Sometimes, removing a tree becomes a necessity. To make this activity highly effective, it is recommended that people hire tree removal experts rather than attempting to do it themselves. Starting a tree removal business is in high demand, and many professionals seek to utilize their skills in this field.
However, as a professional tree removalist, you must be well aware of the current market prices. Also, the tree removal cost must be reasonable for the client and offer you a satisfactory profit. Unfortunately, many arborists are unable to determine the cost that meets industry standards. If you are one of them, then keep reading our words here.
In your further reading journey, you will explore how to price tree removal, factors to consider, and how to provide an accurate tree service estimate.
📌 Key Takeaways
- The average cost range of tree removal is $250 to $2,500.
- The size, condition, accessibility, and local market price of the tree all affect the cost of tree removal.
- The price of tree removal also varies from company to company.
- The tree removal service charges also depend on the season and are usually cheaper during the winter season.
- The cost also depends on the number of people involved in the tree removal project.
💡Hard-Hitting Reality
Around 29.6 million hectares of tree cover were lost worldwide in 2024, according to a Statista report.
How to Price Tree Removal That Offers a Profit Margin?
The average cost of tree removal ranges from $250 to $2,500, depending on several factors. Here are the points that play a significant role in the pricing of tree removal:
Location Specifications
The site location at which you need to remove trees is crucial. That’s why it’s essential always to be aware of the type of location you’ll be working in. For instance, if the location is well-planned and easily accessible, the price will be lower. If the location is difficult to access, the cost will be higher.
Number of People Working
How many people are involved in the job? You must consider this. This is particularly important when considering how to charge for tree removal. The cost will be higher if more people are involved in the task. For example, a complex tree removal project will need more staffing and thus increase the cost.
Travel Prices
It’s crucial to consider the travel costs when determining your price for tree removal. Always include the fuel charges you spent on traveling to the location. Additionally, the price should be based on the site’s location and the current weather conditions. Obviously, for long distances, you need to pay a higher cost than the normal distance. Be transparent with your client about this type of pricing.
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Factor in Speciality Skills
When pricing your tree removal job, don’t overlook the specialized skills you possess in this profession. If you possess some extra knowledge and skills that differentiate you from your competitors, then it’s time to reassess your costs.
Mind it, when you upgrade your knowledge and gain skills, you can then hike your charges. However, never hike prices so much that it affects your customer base. Consider the market cost as well when creating a tree removal quote.
Price of Your Safety Gears
You utilize your safety gear and tools while cutting or trimming the tree. These will be the other factors you must consider when pricing your service. Most of the gears need to be replaced frequently, and to purchase them, you will need to factor in the cost of your service accordingly.
Covering Risk Factors
The job role of an arborist is a high-risk occupation, prone to damage and injury to both the person and property. For this reason, consider this a pricing factor, as you will need to opt for insurance coverage. Set your pricing strategy accordingly.
However, it is essential to establish transparent communication with your customers when considering this factor in your tree removal pricing strategy. Explain to your client the type of risk involved in your job.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Tree?
When calculating a tree service estimate, it is essential to consider several key factors. The cost of removing a tree depends on several factors. Here is the bifurcation of the tree removing cost according to those factors:
Type of the Tree
The cost of removing a tree depends on the type of tree being removed. Every tree has a different set of needs, and thus, the removal methods also differ. Trees with hardwood will require more effort, and this increases the cost.
Popular trees with their removal cost are as follows –
| Tree | Removing Cost |
|---|---|
| Palm | $200 to $900 |
| Maple | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| Pine | $250 to $1,500 |
| Poplar | $1,500+ |
Tree Condition
How much does tree removal cost? When you think over this question, the tree condition is another factor to consider. Dead and dried trees are often more difficult to remove than live trees. The reason is that dead trees have hardwood, making them difficult to cut and remove.
The cost is according to the tree location. If the tree stands alone with no adjacent trees, it will be relatively easy to remove. On the other hand, if the sick tree is among other trees, more pruning will be needed. This is because more efforts are needed to remove that tree.
State-Wise Tree Removal Cost in the USA
The cost of tree removal varies from state to state. Each state has different laws and permits for the same. Here is the average cost that a professional tree removal company can consider.
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Illinois | $550 to $750 |
| California | $650 to $1,300 |
| Georgia | $750 to $1,500 |
| Florida | $750 to $1,500 |
| Maine | $500 to $700 |
| Ohio | $800 to $1,400 |
| New York | $750 to $1,100 |
| North Carolina | $600 to $900 |
| Washington | $550 to $800 |
| Texas | $300 to $850 |
The cost of tree removal in rural areas is different from that in urban areas. Tree-removing companies are often located in urban areas, near the sites. This makes the service cost-effective for the city. However, the price for the same is $0.50 per mile for the travel or $50 to $200.
Tree Height
Tall trees require more effort and cost to remove them. Larger and taller trees require more labor, resulting in a higher cost of tree removal. Still, height is not the only factor to decide the price. The cost depends on the diameter of the trunk. The cost of a tall tree with a thin trunk will be cheaper than that of a short tree with a thick trunk.
The average cost of the tree height is as follows.
| Tree Height | Cost |
|---|---|
| 30 feet or shorter (shorter-sized tree) | $300 to $500 |
| 30 to 60 feet (medium-sized tree) | $600 to $1,000 |
| 60 to 80 feet (large-sized tree) | $1,500 to $3,000 |
Stump Removal
The stump remains on the ground after the tree is cut down. If a person doesn’t want this to remain, hiring a tree removal company is a good option. Average tree stump removal cost ranges from $175 to $516, including the removal of the roots.
Emergency Tree Removal
There is a premium cost for emergency tree removal cases. It is two to three times more costly than a normal tree removal service. The average cost of emergency tree removal is around $2,500 to $5,000. The reason behind this cost is the high risk involved.
Professionals must exercise caution when removing the fallen tree to prevent any additional damage to the property. Customers can check their insurance coverage, but that is only applicable when a fallen tree damages the property.
Additional Factors that Affect Tree Removal Cost
Debris Removal
Debris may remain there once the tree is removed. A tree removal company may include debris removal as part of their tree removal service. Some of the common ways to remove trees are as follows –
Hauling
The hauling method is a common task in the tree removal job. It might add $50 to $90 to the tree removal estimate.
Chipping
Chipper is a common method used by many tree removal companies. $65 and $125 is a typical range of chipping down the wood.
Splitting
A tree removal company can cut the debris into firewood for an additional fee, typically ranging from $50 to $90.
Tree Transplanting
The transplantation technique involves replacing the tree from one place to another. Professionals must exercise caution when performing this job. In this process, the cost will vary according to the tree’s size and the difficulty of removal. A standard cost for tree transplantation may include $175. On the other hand, $800 or more might be applicable for big trees.
Tree Pruning
Pruning is a different task from tree trimming. It involves removing the sick or weak parts of the tree. The cost of tree pruning ranges from $400 to $800. This cost also depends upon the tree height, condition, and site location.
Tree Trimming
Tree trimming works well when you don’t want to remove the entire tree and gives the perfect shape to its look. Professionals cut down some overgrown branches and give a perfect look. Many tree removal companies offer trimming services, trimming the tree based on its condition and the client’s specific needs. The typical cost of tree trimming is $315 to $700.
Multiple Tree Removal
When there is a need to clear an entire area with dense trees, clients need to pay by the acre. Typical pricing is from $500 to $2,500 per acre. If the area is highly dense, the price will be from $3,000 to $6,000 per acre. In this case, the price will also vary according to the location, tree condition, and scope of the project.
Permission for Tree Removal Service
Professionals are required to obtain permits to cut trees in certain areas. It is mandatory under local law. It is especially applicable when you need to remove a tree taller than 10 feet. The price range for such a permit is between $60 and $150.
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DIY Cost of Tree Removal
While it is not recommended that anyone attempt to remove the tree themselves, it is essential to hire professionals to handle this job. The main reasons are risk involvement in the task. A person can get injured or cause harm to any property.
There is a need for some equipment when the person removes the tree by himself. The prices for such equipment are as follows.
| Equipments | Cost |
|---|---|
| Work gloves | $14 |
| Safety Glasses | $13 |
| Hard hat | $28 |
| Hearing protection | $25 |
| Felling wedges | $24.50 per pack of 4 to 6 wedges |
| Steel-toe work boots | $100 |
| Chainsaw chaps | $71 |
| Chainsaw | $150 |
| Axe | $20 to $70 |
Cost of Professional Tree Removal vs Cost of DIY
It is often more cost-effective to hire tree removal specialists than to attempt the job yourself. If a person has no tools, it is obvious to purchase some tools that can cost around $400 to $450. Instead, the cost of hiring a professional for a small tree removal project ranges from $150 to $380.
Additionally, the DIY process is time-consuming as compared to a professional tree removal job. It may be risky for an individual to perform the job independently compared to the work of experienced professionals.
Tips to Follow While Removing a Tree
It is essential for professionals and individuals to take note of some of the tips listed below.
- Always pour water before removing a tree to soften the soil and make it easier to dig out the tree.
- Always keep watching the tree leaning.
- Do not remove the tree alone.
- Wear safety gear and use tools that are in good condition.
- Keep the spotter with you on the job. It is the spotter’s job to warn if the tree is leaning in the wrong direction.
- Cut the tree with a chainsaw in case you need to perform tree transplantation.
- Push the tree with your hands if it lies on the property.
Last Word
So here we end our story on pricing tree removal jobs. Performing a tree service estimate is not a simple task, but it can still be simplified. You can win the project estimation game by conducting thorough inspections and addressing all cost-impacting factors. Additionally, considering estimation software is also another benefit. Remember that a precise estimate is the key to unlocking success for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is the Best Tree Removal Estimate Template?
What Factors Affect Tree Removal Prices?
What Is the Average Profit Margin for Professional Tree Removal Services?
What Is the Formula for Calculating a Tree Height?
Jayanti Katariya is the founder & CEO of Moon Invoice, with over a decade of experience in developing SaaS products and the fintech industry. He holds a degree in engineering. Since 2011, Jayanti's expertise has helped thousands of businesses, from small startups to large enterprises, streamline invoicing, estimation, and accounting operations. His vision is to deliver top-tier financial solutions globally, ensuring efficient financial management for all business owners.
