How much does tree removal cost?

Figures above include equipment and labor costs for tree removal. Source: Xactware.

As you can see, the cost to cut down a tree and remove a stump can vary greatly. This is because many factors go into tree removal prices. For example, the type of tree, its trunk and canopy size, and its overall condition can influence costs. Professionals also have to account for the cost of labor and equipment. With so many factors to consider, estimating your tree removal costs can be confusing.

This guide makes it easier to calculate your tree removal costs. Keep reading to see the cost of removing small and large trees, the cost of labor and materials, and stump grinding costs. You'll also understand the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional tree removal. Let's begin.

Knowing the average cost of tree removal, including stump removal cost, is crucial for homeowners planning their budget. 

Large tree removal cost.

Here's a look at how much it costs to cut down large trees.

Live oak trees are large trees that can be costly to cut down. 

Figures above include equipment and labor costs for tree removal. Source: Xactware.

The average cost range for large tree removal is $976-$4,117. A tree with a trunk size or diameter of 24 to 36 inches typically qualifies as a large tree.

The second measurement you may need is the size of the tree's canopy. The larger the canopy, the higher the tree removal cost.

The average price to remove a large tree with a canopy size greater than 30 feet across is $1,562-$4,117. Removing a tree with a canopy that's 30 feet or less across costs an average of $976-$2,573.

Small tree removal cost.

We've reviewed how much it costs to remove large trees, but what about smaller trees? Naturally, removing a tree with a smaller diameter and canopy is cheaper.

Japanese maple can be considered small trees that are typically less expensive to remove.  

Figures above include equipment and labor costs for tree removal. Source: Xactware.

The national average cost to remove a tree with a trunk under 12 inches in diameter is $226-$946. For a mid-sized tree with a trunk diameter that's 12 to 24 inches, the average price is $517-$2,132.

Equipment and labor costs to remove a tree.

The size and location of a tree will determine the amount of labor, specialized equipment, and machinery required for removal. Heavy-duty machinery may be necessary for some trees.

Some large trees require a crane for removal, which could increase the total costs. 

Source: Xactware

The national average equipment cost to remove a tree is $155-$363. For labor, it's $257-$2,476.

Stump grinding costs.

Stump grinding uses machinery to grind down the tree stump until all that's left is mulch and sawdust. Unless you want to repurpose the stump and turn it into something like a birdbath or planter, grinding is a service worth considering.

Photo credit: Pacific Coast Stump Grinding LLC

Figures above include equipment and labor costs for tree removal. Source: Xactware

Remember to factor in stump grinding or stump removal when looking for estimates. On average, stump grinding costs anywhere from $33-$264, depending on the tree's size.

If you want to remove the stumps, ask a professional for advice and estimates on different stump removal methods.

Removing a tree can be expensive due to the labor, equipment, and safety risks involved. "In our line of tree service, labor/technicality typically costs more than materials," says Brandon Nelson, the operations manager at Northern Craft Tree Solutions in Graham, Washington.

He explains that one of the most costly factors is the size of the tree. Professionals will also determine if there are any potential targets to avoid that may require more technical rigging systems. And what's the overall condition and health of the tree?

The bottom line: The smaller the tree and the less dangerous it is to cut it down, the less you'll pay.

"There are multiple factors involved in creating an estimate for tree service," says Brandon. "A few might be the number of trees being worked on, the type of work to be performed, the overall condition of the tree, and the potential hazards/targets to avoid within the strike zone of the tree(s)."

Let's look at the key factors that affect the cost of cutting down and removing a tree from your yard.

Tree size and accessibility. Trees with wider and taller trunks will require more effort and time to remove, increasing the cost. 

Also, if the tree is located in an area that's difficult to access or contains hazards, the removal process might be more complicated, adding to the cost.

Tree type. Are you trying to remove pine trees? Palm trees? Oak trees? Trees come in all shapes and sizes, and (as you already know) size can significantly impact the price.

"Smaller dwarf trees may be more affordable than your much larger height and width species of trees," says Brandon. For example, removing a small lace leaf maple typically costs less than a tall, broad, big leaf maple tree. 

Photo credit: Northern Craft Tree Solutions

Number of trees. The more trees you need to cut down, the more labor and time it will take to complete — and the more you'll pay for tree removal services.

Tree condition and health. Diseased or damaged trees may pose a higher risk during removal, necessitating specialized equipment and techniques, thus increasing the cost. Brandon says a tree with severe decay requires a team "to utilize specialty rigging systems to remove the tree safely."

Equipment and delivery fees. Professionals will also need to account for the cost of obtaining and delivering certain types of equipment, says Bret Douglas, owner of Iron Clad Landscape Management in Orange City, Florida.

“If you rent a large 4x4 tree lift that's capable of reaching 120-150 feet, it has to be delivered on an 18-wheeler,” explains Bret. “That delivery fee is sometimes around $450 alone.”

Chippers for large trees can also be “extremely expensive to operate,” says Bret. Large oaks often require a chipper that can eat up to a tree with a 24-inch diameter.

Local regulations. Local regulations and the tree's location can impact the cost. Some regions have specific guidelines or permits for tree removal, which can add to the total tree removal cost.

Additionally, extra precautions and coordination with local authorities may be necessary if the tree is near power lines or in a populated area.

Pro tip: Always ensure you're legally allowed to remove a tree. If your tree has historical significance or is protected, experts may consider it a heritage tree. Check with your local government to find out if you need a permit to remove a tree.

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Is the cost of tree and stump removal too high for your budget? Let's explore ways the best DIY-friendly tasks and reasons to hire a professional instead. 

DIY tree removal ideas.

In some cases, you can save money by taking on specific DIY tasks.  For example, you can:

• Cut down smaller, healthy trees yourself. "If the tree possesses no risk to one's health and home, then I see no reason to be opposed to someone removing the smaller tree themselves," says Brandon.
• Do the wood chipping yourself. You may want to hire a professional to cut down the tree, but once it's cut down, don't pay for someone to cut the wood into smaller pieces. Do it yourself.
• Compost the wood and leaves. You can eliminate the cost of having someone remove the lumber, branches and leaves. Compost the smaller twigs and leaves, and use a chipper to create mulch for your garden.
• Take on the task of killing or removing the stump yourself. You can dig it out, use chemicals, and try other tactics to remove your stump without paying someone.

When to hire a tree removal professional.

However, DIY may not be the safest and most logical step for the entire process. Consider the following reasons to hire a professional instead:

• Avoid injury to yourself and damage to your home. "Serious damage to one's health or home is extremely possible," says Brandon. "It only takes one thing to go wrong with Mother Nature's large, beautiful trees that could result in paying the ultimate cost."
• The tree has some decay. A tree may look sturdy and strong, but hidden decay may exist. When a tree has decayed, it may behave unpredictably when you cut it, and it falls — which can be extremely risky.
• It's hard to make a tree fall in a specific spot. It's difficult to dictate where a tree may fall. Avoid damaging your roof, deck, shed, or fence by having a pro cut down your tree.
• You need special equipment. You'll typically need "ropes, harnesses, specialty safety/rigging equipment, carabiners, chainsaws, chippers, and more," says Brandon.

It can be difficult to determine when the best time for tree removal is. The biggest indicator that it's time to cut down your tree is if it's unhealthy. If the tree is unhealthy or in a bad condition, removing it can be dangerous. Rot, dead branches, a significant lean, and other signs of decay can also indicate your tree is unstable.

"Signs of decay are an immediate reason to reach out to a tree professional to consider removing the tree," says Brandon. "Some of these signs may be visible fungus on the truck or around the base of the tree, punky exposed cavity areas on the truck, and dying from the top down."

Sometimes, you may need to cut down branches or the entire tree. Consult an arborist or tree removal professional if you notice the following:

• The tree is hurting your home's appearance. Overgrown or poorly maintained trees may obstruct views, block natural light, or interfere with utility lines, affecting your property's aesthetic and value. Sometimes, you need to trim your branches instead of removing the entire tree. But if you have an old stump in your front yard, consider getting it removed.
• The tree is threatening power lines or other structures. If the tree can damage power lines, your roof, windows, and other structures, you may need to trim back the branches or consider removal. 
• Your tree has a thick canopy and severe weather is on the way. If you live in an area that experiences hurricanes, take a look at your trees’ canopies. If they’re too thick, consider hiring a professional to trim it down to avoid the strong winds uprooting your tree. 
• The tree's roots are damaging your property (plumbing, foundation, etc.). Tree roots can sometimes be invasive and damage your plumbing pipes and foundation. To determine the best solution, you'll need to call a plumber, foundation specialist, and/or an arborist.

The best (and cheapest) time to cut down a tree depends on where you live. For example, companies in the Northwest may need to factor in the weather conditions as the seasons change.

"Wind, tree fibers in the colder weather, slick wet trees from ice, rain, snow, and lightning are a few factors we pay attention to on our end," says Brandon.

If weather conditions pose a greater safety risk or complicate the tree removal process, you may experience additional costs.

There's no time like now to start your tree removal project. Download the Thumbtack app today and start contacting professionals. Ask for free cost estimates, and choose a tree removal company with good ratings and a fair price.