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Job outlook for landscape architects in the United States
Landscape architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected landscape architect job growth rate is 0% from 2018-2028.
About 0 new jobs for landscape architects are projected over the next decade.
Landscape architect salaries have increased 11% for landscape architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 16,072 landscape architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 77,084 active landscape architect job openings in the US.
The average landscape architect salary is $62,379.
Are landscape architect jobs in demand?
Landscape architect job and salary trends over time
Landscape architect jobs over time
Landscape architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 16,072 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 19,114 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 18,699 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 17,206 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 17,556 | 0.01% |
Average landscape architect salary over time
Landscape architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $62,379 | $29.99 | +1.8% |
| 2025 | $61,257 | $29.45 | +1.7% |
| 2024 | $60,259 | $28.97 | +3.8% |
| 2023 | $58,078 | $27.92 | +3.6% |
| 2022 | $56,064 | $26.95 | --0.5% |
Landscape architect jobs by state
Most common states for landscape architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 145 | 19% |
| 2 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 903 | 15% |
| 3 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 134 | 13% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 122 | 13% |
| 5 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,594 | 12% |
| 6 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,235 | 12% |
| 7 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,081 | 12% |
| 8 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 677 | 12% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 653 | 12% |
| 10 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 442 | 12% |
| 11 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 160 | 12% |
| 12 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 85 | 12% |
| 13 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,166 | 11% |
| 14 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 849 | 11% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 182 | 11% |
| 16 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,247 | 10% |
| 17 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 582 | 10% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 188 | 10% |
| 19 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 2,429 | 9% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 65 | 9% |
Most common cities for landscape architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rockville | 2 | 3% | $58,807 |
| 2 | Silver Spring | 2 | 3% | $58,855 |
| 3 | Ankeny | 1 | 2% | $47,155 |
| 4 | Ashburn | 1 | 2% | $72,567 |
| 5 | Bowie | 1 | 2% | $58,986 |
| 6 | Coral Gables | 1 | 2% | $58,493 |
| 7 | Boston | 7 | 1% | $69,574 |
| 8 | Charlotte | 5 | 1% | $50,666 |
| 9 | Baltimore | 4 | 1% | $59,119 |
| 10 | Tampa | 4 | 1% | $58,092 |
| 11 | Asheville | 1 | 1% | $50,503 |
| 12 | Bellevue | 1 | 1% | $67,188 |
| 13 | Seattle | 3 | 0% | $67,263 |
| 14 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $59,743 |
| 15 | Jacksonville | 2 | 0% | $57,304 |
| 16 | Los Angeles | 2 | 0% | $76,766 |
| 17 | Raleigh | 2 | 0% | $51,178 |
| 18 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $56,399 |
| 19 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $60,356 |
| 20 | Colorado Springs | 1 | 0% | $60,082 |
Landscape Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of landscape architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Missouri University of Science and Technology
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
Truckee Meadows Community College
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Idaho
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
The Catholic University of America
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
University at Buffalo – The State University of New York
Seminole State College of Florida
Rochester Institute of Technology
University of California, Davis
Kansas State University
The Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What will help Landscape Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Starting salary is something they can/should consider – but it is often better for recent graduates to understand the growth potential with a particular employer/firm and understand what other benefits exist. We tell them to ask questions about the typical promotion steps within an organization, for example. Students that have taken the FE exam should highlight that – and ask questions in the interview about what mentoring there is within a firm to take the PE exam – it shows a positive level of professional attitude. Our students work for architects, engineering consultancy, contractors, etc. I think Bankrate listed AE as the most rewarding degree a few years ago – and one of the items listed was the diversity of office and fieldwork that makes employment enjoyable (i.e. not stuck in their office all week)
Heath Pickerill PhD
Assistant Teaching ProfessorMissouri University of Science and Technology
Architectural Engineering
What Landscape Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Being competent in CAD software, especially 3D modeling such as Revit, as well as demonstrating strong project management skills, which can be honed through leadership opportunities in professional organizations and design teams. Graduates should also understand the ethical implications and limitations of AI software in the production of written documents and basic design solutions.
What general advice would you give to a Landscape Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Landscape Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What general advice would you give to a Landscape Architect?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Adaptability will always be an important skill. There will be software improvements and changes that you need to stay aware of and technology that will benefit both the design and construction sides of the industry. Communication will remain an important part of the way we work together in teams.
What general advice would you give to a Landscape Architect?
Kreg Mebust: While every job has its plusses and minuses, landscape architecture is not immune. Landscape
architects may often be frustrated when creating policy changes via city municipal codes are a lengthy
and time-consuming process. It is often said, that we plant a tree for the enjoyment of the next
generation, and while some solutions see results overnight, some require patience. As for the joy of
Landscape Architecture, it is a splendid combination of the creative and analytical sides of our brains.
As stated, we are graphic problem solvers. In my position, as a practicing landscape architect for more
than 35 years, it is rewarding to see a design vision come to fruition. It is meaningful to see a design
solution mitigate an environmental concern. In closing, design matters and should be enjoyed and
accessible by all. Conversely, our pool of Landscape Architects is coming from more diverse cultures and
backgrounds. A field once dominated by men, today more and more females can be found within the
profession.
What Landscape Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kreg Mebust: Climate change is at the forefront of many discussions, locally and nationally. Landscape
Architects can and do play a vital role in this discourse and outcomes. For example, they are trained to
mitigate the global rise in temperatures by analyzing and mitigating urban heat islands, selecting
appropriate drought resistant plants and trees and planning open spaces and parks for respite from the
heat allowing users to reconnect with nature’s restorative qualities. In my position, as a professor
teaching the subject of landscape architecture, I have found that our next generation is concerned about
our environment and want to be a part of the solution.
What will help Landscape Architects increase their earning potential?
Kreg Mebust: At the core, Landscape Architects are graphic problem solvers. It is a licensed profession that
protects the health, safety, and welfare of citizens and provides stewardship of the environment. On a
daily bases, they can be found working on design problems that often include: the design of city and
neighborhood parks, parking lot layouts, reconfiguring topographical contours to safely move people
along sidewalks or along a backcountry trail, creating spatial experiences or places accessible to all
people using plant material, hardscapes, and outdoor furnishings. To ensure the success of these places
they analyze soils, select suitable plantings and design irrigation systems specific to each site. They are
aware of one of our most precious resources – water. Landscape Architects are trained to convey water
safely without causing soil erosion. They can be found evaluating the efficacy of bioretention swales
and mitigating sediment buildup in our waterways. In addition, Landscape Architects can be found
“knee-deep” in coordination meetings with clients and the many related design professionals such as
architects, civil engineers, geo-technical engineers, regulatory municipalities, etc. It is common to find a
landscape architect serving their community by joining community advisory boards, state regulatory
boards, home owners’ associations, historical preservation committees, and volunteering to help write
the questions for the Landscape Architectural Registration Exam. For as much as Landscape architecture
is a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and health, welfare and safety discipline it is
creativity that brings many to the field. Landscape Architecture is a beautiful blend of science and art.
Many Landscape Architects are talented at hand sketching and computer graphic arts, while others use
their skills in the artful creation and implementation of our beloved 3-dimensional public art pieces that
help give our communities context and tie us together.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Landscape Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Landscape Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: COVID-19 has changed the playing field, and future skills will need to include creative ways to use materials and systems for enhanced infection control. This will consist of thinking differently about ventilation systems, space planning, and material specifications.
Randall Randall
Program Head Architecture, ProfessorUniversity of Idaho
Architecture Department
What hard/technical skills are most important for Landscape Architects?
Randall Randall: Adept with hand-drawing, model making, CAD, and graphics software (photoshop, illustrator). Experience with some kind of hands-on-making/construction is a plus.
Michael Brazley Ph.D.
Associate Professor of ArchitectureSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
School of Architecture
What general advice would you give to a Landscape Architect?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Work experience in an architect's office is best.
Robin Puttock
Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Visiting Assistant ProfessorThe Catholic University of America
School of Architecture and Planning
What Landscape Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Robin Puttock: My background is in sustainable civic architecture that supports wellbeing. Therefore, I would highly recommend earning certifications, if possible. I would recommend the LEED Green Associate and/or the WELL AP. In addition, NCARB's AXP hours can be quite flexible and can accommodate experience hours outside of the traditional architecture office.
If a student cannot find employment in an architecture firm working under a licensed architect, students have the option to earn AXP hours working for contractors, landscape architects, engineers, etc. As a bonus, they will receive a well-rounded internship experience. Finally, I would also recommend getting in touch with their local AIA chapters and plugging into continuing education opportunities and conferences. Knowledge and network connections gained in these outlets may prove quite useful in a future interview.
What general advice would you give to a Landscape Architect?
Robin Puttock: In addition to all of the above, I recommend students stay connected with their professors. Most of us have a vast network that we would love to invite you into. Often, an introduction is the pivotal component to a new opportunity. Relationships are key, especially when a recent graduate does not have significant professional experience. In addition, recent graduates should be sure to spend time on crafting their cover letters, their resumes, their work samples, and their portfolios. Make sure you are putting your best foot forward when an opportunity does arise.
What skills stand out on Landscape Architect resumes?
James Shields: Many interviews for architecture jobs remain online at the present time, so an ability to communicate via Zoom or Teams is vital. Looking professional on the small screen with an ability to show your work well are skills that can be practiced before an interview. Most architecture employees are currently working online from home, so knowledge of the essential digital architecture programs (like Revit, Bluebeam, Sketchup, et al) is currently very important. On resumes and in portfolios, any experience in the architecture sectors that have remained relatively stable (Housing, Master Planning, Science & Tech, Schools, sustainable infrastructure) should be emphasized. If you have no such experience, read up on current trends in these practice areas online and find some that interest you. Conveying such an interest can go a long way.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Landscape Architects to find work opportunities?
James Shields: Areas of the country that have been experiencing booming growth rates like North Carolina, Texas, and Colorado are expected to generate increased demand for architectural services as the pandemic is controlled. Look for cities whose growth rates top the US charts as you contemplate a location to settle after your time at the University, but don't be afraid to use the contacts you have already developed elsewhere as a rising economic tide raises all boats.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Landscape Architect job market given the pandemic?
Korydon Smith: To the above point, I anticipate growth in both the mainstream field of healthcare design (e.g., hospital design) and emergent fields at the intersection of architecture and health, such as renovating buildings to improve air quality, accommodate flexible functioning and spatial distancing, etc.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Landscape Architects to find work opportunities?
Korydon Smith: Architectural work tends to be in population centers. Architectural practice has become globalized, where many firms work in multiple cities in the U.S. and abroad. Growth in mid- and large-sized cities in the U.S. will continue; likewise for Europe and Asia. Latin America and Africa are emergent markets.
Christy Graves
Professor/Program ManagerSeminole State College of Florida
School of Engineering, Design and Construction
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Landscape Architect job market given the pandemic?
Christy Graves: From what I've seen, I believe job opportunities will continue to be available for architectural technology engineering graduates. While many industries have suffered from layoffs and unemployment during this pandemic, it seems that the built environment is still going strong. I think one of the biggest changes we may see is that once the pandemic is over, many employees are going to work remotely full-time, or the amount of time that was previously spent in the office environment will decrease.
What experience really stands out on Landscape Architect resumes?
Christy Graves: Software skills, such as AutoCAD and Revit.
What Landscape Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christy Graves: I'd suggest trying to get part-time work to enhance the skills that were taught while going to school. Students should contact the career development center at their respective schools for part-time work opportunities.
Clyde Eiríkur Hull
Professor of Strategic ManagementRochester Institute of Technology
Saunders College of Business
What type of skills will young Landscape Architects need?
Clyde Eiríkur Hull: Graduates entering the workforce now and in the future will need to be comfortable in a digital workplace. Working digitally, whether in an established company or as a digital entrepreneur, was a growing trend before the pandemic, but it was pushing against a lot of inertia. That inertia has switched. Anything that works better, for the employer, digitally instead of in person is going to stay. Even if you aren't working remotely, you'll deal with many people who are. Graduates will need to be more capable of independent work, whether in virtual teams or on their own. But at the same time, interpersonal skills are going to become more important. People aren't interacting as much as they did, so their human skills are rusting. Anyone with polished interpersonal skills is going to stand out more.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Landscape Architects to find work opportunities?
Clyde Eiríkur Hull: I'm told that the best cities for architects are Atlanta, Chicago, and West Palm Beach (see archinect.com), but look for the construction booms. Given trends, I'd suggest that sustainable architecture, in particular, is due to take off in a major way.
What type of skills will young Landscape Architects need?
A. Haven Kiers: While technological competency and hands-on experience will always be in demand within the profession of landscape architecture, more than any technical skills, young graduates will need a positive attitude and the drive to succeed. Because of the pandemic, employers are looking for graduates willing to take the initiative and tackle new projects with confidence and self-sufficiency.
New employees should be willing to take risks, be adaptable, and execute every task they are given to the very best of their abilities (even the boring ones). When faced with a design problem, they need to be able to think creatively, establish a good rapport with the client or community, test (and retest) a range of solutions, and to be able to do so with elegance and style. Technical skills can be learned on the job - the right attitude cannot.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Landscape Architects to find work opportunities?
A. Haven Kiers: While the San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, Washington, DC, and New York City always have and will continue to top the lists of landscape architecture hotspots; cities in the pacific northwest like Portland and Seattle are the new rising stars, attracting recent graduates from all over the country. Other niche markets attracting landscape architecture firms include Minneapolis, MN, Charlottesville, VA, and Austin, TX.
How do you envision technology impacting Landscape Architects in the next 5 years?
A. Haven Kiers: Technology has and will continue to play a significant role in the field of landscape architecture. 3D modeling, drone technology, and geographic information systems are increasingly integrated into even the smallest projects. While it will always be necessary for a landscape architect to demonstrate a concept with a quick sketch drawn by hand, technology will remain the primary source of both visual and written communication for the profession in the coming years.
Fred Hasler
John W. & Dorothy M. Burke Architectural Engineering ChairKansas State University
Department Architectural Engineering and Construction Science
What experience really stands out on Landscape Architect resumes?
Fred Hasler: Far and away, the experience that stands out on our students' resumes is their summer internships, where they get to work on structural, mechanical, or electrical buildings systems design. We are fortunate that most of our students have multiple summer internships before they graduate. A recurring theme that we hear from our industry employers is that our faculty's extensive, across-the-board industry experience makes our students highly sought for internships, which places them in a better position to hit the ground running in their careers when they graduate.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Landscape Architects to find work opportunities?
Ross Weinreb: Not that I am aware of. Our Penn State graduates generally find work in the Northeast (Philadelphia, New York, etc.).