Professional tree removal services cost between $820 and $992 or more, depending on the tree’s size, location, and type. While trees enhance your yard’s appearance, some can create serious risks to your and your property’s safety, especially when invasive roots crack driveways or damage foundations.
This guide outlines what you need to know before starting a tree removal project, along with key factors that affect costs.
Key Takeaways
- Professional tree removal services generally cost between $820 and $992, with an average cost of $906 depending on the tree’s size, location, and type.
- Tree size is the biggest cost factor, with smaller trees under 30 feet costing $150–$450 to remove, while trees over 80 feet can cost $1,000–$2,000.
- Emergency tree removal can cost up to $5,000, but homeowners insurance may offer coverage if the tree falls as the result of a covered condition like windstorms.
What Is the Cost of Removing a Tree?
The average cost to remove a tree from your property is $906. However, the exact price you pay will depend on multiple factors, such as tree size and type. Bigger trees generally cost more to remove than smaller ones. The table below shows the general price ranges of tree removal services based on tree size.
| Tree Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 30 feet or less | $150–$450 |
| 30–60 feet | $450–$1,200 |
| 60–80 feet | $800–$1,500 |
| 80 feet or more | $1,000–$2,000 |
Note: The cost data in this article was sourced from Homewyse, an online database focused on home improvement projects, and Angi, unless otherwise specified.
What Factors Affect Tree Removal Costs?
Tree size and type affect removal prices the most, but a few other factors also play a role in what you’ll pay. Learn more in the sections below.
Tree Size
The size of the tree is the biggest factor affecting tree removal costs. Large trees—such as those over 30 feet tall—typically cost more to remove than smaller ones because they require specialized equipment, are riskier to remove, and produce more material waste.
Note that the height of the tree isn’t the only dimension professionals evaluate. They also factor in the thickness of the tree’s trunk. Trees with thicker trunks will cost more to remove because there is more material to cut through. In addition, trees with multiple trunks will cost more due to their complexity.
Tree Type
Another major factor affecting tree removal costs is the type of tree. Hardwood trees, including maple and oak varieties, can take longer and require additional equipment to remove than their softwood counterparts, such as spruce trees.
The table below shows general price ranges based on common tree types.
| Tree Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Ash tree | $250–$1,800 |
| Aspen tree | $1,000–$1,800 |
| Cedar tree | $250–$1,500 |
| Maple tree | $250–$2,000 |
| Oak tree | $200–$2,000 |
| Palm tree | $650–$1,500 |
| Pine tree | $250–$1,500 |
Another consideration tree removal companies make is the branch structure and root systems of a tree. Tree varieties with extensive root systems will take longer to remove fully, as will complicated branching patterns.
Tree Condition
The condition of the tree is another factor that affects the cost of tree removal. Healthy trees generally won’t cause price hikes because a professional can remove them safely and without additional effort.
Denny Wiggers, a landscape contractor featured on the This Old House Magazine “Kitchen and Bath” issue, recommends removing healthy trees only if they are dangerously close to your home, block critical sunlight, and have many surface roots. “Such trees topple more easily when there are strong winds, and they’ll choke out other vegetation [in your yard] over time.”
On the other hand, diseased or damaged trees can be more expensive to remove because they could be in a challenging position to remove. Fallen trees in an open area are the most affordable to remove since the tree removal company doesn’t have to cut them down.
Number of Trees
Expect to pay more for tree removal services if you want to remove multiple trees rather than just one. The amount you pay will depend on the tree removal company that you hire. However, we suggest negotiating with your provider to see if they’ll offer a reduced rate for removing several trees in one job.
Tree Stump Removal
Tree removal doesn’t always include the stump. If you want the stump ground down or completely removed, this is typically an extra service. Stump removal can become tricky because it requires specialized machinery and additional time, especially if the roots are extensive or deeply embedded.
Emergency Tree Removal
When a tree suddenly falls on your home’s porch, or if your tree leans dangerously close to your home, you’ll need to remove it before it causes further damage. Emergency tree removal pricing can vary based on the situation and the removal specialist you hire, but we found that it can cost up to $5,000.
However, your homeowners insurance may cover part or all of the cost of removing the tree on your property. We suggest checking with your insurance provider before paying for this service out of pocket.
Other Tree Removal Costs
We found that the cost of tree removal doesn’t depend solely on the tree itself. Other factors, like the tree’s location, can increase what you pay. Below, we talk about a few additional costs to consider when planning for this project.
The price you pay to remove your tree can depend on how easy it is for a tree removal crew to access the tree. If the tree is in your backyard and there’s no direct path for equipment, workers may need to use manual tools or climb the tree instead of using machinery. Similarly, a tree located on a steep slope or in a hard-to-reach area may require additional effort and equipment, increasing the overall cost.
The location of the tree on your property significantly impacts the cost. If the tree is close to your house, power lines, fences, or other structures, removing it becomes more complex. Professionals need to take extra precautions to avoid damaging nearby property, which can require specialized equipment or additional crew members. On the other hand, if the tree is in an open area with plenty of space, the job is usually quicker and cheaper.
In some areas, you may need a permit to remove a tree, especially if it’s large or considered a protected species. Check with your local government or homeowner’s association to see if this applies to you. The professional you hire will typically add the cost permits and any compliance fees to the overall expense of the project.
Signs You Should Remove a Tree
You may be wondering whether or not to remove a tree on your property. It’s essential to recognize the warning signs—failing to remove a problem tree from your home may lead to expensive repairs if it falls on your home’s structure or property. Here are several clear indicators that a tree needs to be assessed and potentially removed:
- Damaged roots: Exposed, damaged, or decaying roots can weaken a tree’s stability. If construction work, soil erosion, or heavy machinery has disturbed the tree’s roots, it’s likely not securely anchored to the ground.
- Dead or dying tree: If the tree has no leaves during the growing season or its branches are brittle and snap easily, it could be dead or dying. A tree in this condition poses a safety risk, as it can fall unexpectedly.
- Leaning tree: Your tree may be at risk of falling if it’s leaning significantly, especially if the lean has developed suddenly. Pay close attention to trees leaning toward your home, driveway, or other high-traffic areas.
- Pest infestations: Certain insects, like termites or carpenter ants, can weaken your tree’s wood and cause additional damage. Look for small holes in the bark, sawdust-like residue at the base, or visible insects.
- Proximity to structures or utilities: If the tree is growing too close to your home, power lines, or other structures, you might need to remove it to prevent potential damage or power outages.
- Visible rot or decay: Look for mushrooms or fungi growing at the base of the tree. These often indicate internal decay. Cracks, hollow sections, or large cavities in the trunk are also signs that the tree’s structure may be compromised.
What To Watch For
- Deciduous trees that drop leaves earlier than similar trees in your home could be suffering from stress or an infection. We recommend having an arborist take a look at such trees to see if it’s worth saving.
DIY vs. Professional Tree Removal
Deciding whether to remove a tree yourself or hire a professional depends on the tree’s size, condition, and location, as well as your skills and equipment. While doing it yourself (DIY) might seem like a good idea to save money, it’s important to make sure you feel comfortable with the work before getting started.
Quick Tip
- We recommend requesting and comparing quotes from several local arborists. Seeing before-and-after photos can also help confirm they’re qualified for the job. “Call their former clients and ask if you can visit,” suggests Sandy Herbert, a homeowner featured in This Old House’s magazine.
Removing a Tree Yourself
First, assess your skill level and whether you’re comfortable handling trees. Smaller trees located in an open area far from structures, power lines, or fences are typically manageable with hand tools like a handsaw or chainsaw. Additionally, you can safely direct their fall without endangering property.
However, you’ll still need to ensure you wear protective gear, work carefully, and have a plan for disposing of the tree and branches. Attempting to remove a large or hazardous tree on your own could lead to serious injuries, property damage, or even fines if you accidentally hit a power line.
Using a Professional for Tree Removal
For larger trees or those near your home, power lines, or other hazards, hiring a professional is often the safer and smarter choice. Professionals have the training, experience, and specialized equipment to handle these risks. They know how to cut trees in sections to control their fall and prevent accidents.
While hiring a professional costs more upfront, it can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes. Professionals also ensure they complete the tree removal job safely.
Is Professional Tree Removal Worth It?
While tree removal done by a professional can be pricey, we believe it’s the right choice for numerous reasons. Tree removal is unsafe if you don’t know what you’re doing, and hiring a professional can limit the safety risks involved in this project.
A professional tree removal company can ensure that they don’t damage your home and landscaping, saving you money on repairs. Additionally, pros can complete the removal process quickly and efficiently and leave the surrounding area free from tree trimmings or materials.
Pro Tip
- Waiting to remove a tree on your property may allow rot to take hold to the point a tree company will refuse to put a worker in it, according to a past issue of This Old House’s magazine. Once you notice signs of a dying tree, it’s important to take action as soon as possible.
FAQs About Tree Removal Costs
Why are trees so expensive to remove?
Tree removal is expensive because it is time-intensive and potentially risky. Professionals need proper equipment and training to safely and efficiently remove trees, whether big or small. In addition, some tree types can be difficult to remove due to their hard material or extensive network of roots.
Will my homeowners insurance cover tree removal?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies will cover tree removal, depending on the policy you buy and which insurance company you choose. For example, some insurers will pay for tree removal if it falls due to a covered condition, such as a windstorm. We recommend reviewing your policy to confirm what it will cover.
How long does it take to remove a tree?
Depending on the size and type of tree, tree removal can take as little as 15 minutes or as long as a few hours. Typically, professionals can complete the job in one day unless there are multiple trees to cut or the location is difficult to access.
Can I trim my tree instead of remove it?
You should trim your tree if it’s generally healthy but has overgrown branches, dead limbs, or needs shaping to improve its appearance. Trimming can encourage growth, prevent branches from interfering with power lines or your home, and keep the tree thriving. However, if the tree is diseased, severely damaged, leaning dangerously, or at risk of falling, removal is often the safer option. While trimming helps maintain a tree, removal becomes necessary when the risks outweigh the benefits of keeping it.
How We Determined Tree Removal Costs
To provide accurate and current pricing for tree removal services, we collected estimates from Homewyse, a platform used by contractors to generate costs for home improvement projects. We also gathered some pricing insights from Angi.
Our research provides a comprehensive overview of both national and local pricing. To better understand pricing, we requested or analyzed cost data based on the number of trees, their size, and type in several U.S. states. This allows our cost averages to reflect diverse homeowner needs across both urban and rural markets.
Prices shared in this guide represent the average cost of tree removal services based on our research at the time of publication. Actual costs may vary depending on factors such as location, service provider, tree size and type, and project scope.
