10 Front Yard and Backyard Makeovers for $15,000 or Less

The design experts at Yardzen pulled together ten of their favorite Yardzen yards under $15,000. Many of these yards are organized around distinct “moments,” like a patio, fire pit, or entry way. Focusing on discrete areas of a landscaping project as part of a phased approach to the space is a great way to manage costs.

Pricing estimates reflect Yardzen’s extensive knowledge of landscaping pricing across the country and the expertise of our in-house landscape architect and contractor team.

Nashville, TN

This Nashville backyard reflects the vibrancy of the city with lush plantings of flowering shrubs, an arbor with bohemian hanging chairs, and a gravel patio for relaxing around the fire pit with a glass of whiskey.

Estimate: $13,800

• Lawn: $2,000
• Planting: $4,000
• Concrete Pavers: $1,000
• Gravel: $5,000
• String Lights: $300
• Fire Pit: $500
• Pre-Fab Arbor: $1,000

Sacramento, CA

A multi-functional backyard with space for dining, gathering, and relaxing around the fire pit.

Estimate: $15,000

• Planting: $2,000
• Lawn: $3,000
• Gravel: $5,000
• Pavers: $5,000

Austin, TX

This Austin yard is all about backyard fun! adapted and pollinator-loving plants surround a new stock tank pool with filter, pre-fab pergola, and dining area with concrete pavers below.

Estimate: $15,000

• Concrete Pavers: $3,000
• Bark Mulch: $1,000
• Pergola: $4,000
• Fire Pit: $1,000
• Stock Tank Pool: $4,000
• Planting: $3,000

Olivebridge, NY

A dreamy, modern Catskills cabin with cottage-styling, pollinator-loving plantings and gravel driveway.

Estimate: $14,000

• Planting: $5,000
• Gravel: $6,000
• Boulders: $1,500
• Lighting: $2,000

Charleston, SC

A classic home in Charleston that welcomes friends and family home with lush plantings and a stunning front porch.

Estimate: $12,000

• Planting: $6,000
• Mulch: $2,000
• Pavers: $4,000

Seattle, WA

This backyard in the Pacific Northwest sets the scene for long summer evenings outside!

Estimate: $15,000

• Planting: $5,000
• Lawn: $3,000
• Pavers: $6,500
• Fire pit: $500

Denver, CO

For these homeowners, a rustic patio and fire pit was a top priority, plus dense plantings for privacy and to create an “outdoor room.”

Estimate: $13,500

• String Light and Beams: $1000
• Fire Pit: $500
• Lawn: $4,000
• Planting: $4,000
• Stone Pavers: $4,000

Salt Lake City, UT

A contemporary backyard for a newly built home in the Beehive State!

Estimate: $14,000

• String Lights and Posts: $1,500
• Fire Pit: $500
• Lawn: $4,000
• Planting: $4,000
• Pavers: $4,000

Encinitas, CA

This social front yard in Encinitas, CA creates livable square footage in a previously unused area of water-guzzling lawn. Now, it features a seating area with a small section of lawn for the kids and dogs. (Learn more about the “New Lawn.“)

Estimate: $15,000

• Planting: $2,000
• Lawn: $2,000
• Gravel: $1,000
• Pavers: $10,000

Phoenix, AZ

A drought-tolerant front yard for a modern, newly built home in Phoenix. The landscaping features several native, climate-adapted, and pollinator loving plants.

Estimate: $15,000

• Landscape Lighting: $2,000
• Planting: $4,000
• Decorative Boulders: $1,000
• Concrete Pavers: $3,500
• Gravel: $4,500

Designing Your Dream Yard on a Budget with Yardzen

Looking to make improvements to your yard to help increase your outdoor enjoyment and property’s value? Yardzen is here to help.

Yardzen’s award-winning online landscape and exterior design is tailored to homeowners in all fifty states in the US, and can incorporate a broad range of amenities and outdoor styles.

Whether your goal is improving curb appeal, adding functional spaces, or giving the yard a full overhaul, we can create a design that meets your needs and style preferences.

Our design process begins with understanding your space, your aesthetic preferences, and a discussion of your budget and vision to minimize surprises when it comes time to build.

Our top-notch designers then develop a personalized vision for your yard, shared through 3D renderings, 2D plan drawings, and plant and material lists. Your design will capture the look, feel, and function you are hoping for, all while keeping costs within range.Once your design is complete, we’ll help you connect with a local contractor from our Pro Network of vetted professional landscapers to install your new design.