping management.", "commercial_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED), 2026, 'Total Construction Spending: Nonresidential in the United States [TLNRESCONS]' (https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/TLNRESCONS) and U.S. Census Bureau, 'Value of Construction Put in Place Survey (C30)' (https://www.census.gov/construction/c30/c30index.html).", "climate_sensitivity_note": "Landscaping demand, project types, and operational scheduling are highly sensitive to weather patterns and climate conditions. According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) national survey on climate change, 70% of landscape architects experienced a 10% or greater increase in client demand for climate-resilient and nature-based solutions, such as stormwater management, bioswales, rain gardens, and drought-tolerant native plants, in response to severe weather, intense heatwaves, and flooding risks. Conversely, extreme drought and severe weather events cause immediate operational delays, project rescheduling, and shifts toward low-water xeriscaping.", "climate_sensitivity_note_source": "American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), 2024, 'Second National Survey on Client Demand for Landscape Architecture Solutions to Climate Change' .", "housing_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "commercial_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "climate_sensitivity_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "search_interest": { "yoy_search_change_pct": 65, "yoy_search_change_pct_source": "Invoca / Sixth City Marketing (2025), https://www.sixthcitymarketing.com/ppc/landscaping", "yoy_search_change_pct_research_pass_count": 5, "yoy_search_change_pct_confidence": "med", "search_trend_note": "Consumer search interest for US Landscaping & Grounds services follows a distinct seasonal trend, surging every spring (March through May) across Google Search and Google Trends. According to search data from Invoca cited by Sixth City Marketing (2025), high-intent local queries such as 'landscaping near me' experienced a 65% year-over-year growth in search volume. Additionally, Jobber's Home Service Economic Report (2026) reported that new work scheduled in the Green segment (lawn care and landscaping) grew 3% year-over-year.", "search_trend_note_source": "Sixth City Marketing (2025), https://www.sixthcitymarketing.com/ppc/landscaping/", "yoy_search_change_pct_source_access": "url", "search_trend_note_source_access": "url" }, "cust_acquisition": { "typical_cac_usd": 116, "typical_cac_usd_source": "Focus Digital, 2026 Customer Acquisition Cost Trends Across 27 Industries (https://focus-digital.co)", "typical_cac_usd_research_pass_count": 3, "typical_cac_usd_confidence": "low", "avg_review_volume": 21, "avg_review_volume_source": "YDOP Internet Marketing Study of Landscaping Google Business Profiles (2022)", "avg_review_volume_research_pass_count": 3, "avg_review_volume_confidence": "adjudicated", "complaint_categories": "Incomplete or abandoned work, poor quality or shoddy workmanship, deposit and billing disputes, and failure to provide follow-up services or honor warranties", "complaint_categories_source": "Better Business Bureau (BBB), 2024 Scam Tracker Risk Report & Consumer Landscaping Advisories, https://www.bbb.org", "typical_cac_usd_source_access": "url", "avg_review_volume_source_access": "citation-text-only", "complaint_categories_source_access": "url" } }, "subtrade": { "residential": { "bad_debt": { "bad_debt_write_off_pct": 0.36, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024, https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734200/000173420024000078/bv-20240930.htm", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_confidence": "low", "collection_rate_pct": 85.1, "collection_rate_pct_source": "Level, State of Contractor Finance (2026), https://levelcfo.com/benchmarks", "collection_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 2, "collection_rate_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "bad_debt_year": "2024", "collection_rate_pct_shared_across": 23, "collection_rate_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 23 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source_access": "url", "collection_rate_pct_source_access": "url" }, "cash_cycle_detail": { "dso_days": 54, "dso_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2025 (filed November 19, 2025 with SEC EDGAR, CIK 0001734713), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713", "dso_days_research_pass_count": 3, "dso_days_confidence": "high", "dpo_days": 23.35, "dpo_days_derived": true, "dpo_days_source": "Trade Economy Index research synthesis: median of 1 cited research input: BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2025 (filed November 19, 2025 with SEC EDGAR, CIK 0001734713), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713", "dpo_days_research_pass_count": 2, "dpo_days_confidence": "high-primary", "cash_conversion_cycle_days": 31.37, "cash_conversion_cycle_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch", "cash_conversion_cycle_days_research_pass_count": 1, "cash_conversion_cycle_days_confidence": "low", "cash_cycle_year": "2024", "dso_days_source_access": "url", "dpo_days_source_access": "url", "cash_conversion_cycle_days_source_access": "url" }, "cost_structure": { "labor_pct_of_revenue": 36.7, "labor_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld Industry Report 56173: Landscaping Services in the US, 2009, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "labor_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 3, "labor_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "materials_pct_of_revenue": 11.8, "materials_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld Industry Report 56173: Landscaping Services in the US, 2009, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "materials_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 3, "materials_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "sga_overhead_pct": 17.94, "sga_overhead_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report, 2024, https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000038/bv-20240930.htm", "sga_overhead_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "sga_overhead_pct_confidence": "med", "cost_structure_year": "2025", "labor_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "materials_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "sga_overhead_pct_source_access": "url" }, "demand_drivers": { "installed_base_units": 132500000, "installed_base_units_source": "U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) Housing Characteristics Data, 2024 (released March 2026), https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential", "installed_base_units_research_pass_count": 3, "installed_base_units_confidence": "high-primary", "replacement_vs_new_note": "Demand in the landscaping services trade is heavily dominated by recurring maintenance, landscape enhancements, and replacements on existing properties, representing roughly 70% to 80% of industry operations, while initial landscape design and installation for new construction represents the remaining minority share tied directly to new housing starts and construction completions.", "replacement_vs_new_note_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (2025), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/landscaping-services/1497", "demand_drivers_note": "Primary demand drivers include growth in single-family housing units and aging housing stock requiring ongoing upkeep, increases in real disposable income and home equity, homeowner investments in outdoor living spaces and curb appeal, and expansion in commercial property and HOA outsourcing of recurring groundskeeping and maintenance contracts.", "demand_drivers_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), Industry Statistics (2025), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/LP/LP/Media/landscape-industry-statistics.aspx", "installed_base_units_source_access": "url", "replacement_vs_new_note_source_access": "url", "demand_drivers_note_source_access": "url" }, "macro_correlation": { "housing_correlation_note": "Demand for residential landscaping is positively correlated with residential construction spending and housing completions, as initial landscaping, irrigation, and hardscaping installations occur near the completion phase of new home construction. In addition, existing residential housing stock and home sales drive ongoing recurring demand for home exterior upgrades and grounds maintenance.", "housing_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Total Private Construction Spending: Residential in the United States [PRRESCONS], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PRRESCONS", "commercial_correlation_note": "Commercial construction spending drives demand for commercial groundskeeping, hardscaping, and site beautification across office, retail, and institutional properties. Commercial landscaping projects complement residential demand and provide landscape service operators with multi-year recurring maintenance contracts that reduce revenue volatility during single-family housing market slowdowns.", "commercial_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Total Private Construction Spending: Commercial in the United States [PRCOMCONS], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PRCOMCONS", "climate_sensitivity_note": "Landscaping and grounds demand is highly sensitive to weather and climate patterns, with residential outdoor water use accounting for nearly 8 billion gallons of water daily in the United States. Heightened drought conditions, heat stress, and water conservation regulations driver demand for climate-adaptive landscaping services, including weather-based smart irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensors, xeriscaping, and drought-tolerant native plantings.", "climate_sensitivity_note_source": "U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), WaterSense Program: WaterSense Labeled Controllers, 2026, https://www.epa.gov/watersense/watersense-labeled-controllers", "housing_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "commercial_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "climate_sensitivity_note_source_access": "url" }, "margins": { "gross_margin_pct": 23.33, "gross_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024, https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "gross_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "gross_margin_pct_confidence": "med", "operating_margin_pct": 5.7, "operating_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (2024) - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "operating_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "operating_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "net_margin_pct": 2.4, "net_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (2024) - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm", "net_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "net_margin_pct_confidence": "med", "margin_year": "2024", "net_margin_pct_shared_across": 4, "net_margin_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "gross_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "operating_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "net_margin_pct_source_access": "url" }, "productivity": { "revenue_per_employee_usd": 123000, "revenue_per_employee_usd_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Financial Benchmark Report, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/NALP/NALP/News/2025-Financial-Benchmark-Report.aspx (Cross-checked with U.S. Census Bureau NAICS 561730 Landscaping Services Receipts-per-Employee analysis of $135,132, and Kentley Insights 2025 Landscaping Services Report at $164,125, https://www.kentleyinsights.com/)", "revenue_per_employee_usd_research_pass_count": 3, "revenue_per_employee_usd_confidence": "med", "productivity_year": "2025", "revenue_per_employee_usd_source_access": "url" }, "retainage_liens": { "retainage_year": "2021" }, "search_interest": { "yoy_search_change_pct": 65, "yoy_search_change_pct_source": "Invoca (via Sixth City Marketing), 2026", "yoy_search_change_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "yoy_search_change_pct_confidence": "med", "search_trend_note": "Consumer search interest for US residential landscaping and grounds services demonstrates strong upward momentum, driven by high-intent local queries such as 'landscaping near me' which experienced 65% year-over-year search volume growth according to search data, as an estimated 78% of homeowners research online before hiring a landscaping provider.", "search_trend_note_source": "Sixth City Marketing, 2026", "yoy_search_change_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "search_trend_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "seasonality_econ": { "peak_period_note": "Revenue and net income in the landscaping services industry peak during the spring and summer months (corresponding to calendar Q2 and Q3, or fiscal Q3 and Q4 ending June 30 and September 30 for public operators like BrightView). Demand is concentrated in these months due to non-year-round growing seasons, increased lawn maintenance needs, and customer landscape enhancement projects.", "peak_period_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000042/bv-20240930.htm", "cyclicality_note": "The industry exhibits mixed cyclicality and high weather exposure. Essential landscape maintenance generates stable, recurring contracted revenue, but discretionary landscape enhancements and development services are cyclical, fluctuating with housing starts, commercial construction, macro-economic conditions, and corporate/consumer confidence. Weather conditions (including rainfall, droughts, extreme heat, and winter snowfall variability) create significant short-term revenue and margin volatility.", "cyclicality_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000042/bv-20240930.htm", "peak_period_note_source_access": "url", "cyclicality_note_source_access": "url" } }, "commercial": { "bad_debt": { "bad_debt_write_off_pct": 0.36, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713 (cross-checked against Level CFO State of Contractor Finance Benchmark Report, 2025, https://levelcfo.com/benchmarks/general-contractor/)", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_confidence": "med", "collection_rate_pct": 85.1, "collection_rate_pct_source": "Level CFO, State of Contractor Finance Benchmarks (2026), https://levelcfo.com/reports/state-of-contractor-finance-2026", "collection_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 2, "collection_rate_pct_confidence": "low", "bad_debt_year": "2026", "collection_rate_pct_shared_across": 23, "collection_rate_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 23 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source_access": "url", "collection_rate_pct_source_access": "url" }, "cash_cycle_detail": { "dso_days": 55, "dso_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024, SEC EDGAR (https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000045/bv-20240930.htm)", "dso_days_research_pass_count": 3, "dso_days_confidence": "high-primary", "dpo_days": 21.7, "dpo_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Financial Analysis via GuruFocus (2025), https://www.gurufocus.com/stock/BV/summary", "dpo_days_research_pass_count": 2, "dpo_days_confidence": "low", "cash_conversion_cycle_days": 33.52, "cash_conversion_cycle_days_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Financial Ratios, 2024, https://www.gurufocus.com/stock/BV/financials", "cash_conversion_cycle_days_research_pass_count": 1, "cash_conversion_cycle_days_confidence": "low", "cash_cycle_year": "2023-2024", "dso_days_source_access": "url", "dpo_days_source_access": "url", "cash_conversion_cycle_days_source_access": "url" }, "cost_structure": { "labor_pct_of_revenue": 35, "labor_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld Industry Report 56173: Landscaping Services in the US (2025), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "labor_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 3, "labor_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "low", "materials_pct_of_revenue": 32.6, "materials_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (NAICS 56173) Cost Structure Benchmarks (2020), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/. Cross-checked with Aspire Green Industry Benchmark Survey (2025), which cites material purchases between 20.0% and 30.0% of revenue for maintenance/design-build operations.", "materials_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 3, "materials_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "adjudicated", "sga_overhead_pct": 17.1, "sga_overhead_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc., Form 10-K Annual Report for Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2025, Consolidated Statements of Operations (Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses of $457.8M on $2,672.8M Net Service Revenue), https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=0001734713. Cross-checked with CFMA (Construction Financial Management Association) 2024 Financial Benchmarker for Specialty Trade Contractors (NAICS 238), reporting average overhead ratios of 18.0% to 25.0%.", "sga_overhead_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "sga_overhead_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "cost_structure_year": "2024", "labor_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "materials_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "sga_overhead_pct_source_access": "url" }, "demand_drivers": { "installed_base_units": 5900000, "installed_base_units_source": "U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) 2018 (2021), https://www.eia.gov/consumption/commercial", "installed_base_units_research_pass_count": 3, "installed_base_units_confidence": "high-primary", "replacement_vs_new_note": "According to BrightView Holdings' FY2025 SEC Form 10-K, commercial landscaping revenue is split between Maintenance Services (recurring maintenance, repairs/enhancements, and snow removal) representing approximately 71% ($1,891.3M) and Development Services (new construction installations and large-scale redesigns) representing approximately 29% ($789.1M). Similarly, SiteOne Landscape Supply's FY2025 SEC Form 10-K reports overall end-market demand split across 36% routine maintenance, 30% repair & upgrade/replacement, and 34% new construction.", "replacement_vs_new_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc., SEC Form 10-K for FY2025 (2025), https://www.sec.gov/edgar; SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc., SEC Form 10-K for FY2025 (2026), https://www.sec.gov/edgar", "demand_drivers_note": "Primary demand drivers for US commercial landscaping include private and public non-residential construction spending, expansion of commercial building stock and floor space, corporate campus and HOA outsourcing of property maintenance, non-discretionary contractual requirements for commercial property curb appeal and safety, and investments in smart irrigation, water efficiency, and sustainability upgrades.", "demand_drivers_note_source": "IBISWorld, 'Landscaping Services in the US' (2025); U.S. Census Bureau, 'Value of Construction Put in Place Survey' (2024), https://www.census.gov/construction/c30/c30index.html", "installed_base_units_shared_across": 15, "installed_base_units_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 15 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "installed_base_units_source_access": "url", "replacement_vs_new_note_source_access": "url", "demand_drivers_note_source_access": "url" }, "macro_correlation": { "housing_correlation_note": "Demand for residential landscaping is strongly correlated with housing starts and residential construction spending, though with a distinct lag. Initial housing starts generate high-margin design and installation revenue during the final exterior phase of construction, which subsequently converts into long-term, recurring maintenance contracts once units are completed. According to U.S. Census Bureau and HUD New Residential Construction data (2026), housing starts stood at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.18 million units, while private residential construction spending put-in-place reached $922.04 billion. Industry analysis by IBISWorld (2026) indicates that residential properties account for over 60% of total landscape service revenue, showing that residential buildouts and home completions directly expand the addressable base for multi-year lawn care and groundskeeping agreements.", "housing_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau & HUD New Residential Construction (2026) [https://www.census.gov/construction/nrc/index.html]; IBISWorld Landscaping Services Industry Report (2026) [https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/]", "commercial_correlation_note": "Commercial landscaping and grounds maintenance demand correlates directly with non-residential commercial construction spending and total operating commercial floor space. According to the U.S. Census Bureau Value of Construction Put in Place Survey (2026), total non-residential construction spending reached a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.25 trillion. While new commercial project starts drive capital expenditure for hardscaping, grading, and site plantings, long-term grounds maintenance demand is sustained by the expansive existing footprint of commercial structures. Data from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) EIA Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS, 2022/2025) records 5.9 million commercial buildings containing 96 billion square feet of floor space in the U.S., projected to reach 125 to 143 billion square feet by mid-century, providing a steady baseline of recurring facility management and ESG-driven exterior upgrade contracts.", "commercial_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Value of Construction Put in Place Survey (2026) [https://www.census.gov/construction/c30/c30index.html]; U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) EIA Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (2022/2025) [https://www.eia.gov/consumption/commercial/]", "climate_sensitivity_note": "Grounds maintenance and commercial landscaping exhibit high sensitivity to short-term weather volatility and long-term climate trends. Extreme heat waves, drought, and severe storm events cause immediate disruption to routine service schedules, while simultaneously driving structural shifts toward water conservation and climate-resilient outdoor spaces. According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) National Climate Change Survey (2024), 70% of surveyed landscape architects and designers reported increased client demand for climate-adaptive design solutions over the prior year, driven by client concerns regarding storm intensity, heat waves, and water restrictions. This has accelerated commercial adoption of smart weather-responsive irrigation, bioswales, and native drought-tolerant plantings.", "climate_sensitivity_note_source": "American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) National Climate Change Survey (2024) []; IBISWorld Landscaping Services Industry Report (2026) [https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/]", "housing_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "commercial_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "climate_sensitivity_note_source_access": "url" }, "margins": { "gross_margin_pct": 23.3, "gross_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. SEC Form 10-K (FY 2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000039/bv-20240930.htm (Gross Profit $645.6M on $2,767.1M Net Service Revenues = 23.33%); cross-checked against National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Financial Benchmark Study, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "gross_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "gross_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "operating_margin_pct": 5.7, "operating_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. SEC Form 10-K (FY 2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000039/bv-20240930.htm (Income from Operations $156.9M on $2,767.1M Net Service Revenues = 5.67%); cross-checked against IBISWorld Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report (2024/2025), https://www.ibisworld.com", "operating_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "operating_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "net_margin_pct": 2.4, "net_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K (FY2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000035/bv-20240930.htm", "net_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "net_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "margin_year": "2024", "net_margin_pct_shared_across": 4, "net_margin_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "gross_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "operating_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "net_margin_pct_source_access": "url" }, "productivity": { "revenue_per_employee_usd": 123000, "revenue_per_employee_usd_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Financial Benchmark Study, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/NALP/NALP/Read/Articles/Financial-Benchmark-Report.aspx (cross-checked against U.S. Census Bureau 2022 Economic Census NAICS 561730, https://www.census.gov)", "revenue_per_employee_usd_research_pass_count": 3, "revenue_per_employee_usd_confidence": "med", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd": 45, "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_source": "Level CFO, 2026 Landscaping Industry Benchmarks, https://www.levelcfo.com/services/landscaping", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_research_pass_count": 1, "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_confidence": "low", "productivity_year": "2022-2026", "revenue_per_employee_usd_source_access": "url", "gross_profit_per_labor_hour_usd_source_access": "url" }, "retainage_liens": { "typical_retainage_pct": 5, "typical_retainage_pct_source": "Revised Code of Washington (RCW) § 60.28.011, 2024, https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=60.28.011", "typical_retainage_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "typical_retainage_pct_confidence": "low", "retainage_year": "2022", "typical_retainage_pct_source_access": "url" }, "search_interest": { "yoy_search_change_pct": 23, "yoy_search_change_pct_confidence": "low", "search_trend_note": "Search interest for US commercial landscaping and grounds maintenance services exhibits strong upward momentum. A published search-volume study by Halstead Media (2025) reports that commercial landscaping keyword searches surged 228% between 2021 and 2025. This search demand is cross-validated by trade market reporting from Mordor Intelligence (2026, https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-states-landscaping-market), which highlights that commercial sector demand is expanding at a 7.06% CAGR through 2031. Additionally, search strategy data from BaaDigi (2026) shows that search interest for commercial grounds maintenance spikes annually between February and April as commercial property managers actively source vendor contracts.", "search_trend_note_source": "Halstead Media (2025) Mordor Intelligence (2026) https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-states-landscaping-market; BaaDigi (2026)", "yoy_search_change_pct_shared_across": 4, "yoy_search_change_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "search_trend_note_source_access": "url" }, "seasonality_econ": { "peak_period_note": "Demand for commercial landscaping services is highly seasonal, with peak revenue and net income occurring during the spring and summer seasons (corresponding to fiscal Q3 and Q4, ending June 30 and September 30, respectively), driven by increased service intensity for mowing, planting, mulching, and property enhancements.", "peak_period_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000040/bv-20240930.htm", "cyclicality_note": "Commercial landscaping contractors face exposure to both weather conditions and general economic cycles. Weather conditions (including rainfall, drought, severe storms, and winter snowfall levels) dictate service timing, maintenance frequency, and snow removal revenues. Macroeconomic trends and construction cycles influence commercial development project starts, customer property maintenance budgets, and optional landscape repair and upgrade spending.", "cyclicality_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000040/bv-20240930.htm", "peak_period_note_source_access": "url", "cyclicality_note_source_access": "url" } }, "industrial": { "bad_debt": { "bad_debt_write_off_pct": 0.12, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source": "EMCOR Group, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024, https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/105634/000010563425000007/eme-20241231.htm", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_confidence": "adjudicated", "collection_rate_pct": 85.1, "collection_rate_pct_source": "Level CFO Contractor Financial Benchmarks (https://levelcfo.com/benchmarks/contractor/)", "collection_rate_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "collection_rate_pct_confidence": "low", "bad_debt_year": "2024", "collection_rate_pct_shared_across": 23, "collection_rate_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 23 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_shared_across": 7, "bad_debt_write_off_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 7 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "bad_debt_write_off_pct_source_access": "url", "collection_rate_pct_source_access": "url" }, "cash_cycle_detail": { "dso_days": 56.6, "dso_days_source": "CFMA 2024 Financial Benchmarker, Construction Financial Management Association (2024), https://cfma.org", "dso_days_research_pass_count": 3, "dso_days_confidence": "high", "dpo_days": 33, "dpo_days_source": "CFMA 2022 Construction Financial Benchmarker Executive Summary, Construction Financial Management Association (2022), https://cfma.org", "dpo_days_research_pass_count": 1, "dpo_days_confidence": "low", "cash_cycle_year": "2024", "dpo_days_shared_across": 8, "dpo_days_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 8 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "dso_days_shared_across": 11, "dso_days_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 11 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "dso_days_source_access": "url", "dpo_days_source_access": "url" }, "cost_structure": { "labor_pct_of_revenue": 34.6, "labor_pct_of_revenue_derived": true, "labor_pct_of_revenue_source": "Trade Economy Index research synthesis: median of 2 cited research inputs: IBISWorld Industry Report 56173: Landscaping Services in the US (2020) - https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry | IBISWorld Industry Report: Landscaping Services in the US (NAICS 561730), 2009, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "labor_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 2, "labor_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "high", "materials_pct_of_revenue": 25.8, "materials_pct_of_revenue_source": "IBISWorld Industry Report: Landscaping Services in the US (NAICS 561730), 2009, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "materials_pct_of_revenue_research_pass_count": 2, "materials_pct_of_revenue_confidence": "med", "sga_overhead_pct": 17.9, "sga_overhead_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 - https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000049/bv-20240930.htm", "sga_overhead_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "sga_overhead_pct_confidence": "high", "cost_structure_year": "2024", "labor_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "materials_pct_of_revenue_source_access": "url", "sga_overhead_pct_source_access": "url" }, "demand_drivers": { "installed_base_units": 5900000, "installed_base_units_source": "U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), 2018 Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) (published September 2021, revised September 2022), https://www.eia.gov/consumption/commercial/data/2018/bc/pdf/CBECS_2018_Building_Characteristics_Flipbook.pdf", "installed_base_units_research_pass_count": 3, "installed_base_units_confidence": "high-primary", "replacement_vs_new_note": "Demand in the landscape services industry is overwhelmingly driven by recurring maintenance, replacement, and routine upkeep, which accounts for roughly 60% to 91.5% of total revenue (IBISWorld estimates maintenance services comprise 91.5% of market revenue, while NALP financial benchmark reports cite recurring maintenance contracts at 60%), with new landscape construction, installation, and design-build comprising the remaining 8.5% to 40%.", "replacement_vs_new_note_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (2026), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry/ ; National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2025 Financial Benchmark Study (2025), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/NALP/Industry_Data/Industry_Statistics.aspx", "demand_drivers_note": "Primary demand drivers for commercial and industrial grounds maintenance include private nonresidential construction momentum, commercial property operating and maintenance budgets, corporate ESG and sustainability mandates (driving demand for drought-tolerant native plantings, smart water-efficient irrigation, and battery-powered equipment), interest rates affecting capital expenditure approvals, and overall business confidence.", "demand_drivers_note_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), Executive Interview & 2026 Economic Outlook (2026), https://prolandscapermagazine.com/exclusive-nalp-ceo-brittram-wood-shares-insight-into-key-macroeconomic-trends-shaping-2026/ ; IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US (2026), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "installed_base_units_shared_across": 15, "installed_base_units_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 15 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "installed_base_units_source_access": "url", "replacement_vs_new_note_source_access": "url", "demand_drivers_note_source_access": "url" }, "macro_correlation": { "housing_correlation_note": "Residential construction spending and new housing starts directly correlate with initial demand for landscaping installation and design services. While housing start cycles create volatility in project-based installation work, residential property maintenance offers steady baseline recurring revenue that remains resilient even during residential turnover slowdowns.", "housing_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units [HOUST], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/HOUST; and IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "commercial_correlation_note": "Commercial nonresidential construction spending correlates strongly with higher-value grounds maintenance and institutional landscape contracts. Commercial, office, and institutional property owners provide long-term recurring contract income and higher average revenue per service call, buffering landscape companies against cyclical slowdowns in single-family home building.", "commercial_correlation_note_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Total Construction Spending: Nonresidential in the United States [TLNRESCONS], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/TLNRESCONS; and IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "climate_sensitivity_note": "Grounds maintenance demand is highly sensitive to climate and weather variations. Extended growing seasons and higher temperatures increase required mowing cycles, pest control interventions, and turf management, while heat stress and drought drive demand for climate-adaptive services including smart drip irrigation, xeriscaping, and drought-tolerant native plantings.", "climate_sensitivity_note_source": "Attentive.ai, The Impact of Climate Change on Lawn Care & Landscapes, 2024, and IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in the US Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "housing_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "commercial_correlation_note_source_access": "url", "climate_sensitivity_note_source_access": "url" }, "margins": { "gross_margin_pct": 23.33, "gross_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000043/bv-20240930.htm; cross-checked against National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 Industry Benchmark (commercial grounds target range 25.0%-35.0%), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "gross_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "gross_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "operating_margin_pct": 5.67, "operating_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000043/bv-20240930.htm; cross-checked against IBISWorld Landscaping Services Industry Report (2025 operating profit margin benchmark range 15.0%-25.0%), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "operating_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "operating_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "net_margin_pct": 2.4, "net_margin_pct_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc. Form 10-K Annual Report (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001734713/000173471324000040/bv-20240930.htm", "net_margin_pct_research_pass_count": 3, "net_margin_pct_confidence": "high-primary", "margin_year": "2024", "net_margin_pct_shared_across": 4, "net_margin_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 4 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "gross_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "operating_margin_pct_source_access": "url", "net_margin_pct_source_access": "url" }, "productivity": { "revenue_per_employee_usd": 157000, "revenue_per_employee_usd_source": "IBISWorld Landscaping Services in the US Market Report (2025), https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "revenue_per_employee_usd_research_pass_count": 3, "revenue_per_employee_usd_confidence": "med", "billable_utilization_pct": 65, "billable_utilization_pct_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) Industry Report (2023), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "billable_utilization_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "billable_utilization_pct_confidence": "low", "productivity_year": "2025", "billable_utilization_pct_shared_across": 7, "billable_utilization_pct_note": "This figure is an industry-wide benchmark, not a per-trade measurement: the same value is published for 7 trade or segment records in this dataset. Read it as the specialty-trade baseline, not as a finding that distinguishes this trade from another.", "revenue_per_employee_usd_source_access": "url", "billable_utilization_pct_source_access": "url" }, "retainage_liens": { "payment_dispute_pct": 82, "payment_dispute_pct_source": "CFMA Construction Industry Payment Friction Data (2024) - https://www.cfma.org", "payment_dispute_pct_research_pass_count": 1, "payment_dispute_pct_confidence": "low", "retainage_year": "2023", "lien_frequency_note": "According to Levelset's Construction Cash Flow & Payment Report, 51% of construction contractors reported filing a mechanics lien to secure unpaid receivables, while CFMA industry reports highlight that 65% of subcontractors filed liens following severe payment delays.", "lien_frequency_note_source": "CFMA Lien Rights & Waiver Requirements (2024) - https://www.cfma.org", "payment_dispute_pct_source_access": "url", "lien_frequency_note_source_access": "url" }, "search_interest": { "yoy_search_change_pct": 31, "yoy_search_change_pct_source": "Marketing LTB (2025)", "yoy_search_change_pct_research_pass_count": 2, "yoy_search_change_pct_confidence": "low", "search_trend_note": "Search interest for US commercial and industrial landscaping & grounds services exhibits strong positive momentum. Search volume data indicates that commercial landscaping keyword searches surged by +228% between 2021 and 2025, with sustainable landscaping searches rising 38% over the same period (Halstead Media, 2025). Additionally, voice-initiated searches for landscaping services grew by 31% year-over-year, reflecting broader expanding digital search demand for local and commercial grounds maintenance services (Marketing LTB, 2025).", "search_trend_note_source": "Halstead Media (2025); Marketing LTB (2025)", "yoy_search_change_pct_source_access": "citation-text-only", "search_trend_note_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "seasonality_econ": { "peak_period_note": "Industry revenues and net income peak during the spring and summer seasons (corresponding to Q3 and Q4 of the fiscal year ending September 30, covering April through September), driven by seasonal landscape maintenance services such as increased mulching, flower planting, and intensive mowing, whereas activity in seasonal markets drops during winter months.", "peak_period_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc., Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000037/bv-20240930.htm", "cyclicality_note": "The industry faces both weather-related and macroeconomic exposure. Quarter-to-quarter performance varies with weather patterns such as abnormally high rainfall, drought, severe storms, and snowfall levels (which dictate counter-seasonal winter snow removal revenue). Economic exposure includes delays or declines in new commercial real estate construction, general recessionary pressures, interest rate movements, inflation, and reductions in customer discretionary spending or outsourcing for landscape enhancement services.", "cyclicality_note_source": "BrightView Holdings, Inc., Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 (2024), https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1734713/000173471324000037/bv-20240930.htm", "peak_period_note_source_access": "url", "cyclicality_note_source_access": "url" } } }, "segments": { "bands": [ { "band": "0-1M", "band_label": "under $1M annual revenue (owner-operator / very small shop)", "metrics": { "gross_margin_pct": { "value": 40, "source": "NALP 2025 Financial Benchmark Report, https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "confidence": "high", "basis": "Gross profit as % of revenue for under $1M annual revenue landscaping contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "collection_rate_pct": { "value": 85.1, "source": "Level CFO 2026 Contractor Benchmark Study, https://www.levelcfo.com", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Median cash collected as % of total invoiced revenue across trade contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "dso_days": { "value": 56.6, "source": "CFMA Construction Financial Benchmarker FY 2023, https://www.cfma.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Days sales outstanding (DSO) benchmark for Specialty Trade contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "recurring_rev_pct": { "value": 75, "source": "Lawn & Landscape 2025 Landscape Industry Report, https://www.lawnandlandscape.com", "confidence": "med", "basis": "Recurring maintenance revenue share for maintenance-focused landscape operators", "source_access": "url" } } }, { "band": "1-5M", "band_label": "$1M to $5M annual revenue (small established contractor)", "metrics": { "gross_margin_pct": { "value": 22.4, "source": "CFMA 2025 https://www.cfma.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Gross profit margin for Specialty Trade contractors across all revenue tiers", "source_access": "url" }, "dso_days": { "value": 56.6, "source": "CFMA 2024 https://www.cfma.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Average days sales outstanding (DSO) in accounts receivable across construction contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "recurring_rev_pct": { "value": 55, "source": "CT Acquisitions 2026 https://www.ctacquisitions.com", "confidence": "med", "basis": "Share of recurring maintenance contract revenue for $1M to $5M landscaping operators", "source_access": "url" } } }, { "band": "5-20M", "band_label": "$5M to $20M annual revenue (mid-market, multi-crew)", "metrics": { "gross_margin_pct": { "value": 47.5, "source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals 2025 https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "confidence": "high", "basis": "Median gross profit margin benchmark range (45-50%) for landscape contractors (median respondent revenue $5.2M)", "source_access": "url" }, "dso_days": { "value": 36.5, "source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals 2025 https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Average Days Sales Outstanding range (28-45 days) across landscaping contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "recurring_rev_pct": { "value": 60, "source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals 2025 https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Benchmark share of annual revenue derived from recurring maintenance service contracts", "source_access": "url" } } }, { "band": "20M+", "band_label": "over $20M annual revenue (large / regional / PE-backed)", "metrics": { "gross_margin_pct": { "value": 47.5, "source": "Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) 2024 https://cfma.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "CFMA 2024 Benchmarker gross profit margin range (40-55%) for Landscaping/Hardscaping", "source_access": "url" }, "collection_rate_pct": { "value": 85.1, "source": "Level CFO analysis of 464 contractors, https://levelcfo.com/benchmarks/contractor", "confidence": "low", "basis": "Median cash collected as a percentage of amounts billed, n=464 companies", "source_access": "url" }, "dso_days": { "value": 56.6, "source": "Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) 2024 https://cfma.org", "confidence": "low", "basis": "CFMA 2024 Benchmarker average Days Sales Outstanding for specialty trade contractors", "source_access": "url" }, "recurring_rev_pct": { "value": 60, "source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) 2025 https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org", "confidence": "med", "basis": "NALP 2025 benchmark for recurring maintenance revenue share in scaled commercial landscape operations", "source_access": "url" } } } ] }, "geo": { "states": [ { "name": "Alabama", "where": "AL", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 16.26, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -9.47, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_al.htm and https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "Alabama does not require a state-level general contractor license for basic landscaping maintenance, lawn care, mowing, or planting. However, state-level credentials exist for specific activities: 1) The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) requires a Horticulture Professional Services License ($175 annual fee) for businesses engaging in Setting of Landscape Plants (SLP), Landscape Design (LD), Tree Surgery, or Ornamental & Turf Pest Control, requiring a certified operator who passes an exam ($75 in-person / $125 online); 2) Commercial landscape installation or hardscaping projects valued at $50,000 or more require a General Contractor License from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors (ALBGC). Local business privilege licenses are required by individual cities and counties.", "license_source": "Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, 2025, https://agi.alabama.gov/ and Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, 2026, https://genconbd.alabama.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Statewide surety bonds are not required for general landscaping or horticulture professional services. Commercial pesticide applicators and horticulture licensees under ADAI must carry $100,000/$100,000 general liability insurance. General contractors licensed by the ALBGC (projects $50,000+) must demonstrate minimum net worth and working capital of $10,000 (or provide a board-approved line of credit) along with general liability insurance.", "bonding_source": "Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, 2026, https://genconbd.alabama.gov/ and Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, 2025, https://agi.alabama.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS May 2023 data, Alabama employs 11,450 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a concentration of 5.578 workers per 1,000 total state jobs. IBISWorld estimates 8,653 industry locations and 17,480 total industry workers in Alabama.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_al.htm and IBISWorld Landscaping Services in Alabama Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 16.26 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Alaska", "where": "AK", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 21.43, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 19.32, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ak.htm", "license_regime": "State-level licensing is required in Alaska. Contractors offering landscaping services must register with the state as a Specialty Contractor under the designation 'Landscaping Contractor' (12 AAC 21.370). State licensing tiers for construction contractors include General Contractor, Residential Contractor (with endorsement), Mechanical Contractor, and Specialty Contractor (restricted to a maximum of three trade categories).", "license_source": "Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED), Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing, Construction Contractors Program, 2024, https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/ConstructionContractors.aspx", "bonding_requirement": "Specialty contractors in Alaska must post a $10,000 surety bond (or cashier's check / time certificate of deposit) pursuant to AS 08.18.071. Proof of general liability insurance is required with minimum limits of $20,000 for property damage, $50,000 for injury/death to one person, and $100,000 for injury/death to multiple persons, as well as statutory workers' compensation insurance if employees are hired.", "bonding_source": "Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED), Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing, Specialty Contractor Application & AS 08.18.071, 2025, https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/ConstructionContractors.aspx", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS data for Alaska, there were 920 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in the state, representing a density of 2.958 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a location quotient of 0.48.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ak.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 21.43 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Arizona", "where": "AZ", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.83, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -0.72, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_az.htm", "license_regime": "State-level contractor licensure is required through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC) for landscaping and hardscaping projects costing $1,000 or more (labor and materials combined) or requiring a permit. Primary classification tiers include R-21 (Residential Hardscaping and Irrigation Systems), C-21 (Commercial Hardscaping and Irrigation Systems), and CR-21 (Dual Residential and Commercial). Routine lawn mowing and basic garden care under $1,000 are exempt from state contractor licensing.", "license_source": "Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC), 2024, https://roc.az.gov", "bonding_requirement": "AZ ROC requires a continuous surety bond under A.R.S. § 32-1152 based on expected annual gross volume: $4,250 to $15,000 for residential specialty (R-21), $2,500 to $50,000 for commercial specialty (C-21), and the sum of both for dual licenses (CR-21). Workers' compensation insurance is also required if the contractor employs staff.", "bonding_source": "Arizona State Legislature / Arizona Registrar of Contractors, 2024, https://www.azleg.gov/ars/32/01152.htm", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to IBISWorld industry research, the Landscaping Services industry in Arizona employs 41,976 workers in 2026. BLS OEWS statistics specifically count 20,720 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) across Arizona as of May 2023.", "market_source": "IBISWorld, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.83 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Arkansas", "where": "AR", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 15.17, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -15.53, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Arkansas, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ar.htm", "license_regime": "Arkansas does not require a general state-level trade license for basic lawn mowing or grounds maintenance. However, state contractor licensing is regulated by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) for commercial construction/landscaping projects valued at $50,000 or more (labor plus materials) or residential projects valued at $2,000 or more. Additionally, any commercial application of pesticides or herbicides requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (Category 3 - Ornamental and Turf) issued by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture State Plant Board (ASPB). Local municipal business licenses apply for basic maintenance operations.", "license_source": "Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board & Arkansas Department of Agriculture State Plant Board, 2024, https://www.aclb.arkansas.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Commercial contractors licensed by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board must maintain a $10,000 surety bond. Commercial pesticide applicators certified by ASPB must show proof of $100,000 financial responsibility/liability coverage. Workers' Compensation insurance is required for businesses with 3 or more employees.", "bonding_source": "Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, 2024, https://www.aclb.arkansas.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, Arkansas had 6,470 total workers employed as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an employment density of 5.087 per 1,000 total jobs and a location quotient of 0.83 relative to national employment concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Arkansas, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ar.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 15.17 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "California", "where": "CA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 19.62, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 9.24, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ca.htm", "license_regime": "A state-level license is required in California for any landscaping project where total contract costs (labor and materials) are $500 or more. The license is administered at the state level by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) under the Class C-27 Landscaping Contractor classification. Applicants must demonstrate 4 years of journeyman-level experience and pass both the Law & Business exam and the C-27 Trade exam.", "license_source": "California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), 2024, https://www.cslb.ca.gov", "bonding_requirement": "California requires a $25,000 contractor license bond (or cashier's deposit) filed with CSLB for all licensed contractors (increased from $15,000 as of January 1, 2023 per Senate Bill 607). Contractors structured as LLCs must post an additional $100,000 surety bond to protect employees. Workers' compensation insurance is also required for all contractors with employees.", "bonding_source": "California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) / Senate Bill 607, 2023", "market_size_or_density_note": "California represents the single largest state market in the United States for landscaping and groundskeeping workers (SOC 37-3011), with total occupational employment of 105,790 workers as of May 2023 and an employment density of 5.90 workers per 1,000 jobs.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ca.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 19.62 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Colorado", "where": "CO", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 21.26, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 18.37, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_co.htm", "license_regime": "No statewide contractor license is required for general landscaping and groundskeeping in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Division of Professions and Occupations regulates trades such as electrical and plumbing at the state level, leaving general contracting and specialty trades like landscaping to local municipal and county jurisdictions.", "license_source": "Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations, 2024, https://dora.colorado.gov", "bonding_requirement": "There are no state-level bonding or insurance minimums for general landscaping contractors because licensing is not mandated at the state level; surety bond and general liability insurance requirements are established by individual local cities or counties.", "bonding_source": "Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations, 2024, https://dora.colorado.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Colorado employed 22,380 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing 7.903 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the state and a location quotient of 1.29.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_co.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 21.26 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Connecticut", "where": "CT", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 21.5, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 19.71, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ct.htm", "license_regime": "Connecticut does not require a specific state-level trade license for basic landscaping or groundskeeping (mowing, planting, trimming, or basic maintenance). However, residential hardscaping or structural ground improvements exceeding $200 per project (or $1,000 annually) require registration as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) under CGS § 20-419. Commercial pesticide application and tree care require specialized credentials from the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), such as Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification (CGS § 22a-54) or an Arborist license (CGS § 23-61a).", "license_source": "Connecticut Office of Legislative Research (OLR) / Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), 2014, https://www.cga.ct.gov/2014/rpt/2014-R-0042.htm", "bonding_requirement": "Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration with the Department of Consumer Protection requires maintaining a $15,000 surety bond along with general liability insurance coverage.", "bonding_source": "Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) / Connecticut General Statutes, 2023, https://portal.ct.gov/dcp", "market_size_or_density_note": "Connecticut employed 13,550 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an employment density of 8.161 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.33 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ct.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 21.5 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Delaware", "where": "DE", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.65, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -1.73, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2024 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_de.htm)", "license_regime": "Delaware does not issue a state-level landscape contractor trade license. However, landscape businesses must obtain a Delaware Division of Revenue Business License, register with the Delaware Department of Labor under the Delaware Contractor Registration Act, and obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator / Pesticide Business License from the Delaware Department of Agriculture if applying pesticides or herbicides.", "license_source": "Delaware Department of Agriculture & Delaware Department of Labor, 2024 (https://dda.delaware.gov and https://labor.delaware.gov)", "bonding_requirement": "No statewide surety bond or trade insurance is required for basic landscaping. However, businesses holding a Pesticide Business License through the Delaware Department of Agriculture must provide proof of liability insurance with minimum limits of $300,000 per occurrence for bodily injury/death and $100,000 per occurrence for property damage (or an equivalent surety bond).", "bonding_source": "Delaware Department of Agriculture, 3 DE Admin. Code 601 Pesticide Rules and Regulations, 2023 (https://dda.delaware.gov)", "market_size_or_density_note": "Delaware employed 3,570 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a workforce density of 7.60 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.24 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2024 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_de.htm)", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.65 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Florida", "where": "FL", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.05, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -5.07, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State OEWS (Florida) and National OEWS, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_fl.htm", "license_regime": "Florida does not require a statewide contractor license for basic landscaping or grounds maintenance work (such as mowing, trimming, mulching, and planting). However, specific ancillary services require state credentials: installing or repairing irrigation systems requires a Certified or Registered Irrigation Contractor license from the DBPR Construction Industry Licensing Board under F.S. Chapter 489; applying commercial fertilizer requires Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) training and an FDACS Limited Commercial Urban Fertilizer Applicator License under F.S. 482.1562; applying pesticides/herbicides requires an FDACS Commercial Landscape Maintenance Applicator License under F.S. Chapter 482; and professional landscape architectural design requires a DBPR Landscape Architect license under F.S. Chapter 481. Local business tax receipts may also be required at the county or municipal level.", "license_source": "Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) & Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), 2024, https://www.myfloridalicense.com and https://www.fdacs.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Florida does not impose state-mandated surety bond or liability insurance requirements for general landscaping maintenance operators. For contractors holding a DBPR Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) Division II specialty license (such as Irrigation Contractors), state regulations require minimum public liability and property damage insurance ($100,000 bodily injury / $50,000 property damage), proof of workers' compensation insurance or exemption, and a $10,000 financial responsibility bond if the applicant's credit score is below 660.", "bonding_source": "Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Construction Industry Licensing Board, 2024, https://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/construction-industry", "market_size_or_density_note": "Florida employed 82,770 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in May 2023, representing an occupational density of 8.65 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.41. U.S. Census Bureau County Business Patterns data records over 10,000 Landscaping Services establishments (NAICS 561730) operating within the state.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Florida Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_fl.htm; U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns, https://www.census.gov", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.05 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Georgia", "where": "GA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.19, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -4.29, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ga.htm", "license_regime": "Georgia does not require a state-level contractor trade license for general landscaping and groundskeeping (such as mowing, trimming, mulching, planting, and routine lawn care); regulation for general landscaping is conducted at the municipal/county level through local business tax receipts and occupational licenses. However, specific state-level credentials apply to specialized activities: a Commercial Pesticide Applicator / Pesticide Contractor License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) is required for applying pesticides or herbicides for hire, a Live Plant / Nursery Dealer License from the GDA is required for purchasing and reselling live plant materials, and a Low Voltage license or Certified Landscape Irrigation Contractor credential is required for installing landscape irrigation systems.", "license_source": "Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division & Georgia Department of Agriculture, 2024, https://sos.ga.gov/georgia-construction-industry-licensing-board and https://agr.georgia.gov/pesticides", "bonding_requirement": "Because Georgia does not mandate a state-level contractor license for general landscaping and groundskeeping services, there are no state-level surety bond or insurance minimums required to hold a general landscaping license. Liability insurance and bonding requirements are set at the local city/county level or specified by individual commercial project contracts.", "bonding_source": "Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, 2024, https://sos.ga.gov/georgia-construction-industry-licensing-board", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS May 2023 data, Georgia employs 21,660 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 4.55 workers per 1,000 jobs state-wide. IBISWorld estimates 20,044 landscaping service business establishments operating in Georgia.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ga.htm and IBISWorld, 2024, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.19 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Hawaii", "where": "HI", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 20.47, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 13.98, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Hawaii, published April 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_hi.htm and May 2023 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "State-level licensing is required in Hawaii for landscape contracting projects exceeding $1,000 in total value under Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 444. The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Contractors License Board regulates the trade under classification C-27 (Landscaping Contractor). Specific specialty sub-tiers include C-27a (Hydro mulching contractor) and C-27b (Tree trimming and removal contractor). Applicants must document four years of supervisory landscape experience within the past 10 years and pass both the Hawaii Business & Law exam and the C-27 trade exam.", "license_source": "Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Contractors License Board, 2024, https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor", "bonding_requirement": "The Contractors License Board requires a contractor surety bond of not less than $5,000 (determined on a case-by-case basis under HRS § 444-16.5). Licensees must also maintain general liability insurance with minimum limits of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence for bodily injury, $50,000 per occurrence for property damage, and statutory workers' compensation insurance if employing workers.", "bonding_source": "Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Contractors License Board Application Instructions / HRS Chapter 444, 2024, https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor", "market_size_or_density_note": "The Landscaping Services industry in Hawaii generates approximately $729.1 million in market revenue in 2026, comprising 2,326 active businesses and 6,450 industry employees statewide. According to BLS OEWS (May 2023), there are 6,870 individuals employed specifically as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers across Hawaii.", "market_source": "IBISWorld, 2026, Landscaping Services in Hawaii - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Statistics, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/ and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Hawaii, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_hi.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 20.47 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Idaho", "where": "ID", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.33, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 2.06, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_id.htm", "license_regime": "Idaho does not issue a state-level landscape contractor trade license for general residential or commercial landscaping. However, any contractor performing work where labor and materials exceed $2,000 must register with the Idaho Contractors Board under the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL); no trade exam is required. Applying pesticides commercially requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), and public works projects of $50,000 or more require registration with the Public Works Contractors Board.", "license_source": "Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL), 2025, https://dopl.idaho.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Idaho does not mandate a universal statewide license bond for general contractor registration. However, to hold DOPL contractor registration, contractors must carry a minimum of $300,000 single-limit general liability insurance (including products and completed operations coverage) and maintain workers' compensation insurance or file a valid statement of exemption.", "bonding_source": "Idaho Statutes Title 54 Chapter 52 (Idaho Contractor Registration Act) / Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL), 2025, https://dopl.idaho.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to IBISWorld, the Landscaping Services industry in Idaho generates approximately 0.9% of the state's GDP (ranking #31 in highest industry revenue in Idaho). In addition, BLS OEWS reports 7,300 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in Idaho.", "market_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in Idaho Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/ and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_id.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.33 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Illinois", "where": "IL", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 20.71, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 15.31, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 State Estimates for Illinois (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_il.htm) and May 2023 National Estimates (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm)", "license_regime": "Illinois does not require or issue a statewide contractor license for general landscaping or groundskeeping services (such as mowing, planting, or lawn maintenance) at the state level; licensing for general contractors and landscapers is regulated locally by individual municipalities and counties. However, a state license is required for applying general-use or restricted-use pesticides, which requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA).", "license_source": "Illinois Department of Agriculture, 2023", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond or liability insurance required for standard landscaping businesses in Illinois. However, commercial pesticide applicators licensed through the Illinois Department of Agriculture must provide proof of financial responsibility via a $50,000 surety bond (or two $25,000 bonds) or a certificate of liability insurance covering bodily injury and property damage pursuant to 415 ILCS 60/10.", "bonding_source": "Illinois General Assembly / Illinois Compiled Statutes (415 ILCS 60/10 Illinois Pesticide Act), 2023 (https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1597) and Illinois Department of Agriculture, 2023", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the BLS May 2023 OEWS report, Illinois employed 37,290 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a location quotient of 1.01 and 6.202 workers per 1,000 jobs. IBISWorld estimates 31,115 landscaping services industry locations operating across Illinois.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_il.htm) and IBISWorld Landscaping Services in Illinois Report, 2026 (https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/)", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 20.71 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Indiana", "where": "IN", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.53, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -2.39, "median_wage_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_in.htm", "license_regime": "Indiana does not require or issue a state-level trade license for landscaping or groundskeeping. General contractor and trade contractor licensing is delegated to local cities and counties (e.g., Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services requires contractor listing for hardscaping or land alteration). However, state-level certification and licensing as a Commercial Pesticide Applicator is required through the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) under Indiana Code IC 15-16-5 for applying commercial pesticides or lawn fertilizers.", "license_source": "Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) / Purdue University, 2024, https://oisc.purdue.edu/pesticide", "bonding_requirement": "For OISC pesticide business licensure under 355 IAC 4-3 and IC 15-16-5-58, businesses must maintain proof of financial responsibility with a minimum of $300,000 general liability combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage. Local jurisdictions may impose separate bonding and insurance requirements (e.g., Indianapolis DBNS requires a $10,000 bond and liability insurance for listed contractors).", "bonding_source": "Office of Indiana State Chemist, 2023", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS May 2023 estimates, Indiana employed 18,840 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 5.969 workers per 1,000 jobs. Additionally, IBISWorld reports 14,853 landscaping service locations operating in Indiana in 2026.", "market_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_in.htm / IBISWorld, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.53 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Iowa", "where": "IA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.98, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 0.11, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ia.htm", "license_regime": "Iowa does not issue a specific state trade license for landscape contractors. However, under Iowa Code Chapter 91C, any contractor performing $2,000 or more per year in construction work (including landscape installation such as hardscaping, grading, retaining walls, or irrigation) must maintain a contractor registration with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL). Registration is administrative and requires no examination. Additionally, commercial pesticide application requires a Commercial Applicator license from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) under Iowa Code Chapter 206.", "license_source": "Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), 2024, https://dial.iowa.gov", "bonding_requirement": "For general contractor registration under Iowa Code Chapter 91C, out-of-state (non-resident) contractors must post a $25,000 surety bond. In-state contractors do not have a state-level surety bond requirement for registration, but must provide proof of workers' compensation insurance (if employing workers) and compliance with unemployment insurance requirements.", "bonding_source": "Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) / Iowa Code Chapter 91C, 2024, https://dial.iowa.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS May 2023 report, Iowa employed approximately 7,200 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a location quotient of 0.76 (representing an employment density of 4.661 per 1,000 jobs).", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ia.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.98 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Kansas", "where": "KS", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.04, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 0.45, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) State Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ks.htm", "license_regime": "Kansas does not require a state-level license for general landscaping or groundskeeping work; contractor licensing and business registrations are regulated at the local city or county level (e.g., Wichita, Overland Park). However, a state-level Commercial Pesticide Business License and Commercial Certified Pesticide Applicator certification from the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) are required if applying pesticides or fertilizers commercially.", "license_source": "Kansas Department of Agriculture, Pesticide & Fertilizer Program, 2024", "bonding_requirement": "There are no state-level bonding or insurance minimums for general landscaping (local municipalities determine requirements). For KDA Pesticide Business Licensing under K.S.A. 2-2448 and K.A.R. 4-13-8, licensees must maintain proof of financial responsibility in the form of a surety bond of at least $6,000 per year or commercial liability insurance of at least $25,000 for bodily injury and $5,000 for property damage per occurrence.", "bonding_source": "Kansas Department of Agriculture / K.S.A. 2-2448 & K.A.R. 4-13-8, 2024", "market_size_or_density_note": "IBISWorld reports 6,030 Landscaping Services businesses in Kansas employing 14,027 people as of 2026. According to the BLS May 2023 OEWS data, Kansas employs 8,120 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011).", "market_source": "IBISWorld, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/ and BLS OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ks.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.04 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Kentucky", "where": "KY", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 16.82, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -6.35, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes_ky.htm", "license_regime": "No statewide general landscape contractor license is required in Kentucky. Landscaping licensing and contractor registrations are managed at the local city and county levels (e.g., Louisville, Lexington). State-level certification is required for commercial pesticide and fertilizer application through the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.", "license_source": "Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction / Kentucky Department of Agriculture, 2024, https://dhbc.ky.gov", "bonding_requirement": "No statewide surety bond or general liability insurance minimums exist for general landscape contractors in Kentucky. Insurance and bonding mandates are set by local municipal licensing boards.", "bonding_source": "Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, 2024, https://dhbc.ky.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Kentucky had an estimated 9,460 total workers employed as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in May 2023, representing a location quotient of 0.79 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes_ky.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 16.82 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Louisiana", "where": "LA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 14.43, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -19.65, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 (released April 2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_la.htm", "license_regime": "State-level license required. In Louisiana, performing landscaping work beyond basic grass mowing requires licensure through the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Horticulture Commission under La. R.S. 3:3801-3816. Individual state license tiers include Landscape Horticulturist, Landscape Irrigation Contractor, Arborist, and Landscape Architect. For commercial landscaping projects exceeding $50,000, contractors must also obtain a Commercial Contractor license from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).", "license_source": "Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Horticulture Commission, 2025, https://www.ldaf.la.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Landscape Irrigation Contractors licensed by the LDAF Horticulture Commission must maintain Certificate of Liability Insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 per person for bodily injury and $50,000 per occurrence for property damage. Commercial contractors licensed through the LSLBC must hold a minimum of $50,000 in Commercial General Liability insurance along with mandatory Workers' Compensation coverage.", "bonding_source": "Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) / Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC), 2025, https://www.lslbc.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Louisiana had 8,180 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in May 2023, representing an employment density of 4.416 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a location quotient of 0.72 relative to national average concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Louisiana, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_la.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 14.43 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Maine", "where": "ME", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 19.48, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 8.46, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Maine, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_me.htm", "license_regime": "Maine does not require a state-level contractor license for general landscaping and groundskeeping work; regulation is handled at the municipal level. However, commercial pesticide application requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license (Operator or Master tier) from the Maine Board of Pesticides Control.", "license_source": "Maine Board of Pesticides Control, Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, 2024, https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/pesticides", "bonding_requirement": "Maine does not mandate state-level surety bonds or liability insurance for general landscaping contractors. However, commercial pesticide applicators spraying for hire must carry proof of general liability insurance, and individual municipalities or public works projects may impose local bonding requirements.", "bonding_source": "Maine Board of Pesticides Control, Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, 2024, https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/pesticides", "market_size_or_density_note": "Maine employed 5,270 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers as of May 2023, representing a worker density of 8.473 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.38 (38% above national average concentration).", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Maine, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_me.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 19.48 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Maryland", "where": "MD", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.49, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 2.95, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_md.htm", "license_regime": "In Maryland, routine landscape maintenance (mowing, weeding, edging) does not require a state contractor license. However, state-level licensing is required for specific scope categories: residential hardscaping, landscape construction, retaining walls, or improvements valued over $500 require a Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) Contractor License from the Maryland Department of Labor; commercial pesticide application requires a Pesticide Business License and Certified Applicator certification from the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA); commercial fertilizer application on non-agricultural turf requires MDA Certified Professional Fertilizer Applicator credentials; and commercial tree pruning/removal requires a Licensed Tree Expert (LTE) license from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).", "license_source": "Maryland Department of Labor - Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC), 2024, https://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic", "bonding_requirement": "For an MHIC Contractor License, contractors must maintain minimum commercial general liability insurance of $500,000 (effective June 1, 2024, pursuant to Md. Code Bus. Reg. § 8-302.1). If an applicant does not meet MHIC personal financial solvency criteria ($30,000 net worth threshold), a $30,000 surety bond is required (or a $100,000 surety bond if omitting financial statements). For an MDA Pesticide Business License, minimum general liability insurance of $100,000 per person / $300,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $15,000 per occurrence / $30,000 aggregate for property damage is required.", "bonding_source": "Maryland Department of Labor - Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC), 2024, https://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maryland employs 17,470 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with a density of 6.524 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the state and a location quotient of 1.07.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_md.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.49 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Massachusetts", "where": "MA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 22.41, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 24.78, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ma.htm", "license_regime": "Massachusetts does not issue or require a general state-level trade license for basic landscaping, lawn maintenance, or mowing. However, contractors performing residential home improvement or hardscaping work exceeding $500 must register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) under M.G.L. c. 142A. Additionally, applying pesticides for hire requires a Commercial Applicator License or Commercial Certification from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Pesticide Program under 333 CMR 10.00.", "license_source": "Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) & Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), 2024, https://www.mass.gov/orgs/office-of-consumer-affairs-and-business-regulation", "bonding_requirement": "Massachusetts does not require a standalone individual contractor surety bond for general landscaping or HIC registration. Registered residential contractors participate in the state-managed Home Improvement Contractor Guaranty Fund via mandatory contributions ($100 to $500 based on company size). Workers' compensation insurance is required for any business with employees under M.G.L. c. 152.", "bonding_source": "Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 142A / Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR), 2024", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS May 2023 data, Massachusetts had an estimated employment of 21,460 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an employment density of 5.889 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a location quotient of 0.96.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ma.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 22.41 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Michigan", "where": "MI", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.61, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -1.95, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mi.htm", "license_regime": "Michigan does not issue or require a state-level landscape contractor trade license for general landscaping, grounds maintenance, lawn care, or hardscaping. However, applying pesticides or herbicides for compensation requires an individual Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification and a Pesticide Application Business License (PABL) from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Local municipal registrations or licenses may also be required by individual cities.", "license_source": "Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) & Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), 2026", "bonding_requirement": "There is no state surety bond or general insurance minimum for general landscaping contractors. For MDARD-licensed Pesticide Application Businesses, proof of commercial general liability insurance is required, with minimum coverage limits of $100,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $25,000 to $100,000 per occurrence for property damage ($300,000 aggregate limit).", "bonding_source": "Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Pesticide Application Business License Guidelines, 2026", "market_size_or_density_note": "Michigan had an estimated 30,100 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed statewide, representing an occupational density of 6.922 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.13.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mi.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.61 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Minnesota", "where": "MN", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 20.98, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 16.82, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Minnesota (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mn.htm)", "license_regime": "Minnesota does not require a single overarching state-level landscape contractor license for basic softscaping or routine grounds maintenance (mowing, trimming, planting). However, specific service-level licenses apply: a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is required for applying pesticides or fertilizers; a Nursery Stock Dealer Certificate from MDA is required for selling live plant stock; and a Residential Building Contractor or Remodeler License from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) is required if undertaking hardscape or structural exterior construction (e.g., retaining walls, decks) exceeding $15,000 in gross annual receipts and involving multiple trades. General contractors and subcontractors not required to hold a specific trade license must register under the DLI Construction Contractor Registration program.", "license_source": "Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, 2024 and Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 2024 (https://www.mda.state.mn.us/pesticide-fertilizer/pesticide-applicator-licensing)", "bonding_requirement": "For state-licensed DLI Residential Building Contractors and Remodelers, state law requires a continuous $15,000 surety bond (Minn. Stat. § 326B.822 / § 326B.46) and general liability insurance of at least $100,000 per occurrence (Minn. Stat. § 326B.86 / Minn. R. 2800.9900). Basic softscape-only landscaping contractors operating without a DLI contractor license are not subject to a statewide statutory contractor bond minimum.", "bonding_source": "Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, 2024 (https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/get-licenses-and-permits/surety-bonds)", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS May 2023 data, Minnesota employs 16,880 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a location quotient of 0.96 relative to the nation. BLS Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) 2024 data reports 2,308 private landscaping services establishments (NAICS 561730) in Minnesota employing 13,607 workers.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State OEWS / 2024 QCEW (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mn.htm)", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 20.98 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Mississippi", "where": "MS", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 14.29, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -20.43, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ms.htm", "license_regime": "State-level contractor licensing is administered by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). A commercial contractor license (with a specialty landscaping classification) is required at the state level for commercial landscaping projects exceeding $50,000. Routine lawn maintenance and residential landscaping under monetary thresholds do not require a state-level license, though local municipal or county business permits may apply.", "license_source": "Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC), 2024, https://www.msboc.us", "bonding_requirement": "MSBOC does not impose a mandatory statewide surety bond to hold a general contractor license, though surety bonds may be required on public works or by local municipalities. Commercial license holders are required to maintain general liability insurance with minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate, and workers' compensation insurance if employing 5 or more workers.", "bonding_source": "Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC), 2024, https://www.msboc.us", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to IBISWorld (2026), the Landscaping Services industry in Mississippi generates $740.6 million in revenue across 3,676 businesses and 6,928 industry employees. According to the BLS OEWS (May 2023), Mississippi employs 5,360 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a location quotient of 0.76 (4.658 workers per 1,000 jobs).", "market_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in Mississippi Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/ and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OEWS May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ms.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 14.29 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Missouri", "where": "MO", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.57, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -2.17, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (Missouri) & National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "Missouri does not require or issue a general state-level contractor license for landscaping and groundskeeping workers (SOC 37-3011). Contractor licensing, permits, and trade registration are decentralized and regulated at the city and county level (e.g., St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Columbia). State-level credentials exist only for specific specialized activities, such as Commercial Pesticide Applicator licensing via the Missouri Department of Agriculture and Professional Landscape Architect licensure via the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, and Professional Landscape Architects (APEPLSPLA).", "license_source": "Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, and Professional Landscape Architects (APEPLSPLA), 2026, https://pr.mo.gov/apelsla.asp", "bonding_requirement": "There are no state-mandated surety bond or liability insurance minimums for general landscaping contractors in Missouri; bonding and insurance minimums are set locally by individual municipalities or project owners. However, under Missouri Revised Statutes RSMo § 287.030, construction industry employers with 1 or more employees are required to carry workers' compensation insurance.", "bonding_source": "Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations / Missouri Revised Statutes RSMo § 287.030, 2026", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS data, Missouri had 16,860 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in May 2023, representing a location quotient of 0.96 (5.862 workers per 1,000 jobs). IBISWorld data for Missouri's Landscaping Services industry reports 23,819 total workers across 13,348 establishments.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (Missouri), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm & IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in Missouri Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/landscaping-services-industry", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.57 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Montana", "where": "MT", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.47, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 2.84, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mt.htm", "license_regime": "Montana does not require a state-level trade license for routine landscaping or groundskeeping work. Construction businesses with employees must register under Construction Contractor Registration with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), while independent contractors without employees may obtain an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC). State-level licensing applies to specific activities like chemical pesticide application (Commercial Pesticide Applicator License via the Montana Department of Agriculture) or landscape architecture. Local business licenses or building/irrigation permits may be required at the city or county level.", "license_source": "Montana Department of Labor and Industry, 2024, https://dli.mt.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Montana does not mandate a statewide surety bond or general liability insurance to hold a state contractor registration. However, employers with one or more employees must carry Montana-specific workers' compensation insurance or hold a valid ICEC exemption. Local municipalities (such as the City of Missoula) or public/private contracts may impose local liability insurance minimums (e.g., $300,000 general liability) and local project performance/surety bonds.", "bonding_source": "Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Construction Contractor Registration Unit, 2024, https://dli.mt.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Montana employs 3,550 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an occupational density of 7.066 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a Location Quotient (LQ) of 1.15 relative to national employment concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mt.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.47 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Nebraska", "where": "NE", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.87, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -0.5, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Nebraska, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ne.htm", "license_regime": "Nebraska does not require a specific state-level landscape contractor trade license. However, contractors performing construction/maintenance work earning $2,000 or more annually must register with the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) under the Nebraska Contractor Registration Act. Commercial applicators applying pesticides require certification through the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). Trade licensing for landscaping contractors is otherwise regulated at the local municipal or county level (e.g., Omaha and Lincoln).", "license_source": "Nebraska Department of Labor, Contractor Registration Act (2024)", "bonding_requirement": "In-state contractors registering with the Nebraska Department of Labor are not required to post a surety bond, but must provide proof of Workers' Compensation insurance if they have employees. Out-of-state contractors registering with NDOL must post a $25,000 surety bond. Additional bonding or general liability requirements may apply at the municipal level.", "bonding_source": "Nebraska Department of Labor, Contractor Registration Act (2024)", "market_size_or_density_note": "Nebraska employed 6,040 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), corresponding to a concentration of 6.039 jobs per 1,000 total state employment and a location quotient of 0.99.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Nebraska, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ne.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.87 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Nevada", "where": "NV", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.54, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -2.34, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OEWS May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Nevada (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nv.htm) and National OEWS Estimates for SOC 37-3011 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm), 2024", "license_regime": "A state-level contractor license is required in Nevada to perform landscape contracting work. Licensing is administered by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) under Specialty License Classification C-10 (Landscape Contracting), which includes subclassifications such as C-10A (Landscaping) and C-10B (Landscaping Maintenance). Licenses are assigned monetary limits based on financial standing and project scope.", "license_source": "Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB), Contractor Classifications and Licensing Guidelines, 2024, https://www.nvcontractorsboard.com", "bonding_requirement": "All active licensed contractors in Nevada must maintain a license bond (surety bond or cash deposit) set by the Board ranging from $1,000 to $500,000 depending on license classification, monetary limit, and financial responsibility. Contractors with employees must also maintain Workers' Compensation insurance coverage or submit an affidavit of exemption.", "bonding_source": "Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB), Bond Requirements, 2024", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nevada had 9,250 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in May 2023, representing an occupational density of 6.243 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs (location quotient of 1.02 relative to national concentration).", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Nevada, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nv.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.54 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "New Hampshire", "where": "NH", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 19.8, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 10.24, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - New Hampshire, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nh.htm", "license_regime": "New Hampshire does not require a general state-level contractor license for landscaping or groundskeeping work. Regulation is primarily at the local municipal level for business registration. However, specific state licenses apply for specialized activities: a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food is required to apply pesticides, and a Plant Dealer/Landscaper License ($25 annual fee) is required for businesses buying, selling, or holding rooted nursery stock with gross sales of $3,000 or more.", "license_source": "New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, 2025, https://www.agriculture.nh.gov", "bonding_requirement": "There are no statewide surety bond or general liability insurance minimums mandated for general landscaping contractors. Commercial pesticide applicators must show proof of general liability insurance. Workers' compensation insurance is required by New Hampshire state law for any employer with one or more employees.", "bonding_source": "New Hampshire Department of Labor, 2025", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, New Hampshire employed 5,830 landscaping and groundskeeping workers (SOC 37-3011), representing 8.635 jobs per 1,000 state jobs and a location quotient of 1.41, indicating an occupational concentration 41% higher than the U.S. national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - New Hampshire, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nh.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 19.8 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "New Jersey", "where": "NJ", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 20.09, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 11.86, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - New Jersey (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nj.htm", "license_regime": "In New Jersey, basic lawn maintenance (mowing and trimming) does not require a state contractor license. However, under the Contractors' Registration Act (N.J.S.A. 56:8-136 et seq.), landscape contractors engaged in work beyond basic mowing (such as planting trees or shrubs, laying sod, or installing hardscapes) on residential properties must register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). Additionally, commercial pesticide application requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator or Business License from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).", "license_source": "New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Home Improvement Contractor Registration (2024), https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/hic", "bonding_requirement": "Under N.J.A.C. § 13:45A-17.12, registered Home Improvement Contractors are not required to post a state surety bond, but must carry commercial general liability insurance with a minimum threshold of $500,000 per occurrence.", "bonding_source": "New Jersey Administrative Code N.J.A.C. § 13:45A-17.12 (2024), https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/hic", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, New Jersey employs 29,270 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing 6.97 jobs per 1,000 statewide jobs and a location quotient of 1.14 compared to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - New Jersey (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nj.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 20.09 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "New Mexico", "where": "NM", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 16.73, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -6.85, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nm.htm", "license_regime": "State-level contractor licensing is required in New Mexico for landscape construction, hardscaping, grading, and irrigation installation valued at $7,200 or more (labor and materials) through the Construction Industries Division (CID) of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD). Primary specialty license classifications include GS-3 (Landscaping) and MS-6 (Lawn Sprinklers). Purely routine grounds maintenance services such as mowing, weeding, and pruning are exempt from CID contractor licensing.", "license_source": "New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division, 2024, https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction", "bonding_requirement": "Requires a $10,000 contractor license surety bond under NMSA 1978 § 60-13-30, along with proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.", "bonding_source": "New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA 1978 § 60-13-30) / New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division, 2024, https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction", "market_size_or_density_note": "New Mexico had 4,590 individuals employed as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nm.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 16.73 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "New York", "where": "NY", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.99, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 5.73, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ny.htm", "license_regime": "New York State does not require a statewide general landscaping contractor license; home improvement and contractor licensing are regulated at the county or city level (e.g., New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties require local Home Improvement Contractor licenses for landscape construction/hardscaping). At the state level, commercial pesticide application requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator or Technician license from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).", "license_source": "New York State Department of State Division of Licensing Services / New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 2026, https://dos.ny.gov", "bonding_requirement": "New York State has no statewide surety bond or general liability insurance requirement for general landscaping contractors because licensing is handled locally. Commercial pesticide application businesses registered with the NYS DEC must carry minimum bodily injury liability insurance of $300,000 per person / $1,000,000 per incident and $300,000 in property damage insurance, or a surety bond of comparable value (6 NYCRR § 325.23).", "bonding_source": "New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (6 NYCRR § 325.23), 2026, https://dec.ny.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS estimates, New York employed 49,160 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ny.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.99 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "North Carolina", "where": "NC", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.15, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -4.51, "median_wage_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nc.htm", "license_regime": "State-level license required. Under North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 89D, landscape contracting requires licensure by the North Carolina Landscape Contractors' Licensing Board (NCLCLB). License tiers include Individual Landscape Contractor License and Corporate Landscape Contractor License.", "license_source": "North Carolina Landscape Contractors' Licensing Board, 2024, https://www.nclclb.com", "bonding_requirement": "A $10,000 surety bond (NCLCLB Form SB01) or a $10,000 irrevocable letter of credit / cash deposit is required. The state board does not mandate state-level general liability insurance minimums for licensure.", "bonding_source": "North Carolina Landscape Contractors' Licensing Board, 2024, https://www.nclclb.com", "market_size_or_density_note": "North Carolina employs an estimated 32,210 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011).", "market_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nc.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.15 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "North Dakota", "where": "ND", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.98, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 5.68, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes_nd.htm", "license_regime": "A state-level contractor license issued by the North Dakota Secretary of State under NDCC Chapter 43-07 is required for any landscaping or construction contract exceeding $4,000. Licenses are classified into four tiers based on maximum project value: Class A (unlimited), Class B (up to $500,000), Class C (up to $300,000), and Class D (up to $100,000).", "license_source": "North Dakota Secretary of State, 2024, https://sos.nd.gov", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond requirement for standard landscaping/general contractors licensed through the Secretary of State; however, contractors must provide proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage through Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI). Certain municipalities (e.g., Grand Forks $5,000 bond) require local contractor license bonds.", "bonding_source": "North Dakota Secretary of State / NDCC Chapter 43-07, 2024, https://sos.nd.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, there were 2,200 workers employed in Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) across the state of North Dakota.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes_nd.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.98 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Ohio", "where": "OH", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.36, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -3.34, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_oh.htm", "license_regime": "The state of Ohio does not require a statewide general contractor or trade license for standard landscaping and grounds maintenance services. The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) regulates only five specialty trades (electrical, HVAC, plumbing, hydronics, refrigeration), leaving general contracting and landscaping oversight to municipal and county governments. However, applying pesticides or fertilizers commercially requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA).", "license_source": "Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) / Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), 2024, https://com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/industrial-compliance/boards/ohio-construction-industry-licensing-board", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond or general liability insurance minimum required for general landscaping contractors in Ohio. Employers with one or more employees are required by state law to maintain Workers' Compensation insurance through the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC). Commercial pesticide applicators must show proof of liability insurance to the ODA, and individual municipalities (such as Cleveland or Columbus) may impose local contractor registration bonds ($10,000 to $25,000) and liability requirements.", "bonding_source": "Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) / Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB), 2024, https://www.bwc.ohio.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Ohio employs 34,160 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an employment density of 6.245 per 1,000 jobs and a Location Quotient (LQ) of 1.02.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_oh.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.36 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Oklahoma", "where": "OK", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 16.43, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -8.52, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ok.htm", "license_regime": "Oklahoma does not require a statewide contractor license for general landscaping or groundskeeping work through the Construction Industries Board (CIB). However, state licensing is required if applying pesticides commercially via a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License issued by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF). General contractor registrations or local business licenses are enforced at the city/county level (e.g., Oklahoma City).", "license_source": "Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF), 2026, https://ag.ok.gov", "bonding_requirement": "No state surety bond or general liability insurance is required for general landscaping. For ODAFF Commercial Pesticide Applicators, proof of financial responsibility requires minimum liability insurance of $50,000 bodily injury per person, $100,000 bodily injury per occurrence, and $50,000 property damage. Local jurisdictions (e.g., Oklahoma City) require $50,000 in commercial general liability insurance per occurrence and workers' compensation coverage.", "bonding_source": "Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF), 2026, https://ag.ok.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "The Landscaping Services industry in Oklahoma employs 13,446 workers in 2026, accounts for 0.8% of the state's GDP, and ranks #33 in revenue among Oklahoma industries, growing at an annualized rate of 4.8% from 2021 to 2026.", "market_source": "IBISWorld, Landscaping Services in Oklahoma Industry Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 16.43 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Oregon", "where": "OR", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 19.82, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 10.36, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_or.htm", "license_regime": "In Oregon, state-level licensing is required for landscape contracting work under ORS 671.510 et seq., administered by the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board (LCB). Oregon enforces a dual-licensing regime: the business entity must hold a Landscape Contracting Business License and must employ or be owned by a licensed Landscape Construction Professional (LCP). Business license tiers include Standard License (planning/installing lawns, plants, hardscapes, decks, arbors, retaining walls, fences), Irrigation Only Plus Backflow License, All Phases Plus Backflow License, and Probationary License.", "license_source": "Oregon Landscape Contractors Board (LCB), 2026, https://www.oregon.gov/lcb/Pages/index.aspx", "bonding_requirement": "Effective January 1, 2026 (via SB 864), landscape contracting businesses are required to hold a $20,000 surety bond ($15,000 bond for probationary license holders). Additionally, businesses must maintain a minimum of $500,000 in Commercial General Liability insurance listing LCB as the certificate holder, plus Workers' Compensation insurance if employing workers.", "bonding_source": "Oregon Landscape Contractors Board (LCB), 2026", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS May 2023 OEWS data, Oregon employed 11,160 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 5.742 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs. Oregon Employment Department QCEW data reported 12,519 covered employment workers in NAICS 561730 (Landscaping Services) in 2023.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_or.htm; Oregon Employment Department QCEW, 2023, https://www.oregon.gov", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 19.82 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Pennsylvania", "where": "PA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.5, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -2.56, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_pa.htm", "license_regime": "Pennsylvania does not require a statewide trade license for standard landscaping or grounds maintenance. However, landscapers performing residential home improvement work (such as hardscaping, retaining walls, patios, or drainage) exceeding $5,000 annually must register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA). Commercial pesticide applicators must be certified by the PA Department of Agriculture, and individual municipalities (such as Philadelphia) may require local trade licenses.", "license_source": "Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, 2024", "bonding_requirement": "Pennsylvania does not mandate a statewide surety bond for standard landscaping or HICPA contractor registration. However, HICPA registration requires proof of minimum general liability insurance coverage of $50,000 for personal injury and $50,000 for property damage.", "bonding_source": "Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, 2024", "market_size_or_density_note": "Pennsylvania employed 37,010 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with a worker density of 6.222 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.02 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_pa.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.5 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Rhode Island", "where": "RI", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 21.62, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 20.38, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ri.htm", "license_regime": "General lawn maintenance and basic grounds upkeep do not require a statewide contractor license. However, state-level registration with the Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB) is required if landscaping work includes construction, hardscaping, retaining walls, or residential home improvements valued at $500 or more. First-time applicants must complete a 5-hour pre-registration course. Commercial application of pesticides requires a separate Commercial Pesticide Applicator license from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM).", "license_source": "Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB), 2026", "bonding_requirement": "RICRLB contractor registration requires maintaining general liability insurance with a minimum limit of $500,000 and carrying workers' compensation insurance if employing staff. A statewide surety bond is not required for standard contractor registration, though local municipalities may require bonds for specific municipal right-of-way work.", "bonding_source": "Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB), 2026", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to IBISWorld, Rhode Island's Landscaping Services industry market size is $992.4 million in 2026, with 4,828 businesses and 5,378 industry employees. BLS OEWS May 2023 reports 4,480 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in Rhode Island, representing a high employment density of 9.178 per 1,000 jobs (Location Quotient: 1.50).", "market_source": "IBISWorld Landscaping Services in Rhode Island Report, 2026, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 21.62 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "South Carolina", "where": "SC", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 16.89, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -5.96, "median_wage_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - South Carolina, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_sc.htm", "license_regime": "South Carolina does not require a statewide license for general landscaping and lawn maintenance work (e.g., mowing, trimming, mulching). However, landscape construction (e.g., retaining walls, major grading, irrigation) and residential specialty work require licensing through the SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) via either the SC Contractor's Licensing Board for commercial work or the SC Residential Builders Commission for residential specialty contracting. Applying pesticides commercially requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license from the Clemson University Department of Pesticide Regulation. Local business licenses are mandated at the county or municipal level under the SC Home Rule Act.", "license_source": "South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) Contractor's Licensing Board, 2024, https://llr.sc.gov/clb", "bonding_requirement": "Standard lawn care and landscaping maintenance require no state-level bond. For contractors holding a credential through the SC Residential Builders Commission, a $5,000 surety bond is required for Registered Specialty Contractors and a $10,000 surety bond for Licensed Residential Specialty Contractors. Commercial general contractors under the SC Contractor's Licensing Board must provide surety bonds ranging from $20,000 (Group 1) to $500,000 (Group 5) if selecting the bond option in place of a net-worth financial statement.", "bonding_source": "South Carolina Residential Builders Commission, 2024, https://llr.sc.gov/res", "market_size_or_density_note": "South Carolina employed 15,990 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing an employment density of 7.191 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.17 relative to national concentration.", "market_source": "BLS OEWS, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - South Carolina, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_sc.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 16.89 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "South Dakota", "where": "SD", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 14.82, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -17.48, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_sd.htm", "license_regime": "South Dakota does not issue a state-level trade license for general landscaping or groundskeeping work. However, any business engaging in construction services or contracting must hold a Contractor's Excise Tax License from the South Dakota Department of Revenue under SDCL § 10-46A. Additionally, applying pesticides commercially requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification from the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources under SDCL § 38-21. Local municipal registrations or trade licenses may apply in cities such as Sioux Falls and Rapid City.", "license_source": "South Dakota Department of Revenue, 2025, https://dor.sd.gov/businesses/taxes/contractors-excise-tax", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond or mandatory liability insurance requirement to hold a South Dakota Contractor's Excise Tax License or commercial pesticide applicator certification. Bonding and insurance requirements may be imposed by local municipalities or specific commercial project contracts.", "bonding_source": "South Dakota Department of Revenue, 2025, https://dor.sd.gov/businesses/taxes/contractors-excise-tax", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, South Dakota had 2,640 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an employment density of 5.94 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.97 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_sd.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 14.82 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Tennessee", "where": "TN", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.36, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -3.34, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 State and National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tn.htm and https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "A state contractor license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors (Department of Commerce and Insurance) is required for landscaping projects valued at $25,000 or more (materials and labor) under classification CMC-D (Landscaping) or specialty HRA-E.2 pursuant to T.C.A. § 62-6. Below $25,000, no state contractor license is required (local city/county business licenses apply), except in 9 designated counties (Bradley, Davidson, Hamilton, Haywood, Knox, Marion, Robertson, Rutherford, and Shelby) where a state Home Improvement Contractor License is required for residential work between $3,000 and $24,999. Commercial pesticide and herbicide application requires a separate Charter from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.", "license_source": "Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, Department of Commerce and Insurance (2024)", "bonding_requirement": "There is no general statewide surety bond requirement to obtain a standard contractor license, though a bond may be submitted to meet working capital/net worth requirements. License holders must maintain General Liability Insurance based on their monetary limit ($100,000 minimum limit for monetary limits up to $500,000; $500,000 limit for monetary limits between $500,001 and $1,500,000; $1,000,000 limit for monetary limits over $1,500,000) and Workers' Compensation insurance (required for construction/contractor firms with 1 or more employees). A $10,000 surety bond is required for a Home Improvement Contractor License in covered counties under T.C.A. § 62-6-503.", "bonding_source": "Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, Department of Commerce and Insurance (2024)", "market_size_or_density_note": "Tennessee employs 15,350 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an occupational density of 4.768 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.78 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Tennessee (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tn.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.36 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Texas", "where": "TX", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.11, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -4.73, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023 (released April 2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tx.htm", "license_regime": "Texas does not require a state-level contractor license for general landscaping and groundskeeping services. Landscaping contractors can operate without a state trade license. However, specific sub-activities require state licensure: commercial pesticide application requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), and installing or servicing landscape irrigation systems requires a Licensed Irrigator license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Local municipalities may also require business registration or local permits.", "license_source": "Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), 2025, https://www.texasagriculture.gov and https://www.tceq.texas.gov", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond or general liability insurance requirement for general landscaping contractors because Texas does not issue a state landscape contractor license. TCEQ does not mandate insurance or bonding for licensed irrigators at the state level (though municipal rules may apply). However, commercial pesticide applicator businesses registered with TDA must maintain general liability insurance (minimum $200,000 per occurrence / $300,000 aggregate under TDA, or $500,000 / $1,000,000 aggregate under SPCS rules).", "bonding_source": "Texas Administrative Code (4 TAC §7.123) and Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) SPCS, 2025, https://www.texasagriculture.gov", "market_size_or_density_note": "Texas employs 68,500 landscaping and groundskeeping workers (SOC 37-3011), ranking 3rd highest among U.S. states according to BLS OEWS. According to the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) report citing Texas Comptroller data, total horticultural services sales in Texas reached $9.2 billion in 2023.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS (May 2023) and Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) / Texas Comptroller (2023), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tx.htm and https://www.tnlaonline.org", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.11 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Utah", "where": "UT", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.48, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 2.9, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Utah, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ut.htm", "license_regime": "State-level licensing is required in Utah for landscape construction, sprinkler/irrigation system installation, grading, and hardscaping through the S330 Specialty Landscaping Contractor license issued by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). Basic lawn maintenance and yard care (such as mowing and trimming) do not require a state contractor license, though pesticide application requires separate certification from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). Projects under $7,000 qualify for a small-project exemption, though registration with DOPL is required.", "license_source": "Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), 2024, https://dopl.utah.gov", "bonding_requirement": "Utah DOPL requires S330 specialty contractors to maintain general liability insurance with minimum limits of $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 aggregate, with DOPL named as the certificate holder (Utah Admin. Rule R156-55a-302d). Licensees must also maintain a contractor surety bond, which is $15,000 for specialty contractor classifications (or up to $50,000 for general contractor classifications / bond pool qualification).", "bonding_source": "Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), Utah Administrative Code R156-55a, 2024, https://adminrules.utah.gov/public/rule/R156-55a/Current%20Rules", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, Utah had 11,220 total workers employed as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with a location quotient of 1.09 relative to national employment concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Utah, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ut.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.48 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Vermont", "where": "VT", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 21.43, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 19.32, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) State OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_vt.htm (Vermont median $21.43 vs. US national median $17.96 from BLS OEWS May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm)", "license_regime": "Vermont does not issue a state-level landscape contractor license for general landscaping and groundskeeping. However, contractors performing residential projects valued at $10,000 or more (labor and materials combined) must register with the Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation (OPR). Commercial applicators applying pesticides or herbicides as part of landscaping services must obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM). Municipalities may also require local business licenses or permits.", "license_source": "Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), 2023, https://sos.vermont.gov/residential-contractors/ and Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM), 2024", "bonding_requirement": "No state surety bond is required by the state for general landscape contractors or OPR residential registration. However, contractors registered under the OPR Residential Contractor Registration program must maintain general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate.", "bonding_source": "Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), 2023, https://sos.vermont.gov/residential-contractors", "market_size_or_density_note": "Vermont employs approximately 2,710 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an occupational density of 9.01 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the state and a Location Quotient (LQ) of 1.47 compared to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) State OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_vt.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 21.43 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Virginia", "where": "VA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.79, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -0.95, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Virginia (published April 2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_va.htm and May 2023 National Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "In Virginia, contractor licensing is regulated at the state level by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Board for Contractors under Virginia Code § 54.1-1100 et seq. Landscaping contractors performing projects of $1,000 or more (including hardscaping, grading, or irrigation) or operating under the Landscape Service Contractor (LSC) specialty must hold a state contractor license. Licensing is structured into three tiers: Class C (projects over $1,000 up to $10,000; annual volume up to $150,000), Class B (single projects $10,000 to $120,000; annual volume up to $750,000), and Class A (single projects $120,000+; unlimited annual volume). Commercial pesticide application requires separate certification from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).", "license_source": "Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Board for Contractors, 2025, https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Contractors", "bonding_requirement": "Under Virginia Code §§ 54.1-1106 and 54.1-1108 and DPOR Board for Contractors rules, Class A and Class B contractor license applicants who do not meet state net-worth minimums ($45,000 for Class A; $15,000 for Class B) must purchase and file a $50,000 contractor license surety bond with DPOR. Class C licensees have no state net worth or bonding requirement. Workers' compensation insurance is mandated by state law for employers regularly employing three or more workers.", "bonding_source": "Virginia Code § 54.1-1106 / DPOR Board for Contractors, 2025, https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title54.1/chapter11/section54.1-1106", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 OEWS data, Virginia employed 24,660 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an employment density of 6.194 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.01 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Virginia, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_va.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.79 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Washington", "where": "WA", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 22.01, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 22.55, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Washington, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wa.htm and May 2023 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "State-level registration is required in Washington through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Landscaping contractors must register as either a Specialty Contractor (restricted to the Landscaping specialty and unable to subcontract outside of it) or a General Contractor (able to perform or subcontract multiple trades).", "license_source": "Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), 2024, https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/register-as-a-contractor", "bonding_requirement": "Requires a continuous contractor surety bond of $15,000 for specialty contractors or $30,000 for general contractors (effective July 1, 2024). In addition, contractors must maintain general liability insurance of $200,000 public liability and $50,000 property damage, or a $250,000 combined single limit policy.", "bonding_source": "Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) / Revised Code of Washington (RCW 18.27.040), 2024, https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/register-as-a-contractor", "market_size_or_density_note": "According to BLS OEWS data, Washington had 21,890 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an employment density of 6.262 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a location quotient of 1.02 relative to national concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wa.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 22.01 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "West Virginia", "where": "WV", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 13.95, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -22.33, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wv.htm and https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "license_regime": "Routine lawn care, mowing, planting, and grounds maintenance do not require a state contractor license in West Virginia. However, under W. Va. Code § 21-11, landscaping projects involving structural hardscaping, grading, drainage, or construction exceeding $2,500 for residential work or $5,000 for commercial work require a Specialty Contractor License from the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WV Division of Labor). Commercial pesticide application requires a separate Commercial Pesticide Applicator license from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Local municipalities may mandate municipal business licenses.", "license_source": "West Virginia Division of Labor Contractor Licensing Board, 2024", "bonding_requirement": "Licensed contractors in West Virginia must complete a mandatory Wage Bond Affidavit; out-of-state contractors and select new applicants are required to post a Wage Bond equal to 115% of their highest monthly payroll with the West Virginia Division of Labor. Municipal licensing authorities may require local contractor surety bonds ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Workers' compensation insurance is required for businesses with employees.", "bonding_source": "West Virginia Division of Labor Contractor Licensing Board, 2024", "market_size_or_density_note": "In West Virginia, there were 4,090 workers employed as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a employment density of 5.94 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.97 relative to national concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wv.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 13.95 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "citation-text-only", "bonding_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Wisconsin", "where": "WI", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 18.21, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": 1.39, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Wisconsin, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wi.htm", "license_regime": "Wisconsin does not require a statewide trade license for general landscape contracting, lawn maintenance, planting, hardscaping, or irrigation. Local cities or counties may require general business registrations. However, any business or individual applying pesticides or herbicides commercially must obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Separate professional licensure exists for Landscape Architects under the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).", "license_source": "Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), 2024, https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Licenses_Permits/CommercialApplicator.aspx", "bonding_requirement": "There is no statewide surety bond requirement for general landscaping contractors. However, commercial pesticide application businesses licensed by DATCP must carry general liability insurance. In addition, contractors performing residential structural work on 1- or 2-family homes who hold a DSPS Dwelling Contractor credential must maintain general liability insurance or post a surety bond ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 under Wis. Stat. § 101.654.", "bonding_source": "Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), 2024, https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/DwellingContractor/Default.aspx", "market_size_or_density_note": "As of May 2023, Wisconsin employed 16,550 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), corresponding to an employment density of 5.734 jobs per 1,000 total state jobs and a location quotient of 0.94 relative to the national average.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Wisconsin, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wi.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 18.21 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Wyoming", "where": "WY", "median_hourly_wage_usd": 17.77, "wage_differential_vs_national_pct": -1.06, "median_wage_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wy.htm", "license_regime": "Wyoming does not mandate or issue a state-level contractor license for Landscaping & Groundskeeping (SOC 37-3011). Trade contractor licensing is decentralized and regulated at the city or county municipal level (e.g., Cheyenne, Casper, Gillette), with electrical contracting being the only trade licensed at the state level.", "license_source": "Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, 2025 Directory of Licensed Occupations in Wyoming, https://doe.state.wy.us/LMI/licensed_occupations.htm", "bonding_requirement": "No state-level surety bond or insurance minimums exist for landscaping contractors in Wyoming because there is no state-level licensing regime for this trade. Bonding and liability insurance minimums are established by individual municipalities or specific project contracts.", "bonding_source": "Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, 2025 Directory of Licensed Occupations in Wyoming, https://doe.state.wy.us/LMI/licensed_occupations.htm", "market_size_or_density_note": "Wyoming had 1,580 employed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an employment density of 5.756 jobs per 1,000 state jobs and a location quotient of 0.94 relative to national concentration.", "market_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wy.htm", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_basis": "Computed as (state median hourly wage 17.77 minus the national median 17.96) / 17.96. The national figure is the one published on this trade's page.", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_wage_source_access": "url", "license_source_access": "url", "bonding_source_access": "url", "market_source_access": "url", "wage_differential_vs_national_pct_source_access": "url" } ], "msas": [ { "name": "Atlanta", "where": "GA", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, there were 13,010 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA MSA, representing an employment density of 4.618 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.75.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_12060.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 3422, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-atlanta-ga.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Metro Atlanta residential construction permits experienced a rebound in 2024 with 22,943 new residential building permits authorized, a 12% year-over-year increase, reversing a downward trend that followed a regional permitting peak in 2022.", "permit_source": "HBW Building Activity Trend Reports / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025", "market_context_note": "The Atlanta metropolitan region added over 350,000 residents between 2020 and 2025, driving ongoing expansion in new housing developments and residential upgrades that support steady demand for grounds maintenance, hardscaping, and landscaping services.", "market_context_source": "Atlanta Regional Commission, 2026, https://atlantaregional.com/33-degrees-north/metro-atlanta-building-permits-update", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Austin", "where": "TX", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Austin-Round Rock, TX metropolitan statistical area employed over 1,420 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in May 2021, representing a primary trade workforce segment within Texas's statewide total of nearly 65,000 landscaping workers.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes12420.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 1530, "job_value_source": "LawnStarter, 2026", "permit_volume_trend": "In early 2026, residential building permit issuance in the Austin metro area declined 19.7% year-over-year through Q1 2026 (5,213 total residential permits), with March 2026 total permits down 29.5% YoY (1,831 permits). The slowdown was concentrated in multifamily construction (5+ unit permits down nearly 50% to 70%), while single-family permits declined moderately by 4.1% in Q1 2026. This contraction follows a high-volume 2024 when over 32,000 total new residential units were authorized in greater Austin.", "permit_source": "Official Austin Metro Permit Records / Team Price Real Estate, 2026", "market_context_note": "The Texas green industry generated $30.3 billion in total gross sales statewide in 2021, with the landscaping sector contributing $9.98 billion (a 36.7% increase year-over-year). The Austin-Round Rock MSA is one of the top metropolitan statistical areas in Texas for green industry revenues, driven by ongoing residential expansion, commercial property care, and outdoor living upgrades.", "market_context_source": "Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) / Texas A&M AgriLife Research, 2022", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "citation-text-only", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Baltimore", "where": "MD", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA had 7,560 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed as of May 2023, representing an employment density of 5.799 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Baltimore region, total authorized new residential building permits declined 12% in 2024 to 6,448 units, down from 2023 levels, and further decreased to 5,775 new residential units authorized in 2025.", "permit_source": "Baltimore Metropolitan Council, 2025 Building Permit Activity Report, 2026, https://www.baltometro.org", "market_context_note": "Regional development in the Baltimore metro area included $638.8 million in permitted non-residential construction value in 2025, led by Baltimore County ($167.7 million), Anne Arundel County, and Baltimore City, concentrated in industrial, public utility/government, and retail/commercial building projects.", "market_context_source": "Baltimore Metropolitan Council, 2025 Building Permit Activity Report, 2026, https://www.baltometro.org", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Birmingham", "where": "AL", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data, the Birmingham-Hoover, AL Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 2,850 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a location quotient of 0.91 relative to the national average and an annual mean wage of $34,890.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_13820.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to HUD SOCDS and Census Building Permits Survey data, residential building permit volume in the Birmingham-Hoover MSA remained virtually flat from 5,176 permitted units in 2021 to 5,173 units in 2022, before moderating slightly to 4,944 units for the 12 months ending March 2023, with trailing 12-month permitting averaging roughly 4,384 units (~3.8 permits per 1,000 residents).", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) / U.S. Census Bureau, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama (2023), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "The Birmingham-Hoover Housing Market Area covers seven counties (Bibb, Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, St. Clair, Shelby, and Walker) where suburban growth in Shelby County (Hoover, Pelham, Alabaster) and Jefferson County provides steady demand for both ongoing residential lawn care and commercial groundskeeping services.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Policy Development and Research, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama (2023), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Boston", "where": "MA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH metropolitan statistical area employed approximately 6,050 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2025, https://www.bls.gov/oes", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit volume in the Boston metropolitan statistical area has trended downward in recent years. Analysis of U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey data indicates that year-to-date residential permitting through mid-2025 fell 44% compared to 2021 levels, with annual permit counts in Boston proper during 2023 and 2024 reaching their lowest levels since 2012.", "permit_source": "Boston Indicators / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025", "market_context_note": "Research from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) indicates that professional landscaping increases commercial property values in Boston by 15% to 20% and achieves 7% to 12% higher leasing premiums.", "market_context_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 2026", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Buffalo", "where": "NY", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY MSA employed 3,390 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing approximately 6.43 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area with a location quotient of 1.05.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_15380.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the Buffalo metro area showed a 10.1% year-over-year increase, totaling 1,316 authorized building permits over a 12-month period (equivalent to 1.13 permits per 1,000 residents), reflecting a modest acceleration from a historically low construction baseline.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey / REI Prime Metro Report, 2024, https://reiprime.com", "market_context_note": "As of August 2024, HUD reported an estimated 3-year market demand for 2,950 new sales units and 5,000 new rental units across the Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls MSA, with 370 single-family homes and 2,675 rental units actively under construction providing steady baseline demand for new landscape installation and site grounds maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, New York, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Charlotte", "where": "NC", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC MSA employed 8,690 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a location quotient of 1.08 and an average density of 6.627 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metro area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_16740.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 3378, "job_value_source": "Angi, How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Charlotte, NC? (2026), https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-charlotte-nc.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC MSA, total new privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits reached 25,935 units in 2024, representing an 11.8% decline from 29,419 units authorized in 2023.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey Annual Data (2024), https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "The Charlotte region added over 57,000 net new residents from migration between mid-2023 and mid-2024 (~157 people per day) with a 1.9% year-over-year population growth rate, sustaining high demand for residential groundskeeping, hardscaping, and land development across Mecklenburg, Union, and Cabarrus counties.", "market_context_source": "SunBeltPulse / U.S. Census Bureau Population Estimates (2026), https://sunbeltpulse.com/metros/charlotte", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Chicago", "where": "IL", "contractor_density_note": "In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI metropolitan area, the landscaping trade employs 28,920 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) representing a density of 6.42 per 1,000 jobs (location quotient of 1.05), alongside 3,200 First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-1012).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "New private housing structures authorized by building permits in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin MSA trended downward following a 2021 peak, experiencing reduced permit issuance through 2022 and 2023 amid elevated interest rates and broader residential construction cooling.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau via FRED (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis), 2024, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CHIC917BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Residential housing permits in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area averaged 162 new units approved per 100,000 residents in 2023, while business application growth in Cook County stagnated after 2021, shifting landscape trade opportunities toward maintenance and existing property upgrades.", "market_context_source": "Illinois Policy Institute, 2024", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Cincinnati", "where": "OH", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 6,600 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with an employment location quotient of 1.00 relative to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_17140.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to HUD housing market data for the Cincinnati OH-KY-IN MSA, single-family residential permit volume expanded to 4,250 units for the 12 months ending August 2025 (up from 3,925 in the prior 12-month period), while annual multifamily permitting totaled 2,525 units, showing a steady upward trajectory in overall residential construction activity.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2026 Housing Market Conditions: Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN MSA, https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "The Cincinnati Regional Chamber's Center for Research and Data reported that Greater Cincinnati added nearly 25,000 residents in Hamilton County alone since 2010, but overall residential building permitting in the region lags behind several peer Midwestern metros, maintaining high demand for existing home upgrades, outdoor living renovations, and grounds maintenance.", "market_context_source": "Cincinnati Regional Chamber, 2024 Regional Indicators Report, https://cincinnatichamber.com", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Cleveland", "where": "OH", "contractor_density_note": "According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 data, the Cleveland-Elyria, OH MSA employs 6,040 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3012) with a location quotient of 0.99, indicating an employment density essentially identical to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_17460.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 6200, "job_value_source": "", "permit_volume_trend": "According to Census Building Permits Survey data, residential building permit volume in the Cleveland-Elyria MSA reached 4,175 authorized units over the trailing 12 months into 2024, a 28.6% year-over-year increase driven by strong permit gains in Cuyahoga County (+43.2%) and Lorain County (+33.4%).", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey / REI Prime Analysis, 2024", "market_context_note": "Construction and site development activity in the Cleveland-Elyria metro expanded by 3.4% (1,300 jobs) over the 12 months ending June 2023, supported by steady commercial developments and infrastructure projects that stimulate demand for commercial groundskeeping and residential landscaping services.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 2023 Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Cleveland-Elyria, Ohio, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "missing", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Columbus", "where": "OH", "contractor_density_note": "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the Columbus, OH MSA employed 6,720 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing approximately 6.3 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_18140.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 1730, "job_value_source": "Angi, How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Columbus, OH?, 2026", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permits in Columbus, OH expanded significantly, with total authorized housing units increasing from 5,283 in 2023 to 6,084 in 2024 (a 15.2% year-over-year increase), placing Columbus among the top Midwest metros for new construction growth.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (2024 Annual Release), 2025, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "Robust economic expansion, sustained population growth, and regional mega-projects, including Intel's $20 billion semiconductor facility in Licking County, are driving multi-year demand for residential housing and commercial construction across the 10-county Columbus MSA.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Columbus, Ohio, 2023, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "citation-text-only", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Dallas-Fort Worth", "where": "TX", "contractor_density_note": "In the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX MSA, the Landscaping & Grounds trade employed 19,840 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, reflecting a density of 5.21 workers per 1,000 jobs.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 3144, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026 Cost Report: How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Dallas, TX?, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-dallas-tx.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington MSA leads the nation, with 71,788 new housing units authorized in 2024 (and over 61,700 authorized through October 2024), maintaining an upward growth trajectory where single-family construction accounts for nearly 60% of total permits.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2024 Building Permits Survey, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps/index.html", "market_context_note": "The Dallas-Fort Worth metro area added more population than any other metropolitan statistical area in the U.S. from 2020 to 2023, driving elevated demand for landscape installation and grounds maintenance across expanding suburban master-planned developments in Collin, Denton, and Tarrant counties.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2024 Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Dallas-Plano-Irving, Texas, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Denver", "where": "CO", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data, the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO MSA employed 10,920 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 6.868 landscaping workers per 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_19740.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 5983, "job_value_source": "Angi, Denver CO Landscaping Cost Guide, 2024", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood MSA saw a significant decline, with single-family home permits dropping 34% during the 12 months ending August 2023 compared to the prior 12-month period, influenced by rising mortgage interest rates and housing affordability pressures.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, Colorado, 2023, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "Demand for landscaping services in the Denver metro area is heavily driven by water conservation policies and climate adaptation. Local utilities including Denver Water and the City of Aurora offer lawn-replacement rebates of $1 to $3 per square foot to incentivize xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscape conversions.", "market_context_source": "Denver Water, Rebates and Conservation Programs, 2024", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "citation-text-only", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Detroit", "where": "MI", "contractor_density_note": "The Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI metropolitan statistical area had 12,050 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) and 1,120 Tree Trimmers and Pruners (SOC 37-3013) employed across all industry sectors.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_19820.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 3811, "job_value_source": "Angi, How Much Does a Paver Patio Cost in Detroit, MI?, 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-paver-patio-cost-detroit-mi.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In May 2026, 728 new private housing units were authorized by building permits in the Detroit-Warren-Dearborn MSA (8,825 units trailing 12-month total), representing a -2.3% year-over-year change compared to the previous year.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, New Private Housing Structures Authorized by Building Permits for Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI (MSA), retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/DETR826BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Landscaping and hardscaping projects in the Detroit area are heavily influenced by seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, driving demand for specialized materials like concrete or brick pavers, sod installation ($1,002-$2,660 typical project range), and spring/summer yard leveling.", "market_context_source": "Angi, How Much Does a Paver Patio Cost in Detroit, MI?, 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-paver-patio-cost-detroit-mi.htm", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Hartford", "where": "CT", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT metropolitan statistical area employed 3,880 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing an employment density of 6.881 workers per 1,000 jobs and a mean hourly wage of $21.61 ($44,940 annual mean wage).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_25540.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT MSA, residential building permits totaled 120 housing units in May 2026 (a +79.1% increase compared to May 2025) and 1,270 total units over the trailing 12 months, with multi-family construction accounting for 64.2% of recently authorized units.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (via PUMSdata), 2026", "market_context_note": "The Hartford labor market area maintains the second highest employment volume for landscaping and groundskeeping workers across Connecticut, driven by steady demand for commercial property care, residential maintenance, and multi-family residential developments.", "market_context_source": "Connecticut Department of Labor, Office of Research, 2023 Occupational Employment Estimates, https://www1.ctdol.state.ct.us/lmi", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Houston", "where": "TX", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data, the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX metropolitan statistical area employed approximately 16,050 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing an employment density of 5.05 workers per 1,000 jobs in the regional economy.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey data retrieved via FRED, total private residential housing structures authorized by building permits in the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land MSA trended gradually downward over recent years, moving from 75,474 units in 2022 to 67,376 in 2023, 65,155 in 2024, and 64,991 in 2025 (a cumulative decline of ~13.9%).", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/HOUS448BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data by Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research showed that the Houston metropolitan area led all U.S. metros in total residential building permits issued in 2023 with 68,755 housing units authorized (including 50,444 single-family homes), highlighting strong ongoing underlying demand for new landscape construction and property maintenance.", "market_context_source": "Kinder Institute for Urban Research, Rice University, 2024, https://kinder.rice.edu/urbanedge/houston-area-led-nation-issuing-building-permits-housing-2023", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Indianapolis", "where": "IN", "contractor_density_note": "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN MSA employed 6,460 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a concentration of 5.964 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area (location quotient of 0.97).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_26900.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permits in the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson MSA totaled 13,794 authorized units in 2022 (a 2.5% year-over-year increase) valued at $3.6 billion. While permitting activity temporarily moderated in early 2023 due to interest rate pressures, total annual permits remained robust at over 13,000 units, with high-volume residential expansion concentrated in suburban ring counties such as Hamilton and Hendricks.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey, 2023, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "A HUD Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis projected demand for 22,850 owner housing units over a three-year forecast period in the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson HMA, highlighting active suburban developments in Hamilton and Hendricks counties that continue to drive demand for landscape installation and grounds maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2023, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Jacksonville", "where": "FL", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, there were 5,980 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the Jacksonville, FL MSA, representing a location quotient of 1.32 (32% higher than the national average concentration) and 8.07 workers per 1,000 total jobs.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Jacksonville, FL, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_27260.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Data from the U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey shows that new private housing units authorized by building permits in the Jacksonville, FL MSA maintained steady construction activity, averaging between 1,000 and 1,500 authorized units per month through mid-2026, sustaining ongoing demand for landscaping installation and grounds care.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau via Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis FRED, New Private Housing Units Authorized by Building Permits for Jacksonville, FL (MSA) [JACK212BPPRIV], 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/JACK212BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "According to analysis of U.S. Census Bureau building permit data by the National Association of Home Builders, single-family residential permitting across Florida saw a 10.3% year-over-year decrease in 2025 due to interest rate pressures, while multi-family permitting increased by 29.6%, shifting growth toward multi-unit and commercial landscaping developments.", "market_context_source": "National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Building Permits by State and Metro Area Report, 2026", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Kansas City", "where": "MO", "contractor_density_note": "In the Kansas City, MO-KS metropolitan statistical area, there were 6,390 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed, representing a mean hourly wage of $19.60 and an annual mean wage of $40,760.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_28140.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 2894, "job_value_source": "Angi, 'How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Kansas City, MO? [2026 Data]', 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-kansas-city-mo.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit volumes in the Kansas City metropolitan region declined in 2023 to their lowest levels in over a decade, with annual residential construction averaging about 6,700 combined single-family and multifamily units per year since 2008, representing roughly 58% of pre-2007 historical levels.", "permit_source": "Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), 'KC Area Building Permits', 2024", "market_context_note": "Persistent underbuilding across the Greater Kansas City area since 2008 has produced a regional housing shortfall estimated between 12,000 and 24,000 units, putting upward pressure on housing values and sustained demand for residential property improvement.", "market_context_source": "Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), 'KC Area Building Permits', 2024", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Las Vegas", "where": "NV", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 6,580 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV metropolitan statistical area, earning an hourly mean wage of $18.50 and an annual mean wage of $38,480.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Metropolitan Estimates, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_29820.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to U.S. Census Bureau building permit data, new private housing structures authorized by building permits in Clark County (Las Vegas metro) totaled 16,307 in 2021, moderated to 13,066 in 2022 and 13,073 in 2023, and subsequently rebounded to 14,754 in 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, New Private Housing Structures Authorized by Building Permits for Clark County, NV, retrieved from FRED (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis), 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/BPPRIV032003", "market_context_note": "HUD's Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis for the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise MSA notes that residential market conditions eased as interest rates rose, with total home sales falling 26% in 2022 and 22% in 2023, and rental unit permitting dropping 33% in 2023 to 3,325 units, while employment growth continued at a steady 2.8% annual pace.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, Nevada, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Los Angeles", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA metropolitan statistical area employed 27,930 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in May 2023. This represents a density of 4.51 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area (location quotient of 0.74) with an annual mean wage of $43,530.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) - May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to the U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, total new privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA metropolitan area declined from 13,154 units in 2023 to 10,488 units in 2024, a decrease of 2,666 units (-20.3%).", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (BPS) - 2024 Annual Building Permits Survey, 2025, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "Under California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulations, a C-27 Landscape Contractor license is required for any landscaping project valued at $500 or more in combined labor and materials. Additionally, residential landscaping in Los Angeles is governed by the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), which restricts irrigated turf coverage on new residential construction projects to a maximum of 25% of the total landscaped area.", "market_context_source": "California Lawncare Authority, California Landscaping Industry Overview and Regulatory Compliance, 2024, https://californialawncareauthority.com", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Louisville", "where": "KY", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN MSA employed approximately 3,300 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing a trade worker density of 4.97 per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_31140.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "New residential construction permitting in Louisville/Jefferson County has experienced a downward trend over recent years, declining from an annual average of 3,613 permits between 2014 and 2018 to an annual average of 1,488 permits between 2019 and 2023, with 1,239 new construction permits issued in 2023.", "permit_source": "Louisville Metro Government, Housing Needs Assessment, 2024, https://louisvilleky.gov", "market_context_note": "A HUD Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis for the Louisville MSA identified three-year market demand for 9,350 new sales housing units and 6,350 rental units, providing sustained demand for site preparation, landscape installation, and grounds maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Louisville, Kentucky-Indiana, 2023, https://www.huduser.gov", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Memphis", "where": "TN", "contractor_density_note": "In the Memphis, TN-MS-AR Metropolitan Statistical Area, there were 2,860 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed as of May 2023, representing an employment concentration of 4.575 workers per 1,000 jobs (location quotient of 0.75).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_32820.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential construction and permit activity in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR MSA showed a moderating trend, with home sales falling 14% year-over-year to 22,200 total sales for the 12 months ending May 2024, and 1,950 multi-family units under construction satisfying the bulk of forecasted 3-year rental demand.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Memphis, Tennessee-Mississippi-Arkansas Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis (2024), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "Housing and commercial grounds maintenance demand in the Memphis metro is supported by major regional capital investments, including Ford Motor Company's $5.6 billion BlueOval City megasite campus, alongside an average home sale price of $276,300 as of mid-2024.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Memphis, Tennessee-Mississippi-Arkansas Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis (2024), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Miami", "where": "FL", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL metropolitan area employed 20,490 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with a concentration of 7.53 workers per 1,000 jobs (location quotient of 1.23).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "The Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach metropolitan area authorized 16,352 new residential housing units in 2024, representing a 23.3% decline compared to 21,320 units authorized in 2023.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2024, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "Demand for landscaping services in the Miami metropolitan area is heavily influenced by ongoing residential development, with multi-family structures accounting for approximately 85% of newly authorized residential housing units.", "market_context_source": "MIAMI Association of Realtors / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey Analysis, 2025, https://www.miamirealtors.com", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Milwaukee", "where": "WI", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, there were 5,030 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI metropolitan area, representing a location quotient of 1.01 and an annual mean wage of $39,670 ($19.07 hourly mean).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), published April 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_39540.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Milwaukee metropolitan area, multi-family residential permitting declined during 2021-2023 compared to pre-pandemic (2017-2019) levels while single-family permitting held flat, though single-family permitting experienced a modest uptick in the 12 months ending August 2025.", "permit_source": "Wisconsin Policy Forum, Housing Permit Activity Stagnates in Wisconsin (2024), https://wispolicyforum.org and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) PD&R Housing Market Profiles: Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI (2025), https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "The City of Milwaukee Zoning Code enforces urban landscape and screening requirements for commercial developments and parking lots, allowing green infrastructure elements like rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable paving as allowable substitutions to meet municipal landscape standards.", "market_context_source": "City of Milwaukee Development Center, Parking Lot Landscaping & Screening Guide (2022), https://city.milwaukee.gov/permits", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Minneapolis-St. Paul", "where": "MN", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI MSA employed 11,200 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 5.86 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_33460.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential construction permit volume in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MSA experienced a moderate cooling trend following post-pandemic highs, with single-family building permits averaging approximately 9,500 units annually from 2020 through 2024 and total authorized residential housing units declining by approximately 6.8% year-over-year across 2024-2025.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau & HUD (2024), State of the Cities Data Systems (SOCDS) Building Permits Database, https://socds.huduser.gov/permits", "market_context_note": "The Minnesota Landscaping Services industry expanded steadily through 2026, supported by key market drivers including residential construction activity, private nonresidential construction value, per capita disposable income, and climate-driven demand for seasonal groundskeeping, hardscaping, and winter property management.", "market_context_source": "IBISWorld (2026), Landscaping Services in Minnesota Industry Report, https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Nashville", "where": "TN", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN Metropolitan Statistical Area had 5,140 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in May 2023, representing a density of 4.786 workers per 1,000 jobs.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_34980.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential permitting activity in the Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin MSA remained active with 17,930 total housing permits authorized over a trailing 12-month period (up 19.0% year-over-year), while construction moderated toward sustainable levels with 22,800 rental units and 7,700 single-family sales homes under construction as of April 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, Tennessee, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "Market demand for landscaping services in Middle Tennessee is driven by steady population growth and property development, with landscape maintenance activities accounting for 82% of total industry revenue statewide.", "market_context_source": "University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Extension, 2020, https://extension.tennessee.edu", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "New Orleans", "where": "LA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the New Orleans-Metairie, LA MSA employed 2,170 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, representing a location quotient of 0.69 compared to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_35380.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential construction permitting in the New Orleans-Metairie MSA experienced a significant contraction, with total residential permits dropping 68.4% year-over-year (falling from 376 to 119 units) and single-family permits declining by 75% in 2025.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "Residential housing activity in the New Orleans metro area remains suppressed, recording a low permitting rate of 0.3 new units per 1,000 residents and an 8.0% year-over-year decline in median asking rents as of mid-2026.", "market_context_source": "Realtor.com, 2026", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "New York", "where": "NY", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), there were 51,790 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA metropolitan statistical area, representing approximately 5.45 workers per 1,000 jobs with a location quotient of 0.89.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 3363, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026, https://www.angi.com", "permit_volume_trend": "According to U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey reports via HUD User, residential construction activity in the New York-Newark-Jersey City MSA saw multi-family building permit volume contract significantly (down 19% to 51% across recent tracking periods), while single-family residential permitting experienced modest stabilization and occasional single-digit to low double-digit percentage gains.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey / HUD User Regional Reports, 2025, https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "The New York-Newark-Jersey City metropolitan area encompasses roughly 19.8 million residents with a median property value of $614,200, creating ongoing demand for high-end residential landscaping, grounds maintenance, and outdoor living upgrades.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey / DataUSA, 2024, https://datausa.io/profile/geo/new-york-newark-jersey-city-ny-nj-pa-metro-area", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Oklahoma City", "where": "OK", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the Oklahoma City, OK Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 4,180 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with an employment location quotient of 1.04 relative to the national baseline.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_36420.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Oklahoma City MSA, residential construction activity remained substantial as of June 2024, with 4,250 single-family sales units and 5,525 rental units under construction. Over the June 2024 to June 2027 forecast period, total housing demand is estimated at 19,550 single-family sales units and 4,475 rental units, despite home sales declining 15% in the 12 months ending May 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Policy Development and Research, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "Nonfarm payroll employment in the Oklahoma City metro area grew by 18,700 jobs (2.7%) in the 12 months ending May 2024 to reach 704,100 jobs, exceeding 2019 pre-pandemic levels by 6.5% and supporting steady market demand across local residential and commercial property maintenance sectors.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Orlando", "where": "FL", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL MSA employed 10,890 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing 7.97 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area and a location quotient of 1.30 relative to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL (2024), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_36740.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 2586, "job_value_source": "Angi, How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Orlando, FL? (2026), https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey data, total residential building permits in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL MSA increased by 15% from 24,135 units in 2024 to 27,758 units in 2025, outperforming national construction trends driven by regional expansion.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (2026), https://www.census.gov/construction/bps", "market_context_note": "A U.S. HUD Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis reported the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford MSA population reached 2.87 million as of July 1, 2024, supported by nonfarm employment growth and 74 million annual visitors generating $87.6 billion in economic impact. HUD projects demand for 46,750 new sales homes and 27,200 additional rental units through July 2027, maintaining strong demand for residential and commercial landscape installation and maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Policy Development and Research, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, Florida (2024), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Philadelphia", "where": "PA", "contractor_density_note": "According to May 2023 BLS OEWS estimates for the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD metropolitan area, there were 18,430 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the metro, representing a density of 6.51 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.06.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 2670, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026 Philadelphia PA Landscaping Cost Guide, https://www.angi.com", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential permitting activity in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington MSA experienced a temporary slowdown from 2021-2022 peaks, issuing 12,442 housing unit permits through late 2023 (5,559 single-family and 6,883 multi-family units), before single-family permit issuance stabilized and turned to positive year-over-year growth into 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey / Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis FRED, 2024, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PHIL942BP1FHSA", "market_context_note": "The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia reported in its 2025 Small Business Credit Survey brief that 63% of small employer firms in the Philadelphia metro noted fair or poor financial conditions in 2024 due to rising operational expenses, though top-line revenue performance remained stable. Landscaping demand continues to be supported by residential renovations and local municipal greening initiatives.", "market_context_source": "Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, 2025 Small Business Credit Survey: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington Metro Area Insights", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Phoenix", "where": "AZ", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 15,270 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) in May 2023, representing a density of 6.67 jobs per 1,000 total jobs in the metro area (location quotient of 1.09).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_38060.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit authorizations in the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ MSA peaked in 2021-2022 at over 60,000 total units before experiencing a significant downward correction through late 2022 and 2023 due to elevated mortgage rates, followed by a moderation and stabilization in permitting activity through 2024-2025.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, New Private Housing Structures Authorized by Building Permits for Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ (MSA), retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PHOE004BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Landscaping and grounds service demand in the Phoenix metro area is driven by sustained population growth (adding tens of thousands of residents annually) and ongoing commercial/residential development, alongside increasing local adoption of water-wise land management including xeriscaping, artificial turf, and drip irrigation systems tailored to the desert climate.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, Arizona, 2023, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Pittsburgh", "where": "PA", "contractor_density_note": "According to May 2023 BLS OEWS data, the Pittsburgh, PA Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 6,770 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with an hourly mean wage of $17.75 and an annual mean wage of $36,910.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Pittsburgh, PA, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_38300.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 1590, "job_value_source": "HomeYou, Pittsburgh, PA Landscaping Cost Guide, 2026", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit volume in the Pittsburgh MSA / HMA declined approximately 10% from 7,400 total units permitted in 2023 to 6,658 units for the 12-month period ending April 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) PD&R, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "Statewide housing data indicates Pennsylvania encompasses over 5.8 million housing units, with residential population and housing inventory heavily concentrated in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, supporting ongoing demand for residential landscape installation, hardscaping, and seasonal property upkeep.", "market_context_source": "Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Pennsylvania Comprehensive Housing Study, 2024", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "citation-text-only", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Portland", "where": "OR", "contractor_density_note": "According to the May 2023 BLS OEWS, the Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA metropolitan area employed 6,410 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 5.312 jobs per 1,000 total occupations in the metro area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_38900.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential construction permitting in the Portland metropolitan area and Oregon state has slowed in recent years: statewide housing permits declined from over 20,000 in 2022 to under 18,000 in 2023 and roughly 13,000 in 2024, with total housing unit permits inside Portland city limits dropping 47.4% from 3,089 in 2023 to 1,624 in 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2025, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PORT941BP1FH", "market_context_note": "To address regional housing shortages, the City of Portland adopted a Housing Production Strategy targeting 6,000 new units per year against an estimated total demand for 120,560 dwelling units by 2045, generating long-term demand for site prep, urban infill development, and landscaping infrastructure.", "market_context_source": "City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, 2024, https://www.portland.gov/council/documents/resolution/adopted/37673", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Providence", "where": "RI", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 4,480 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of approximately 9.18 workers per 1,000 jobs.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_39300.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "According to the U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, residential building permit issuance in the Providence-Warwick, RI-MA MSA experienced a multi-year slowdown overall between 2022 and 2024 due to elevated mortgage rates and construction costs, with multi-family developments accounting for 48.9% of total authorized housing units in 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2024, https://www.census.gov/construction/bps/index.html", "market_context_note": "According to Realtor.com market insights, median home listing prices in Providence County reached $480,000 with homes selling in a median of 25 days, maintaining strong demand for residential groundskeeping, hardscaping, and exterior curb-appeal enhancements.", "market_context_source": "Realtor.com, 2026, https://www.realtor.com/research/data", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Raleigh", "where": "NC", "median_job_value_usd": 2947, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-raleigh-nc.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "The Raleigh-Cary metro area authorized 18,206 residential building permits trailing 12 months, yielding 12.81 permits per 1,000 residents with a year-over-year permit volume increase of +15.5%, representing one of the highest-velocity construction pipelines in the nation.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey (retrieved via FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis), 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/RALE537BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Demand for landscaping contractors in the Raleigh-Cary metro is heavily propelled by rapid population in-migration, corporate/tech campus expansion, university infrastructure growth, and master-planned single-family residential development across Wake County.", "market_context_source": "BidFlow Procurement Guide, 2025", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Richmond", "where": "VA", "contractor_density_note": "According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data for the Richmond, VA MSA, there were 4,170 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) employed in the metropolitan area in May 2023, representing a density of 6.434 groundskeeping workers per 1,000 jobs (location quotient of 1.05).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Richmond, VA, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_40060.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the Richmond, VA metro area moderated after reaching post-pandemic peaks, with regional building permit volume declining by roughly 20% in early 2024 compared to 2023 levels as higher mortgage rates slowed new residential authorizations.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (via Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis FRED), 2024, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/RICH051BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "Landscaping and grounds trade demand in the Richmond metropolitan market is anchored by ongoing residential expansion in suburban submarkets such as Chesterfield and Henrico counties, where suburban housing developments and multi-family rental completions maintain steady demand for initial site installations and ongoing maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Richmond, Virginia, 2022, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Riverside-San Bernardino", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS estimates, the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA MSA employed 13,520 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 8.13 workers per 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_38860.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential permit activity in the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario MSA saw a drop in single-family permits of approximately 36% from early 2022 to early 2023 (falling from a peak of 1,588 units monthly down to 400-700 units), while multifamily permitting temporarily surged over 45% to reach 5,150 units. Overall permitting volume subsequently contracted through 2024-2025, dropping by roughly 39% compared to 2020 levels primarily due to a pullback in large multifamily projects.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) PD&R, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA (2022), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "market_context_note": "The Inland Empire (Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario MSA) has grown to over 4.65 million residents, gaining population from cost-driven inward migration out of coastal Los Angeles and Orange counties. This expansion drives ongoing demand for residential landscape installation, commercial groundskeeping, and industrial/logistics facility maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) PD&R, Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis: Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA (2022), https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Sacramento", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "In May 2023, the Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 8,110 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a density of 7.74 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metro area (location quotient of 1.26).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_40900.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Construction permit activity in Sacramento expanded significantly from 2022 to 2024, growing from 5,191 total construction permits ($1.30 billion valuation) in 2022 to 6,894 permits ($1.77 billion valuation) in 2023, and maintaining a elevated level of 6,747 permits in 2024 with a total valuation rising to $1.96 billion.", "permit_source": "California Employment Development Department (EDD) / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2024, https://labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov", "market_context_note": "The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) notes that in California, contractors must hold a C-27 Landscape Contractor License issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for any landscape project exceeding $1,000 in combined labor and materials.", "market_context_source": "California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA), 2026, https://www.clca.org", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Salt Lake City", "where": "UT", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 OEWS estimates, the Salt Lake City, UT Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 4,590 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011).", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_41620.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "In 2024, Salt Lake City issued 9,190 total building permits, representing a slight decline in volume from the prior two years. However, total permitted project valuation reached a record $3,370,854,818 (over $3.37 billion), more than a billion dollars higher than any prior year in the city's history, driven by large multi-family residential, commercial, and industrial projects.", "permit_source": "Salt Lake City Building Services Division, 2025", "market_context_note": "Salt Lake City updated its Landscaping & Buffers Code (Title 21A.48) to enforce water-efficient landscaping (xeriscaping) and drought-tolerant planting standards across new developments and major site renovations, including restrictions on turf grass and bans on artificial turf in required landscaped areas to reduce urban heat and conserve water.", "market_context_source": "Salt Lake City Planning Division, 2024", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "San Antonio", "where": "TX", "contractor_density_note": "According to Census Bureau County Business Patterns data, there were 3,124 landscaping services establishments (NAICS 561730) operating in the San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX MSA. Additionally, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data reported 4,010 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3012) employed across the metropolitan area.", "density_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 County Business Patterns, https://www.census.gov/data/datasets/2022/econ/cbp/2022-cbp.html and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_41700.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential sales/single-family unit permitting in the San Antonio-New Braunfels MSA expanded by more than 17 percent (an increase of 2,650 units) to 17,800 permitted sales units for the 12 months ending September 2024. Conversely, apartment rental permitting slowed below 4,000 units during the same period following a high-volume delivery phase.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD USER Housing Market Profile: San Antonio, Texas (2024), https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "As of October 2024, the San Antonio-New Braunfels metro population reached an estimated 2.77 million, expanding by an average of 47,100 residents (1.8 percent) annually since 2020, providing strong foundational demand for ongoing property development and landscape maintenance services.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD USER Housing Market Profile: San Antonio, Texas (2024), https://www.huduser.gov", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "San Diego", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data, the San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA metropolitan statistical area employed approximately 10,870 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with a mean hourly wage of $21.90 and a median annual wage of $45,560.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes", "median_job_value_usd": 25000, "job_value_source": "Greenway Landscape Design & Build, 2024 Landscape Pricing Guide, https://grnway.com", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad MSA remained steady, authorizing 11,572 new private housing units in 2024 compared to 11,469 units in 2023, reflecting stable overall housing construction following a post-2022 multi-family moderation.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey / Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED), 2024, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/SAND706BPPRIV", "market_context_note": "The San Diego MSA encompasses an estimated 1.2 million households with stable economic conditions, where balanced rental market vacancies (5.0%-5.4%) and high property values sustain steady demand for outdoor living upgrades, hardscaping, and ongoing grounds maintenance.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD User), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA Housing Market Conditions Report, 2026, https://www.huduser.gov", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "San Francisco", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA metropolitan statistical area employed 12,270 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011). In addition, U.S. Census Bureau County Business Patterns (CBP) data reported 1,403 Landscaping Services (NAICS 561730) establishment units in the regional metropolitan market area.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS (2023), https://www.bls.gov/oes/ and U.S. Census Bureau County Business Patterns (2019 via Marin Transit DBE Goal Methodology 2022), https://marintransit.gov", "median_job_value_usd": 3204, "job_value_source": "Angi San Francisco Landscaping Cost Report (2026), https://www.angi.com", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential construction permitting in the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley MSA declined 18.8% in 2022 to 11,048 total housing units authorized ($3.0 billion total permit value). In the city of San Francisco, authorized new housing units dropped further in 2023 to 1,823 units, representing the lowest annual permitting level since 2010 due to elevated interest rates and high construction costs.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey (2023), https://www.census.gov/construction/bps/ and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis (2024), https://www.huduser.gov", "market_context_note": "While new residential building permits have slowed across the metro area, demand for landscaping and grounds maintenance remains supported by high median home values and strong homeowner spending on existing outdoor property improvements, despite ongoing labor recruitment challenges and rising labor costs across the trade.", "market_context_source": "National Association of Landscape Professionals (2025 Financial Benchmark Study), https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (2024/2025), https://www.huduser.gov", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "San Jose", "where": "CA", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA MSA employed 6,200 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), corresponding to an employment density of 5.43 workers per 1,000 total jobs in the metropolitan area and a location quotient of 0.89 relative to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Total residential building permits issued in the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara MSA declined by 68% between July 2020 and July 2025, dropping from 1,949 permits to 623 permits, representing the steepest permit drop among major U.S. metropolitan areas over that timeframe.", "permit_source": "San José Spotlight / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025", "market_context_note": "In the San Jose metropolitan area (covering Santa Clara and San Benito counties), multifamily residential housing permits issued from January through July 2025 fell by 41% year-over-year to 1,013 units, down from 1,729 units authorized during the same period in 2024.", "market_context_source": "SFGATE / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "Seattle", "where": "WA", "contractor_density_note": "As of May 2023, the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA metropolitan area employed 10,880 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), representing a workforce density of 5.23 workers per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.85.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373011.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 5476, "job_value_source": "Angi, 2026", "permit_volume_trend": "In the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro, single-family building permit activity rose 16% year-over-year through September 2024 (5,135 permits) while multifamily dropped 12% (7,452 permits). By May 2025 YTD, total permitting contracted further, with single-family permits down 8% (2,709 permits) and multifamily permits down 46% (2,587 permits) compared to the prior year.", "permit_source": "Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) / HUD State of the Cities Data Systems (SOCDS) / U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, 2025, https://www.mbaks.com", "market_context_note": "Seattle's temperate climate leads to relatively steady year-round landscaping demand compared to colder regions, though contractor scheduling and pricing peak during the April-to-October warm stretch, with general hourly labor rates averaging $60 to $115 per hour.", "market_context_source": "Angi, 2026", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "citation-text-only", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "citation-text-only" }, { "name": "St. Louis", "where": "MO", "contractor_density_note": "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the St. Louis, MO-IL Metropolitan Statistical Area employed 8,730 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_41180.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Residential building permit activity in the St. Louis, MO-IL MSA declined in 2025: single-family unit authorizations fell 10% to 4,175 units (down from 4,650 in 2024) and multifamily authorizations fell 19% to 1,650 units (down from 2,050 in 2024), placing overall residential construction permitting below historical averages.", "permit_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD User), Housing Market Profiles: St. Louis, Missouri-Illinois, 2026", "market_context_note": "As of May 2023, Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in the St. Louis, MO-IL MSA earned a mean hourly wage of $19.30 ($40,140 annual mean wage) with a location quotient of 1.08, indicating labor concentration in landscaping maintenance slightly above the national baseline.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_41180.htm", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "citation-text-only", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Tampa", "where": "FL", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS (May 2023), the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL MSA employed 8,750 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011), with a location quotient of 1.01 relative to the national average.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 OEWS Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_45300.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Single-family residential building permits in the Tampa MSA experienced a slowdown after peaking at 19,305 in 2021, declining to 15,678 in 2022 and 14,502 in 2023 due to rising housing costs, elevated mortgage rates, and property insurance price increases.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, cited in Tampa Bay EDC Market Report, 2024, https://tampabayedc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Tampa-Bay-EDC-2024-Market-Report.pdf", "market_context_note": "Florida's nursery, landscape, and lawn care industry generated $41.9 billion in total economic impact across the state in 2023, supporting 279,041 jobs statewide driven by steady population growth and expanding residential developments.", "market_context_source": "Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA), Economic Impact of Florida's Green Industry Report, 2024, https://www.fngla.org", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Virginia Beach", "where": "VA", "contractor_density_note": "According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC metropolitan area employed 4,340 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) as of May 2023, with an annual mean wage of $36,510 and a location quotient of 0.96.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_47260.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "Single-family housing building permits in the Hampton Roads / Virginia Beach metropolitan area increased by 5.5% in 2024 compared to the prior year, marking a positive turnaround after three consecutive years of declining permit activity.", "permit_source": "Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, 2025, https://www.hrpdcva.gov", "market_context_note": "A HUD Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis as of November 1, 2024, projected three-year regional housing demand for 11,000 new single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, as well as 6,175 new rental units, supporting steady long-term demand for landscaping and grounds maintenance services.", "market_context_source": "U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2024, https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ushmc/chma_archive.html", "density_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url", "market_context_source_access": "url" }, { "name": "Washington DC", "where": "DC", "contractor_density_note": "According to the May 2023 BLS OEWS survey, the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area employed 16,680 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers (SOC 37-3011) with an employment density location quotient of 0.88 and an annual mean wage of $42,750.", "density_source": "U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2023, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_47900.htm", "median_job_value_usd": 2686, "job_value_source": "Angi, How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Washington, D.C.?, 2026, https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost-washington-dc.htm", "permit_volume_trend": "New private housing units authorized by building permits in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area experienced a sharp downward trend in recent years, falling from 7,705 units in 2022 to 3,020 units in 2023 and 1,737 units in 2024.", "permit_source": "U.S. Census Bureau, retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2026, https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/WASH911BPPRIV", "density_source_access": "url", "job_value_source_access": "url", "permit_source_access": "url" } ] }, "market_structure": { "permits": [], "seasonality": [], "size_tiers": [], "top_states": [] }, "reputation": { "available": true, "source": "Public business-review listings (aggregated April 2026). Aggregate only; no individual business identified.", "n_businesses": 20019, "avg_rating": 3.68, "rating_p25": 3, "rating_median": 3.9, "rating_p75": 4.7, "avg_reviews": 13.65, "reviews_median": 6, "reviews_p90": 28, "claimed_pct": 67.5, "closed_pct": 4.7, "top_states": [ { "state": "CA", "n": 4153 }, { "state": "TX", "n": 1507 }, { "state": "FL", "n": 1336 }, { "state": "IL", "n": 833 }, { "state": "WA", "n": 825 } ], "source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "firmographics": { "available": true, "source": "Aggregated public business firmographic records (multi-source SMB dataset). Revenue/employee/age/employer-rating distributions per trade. Aggregate only; no individual company identified.", "n_companies": 4771, "revenue_usd": { "n": 1718, "p25": 6100000, "median": 10760825, "p75": 21431927, "p90": 36500000 }, "employees": { "n": 1015, "p25": 35, "median": 50, "p75": 94, "p90": 194 }, "founded_year_median": 2004, "employer_rating_avg": 3.71, "employer_rating_n": 892, "top_states": [], "source_access": "citation-text-only" }, "level_published": null, "comps": [ { "ticker": "BV", "name": "BrightView Holdings, Inc.", "return_6m_pct": 3.6, "return_1y_pct": -0.8, "gross_margin_pct": 21.97, "ev_ebitda": 6.59, "market_cap_billions": 1.33, "market_snapshot_date": "2026-07-23", "fiscal_period": "Q2 FY2026 (TTM ended March 31, 2026)", "publication_status": "historical", "current_comparison_eligible": false, "comparison_scope": "historical-reference-only" }, { "ticker": "POOL", "name": "Pool Corporation", "return_6m_pct": -13.6, "return_1y_pct": -36.9, "gross_margin_pct": 29.69, "ev_ebitda": 13.75, "market_cap_billions": 7.33, "market_snapshot_date": "2026-07-23", "fiscal_period": "TTM (Q1 2026)", "publication_status": "historical", "current_comparison_eligible": false, "comparison_scope": "historical-reference-only" }, { "ticker": "SITE", "name": "SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.", "return_6m_pct": -27.8, "return_1y_pct": -27.9, "gross_margin_pct": 34.94, "ev_ebitda": 14.88, "market_cap_billions": 4.55, "market_snapshot_date": "2026-07-23", "fiscal_period": "TTM (Q1 2026 ended March 29, 2026)", "publication_status": "historical", "current_comparison_eligible": false, "comparison_scope": "historical-reference-only" }, { "ticker": "SMG", "name": "The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company", "return_6m_pct": -2, "return_1y_pct": 12.2, "gross_margin_pct": 32.49, "ev_ebitda": 11.83, "market_cap_billions": 3.99, "market_snapshot_date": "2026-07-23", "fiscal_period": "TTM", "publication_status": "historical", "current_comparison_eligible": false, "comparison_scope": "historical-reference-only" }, { "ticker": "TTC", "name": "The Toro Company", "return_6m_pct": -4, "return_1y_pct": 17, "gross_margin_pct": 33.57, "ev_ebitda": 14.68, "market_cap_billions": 8.88, "market_snapshot_date": "2026-07-23", "fiscal_period": "Q2 2026", "publication_status": "historical", "current_comparison_eligible": false, "comparison_scope": "historical-reference-only" } ] }