Gardener Salary UK
Gardeners and landscape gardeners in the UK earn a median salary of £27,057 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £23,023 and £30,571. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Gardeners and landscape gardeners” (SOC 5113).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £27,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For gardeners and landscape gardeners, £28,539 is the typical (median) pay. That is well below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -27% versus the national average. Experienced gardeners and landscape gardeners (top 25%) earn over £30,571.
About this role
Gardeners and landscape gardeners design, create and maintain gardens, parks, grounds and green spaces. They plant, prune, mow, build hard landscaping features and manage planting schemes for residential, commercial and public sector clients.
Key responsibilities
- Planting, pruning and maintaining plants, trees and shrubs
- Mowing lawns and maintaining turf areas
- Building patios, paths, walls and other hard landscaping
- Designing planting schemes and garden layouts
- Operating and maintaining garden machinery and tools
Qualifications and entry routes
RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) qualifications at Levels 2-3 are the industry standard. City & Guilds in horticulture and apprenticeships provide alternative routes. LANTRA certifications for specialist activities (chainsaw, pesticide application).
Career outlook
Steady demand for skilled gardeners and landscapers. Sustainable gardening, biodiversity planting and garden design are growth areas.
Key skills
Common industries
- Landscape contractors
- Local authority parks
- National Trust and heritage gardens
- Garden maintenance companies
- Self-employed gardening
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£23,023
0-2 years
Mid Level
£23,023
3-7 years
Senior
£30,571
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +33% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 11.6%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£1,482
Gardener salary: common questions
How much do gardeners and landscape gardeners earn in the UK?
Is £28,539 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for gardeners and landscape gardeners?
Have gardeners and landscape gardeners salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for gardeners and landscape gardeners?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.