How Much Does It Cost to Cut Down & Remove a Tree?

Tree Removal Cost

Height ranges vary by pro, but often use three categories: small (under 30 feet), medium (30 to 60 feet) and tall (over 60 feet). You’ll pay double when adding in cleanup, stump removal and landscaping.

Other factors that can affect the price include:

• Tree species: Different species grow to differing heights, create complex trunk systems and have varying numbers of limbs with different densities. Some cities and states protect certain species, meaning more red tape to remove.

• Overhead, local tax and licensing requirements: You’ll pay more in heavily regulated areas with high costs of living.

• Accessibility and Complexity: Are there power lines, fences or other buildings near it? How much space does your pro have to work?

Other factors that affect removal costs include the tree's condition, diameter and location.

Average Cost of Tree Removal

Tree Removal Cost Near You

Cost Estimator by Size

Many tree removal companies charge per tree height ranges:

• Small (under 30 feet): $200–$450

• Medium (30-60 feet): $420–$1,200

• Large (60-80 feet): $800–$1,500

• Extreme (80 feet and over): $1,000–$2,000

"Make sure that whoever you hire is certified and properly trained. You don't want to just deal with a company that says, 'I've been doing it for 20 years, trust me.' Maybe they've just gotten lucky. They should be certified arborists, members of tree care associations where they demand certifications and training."

- Douglas Kantrowitz, Certified Arborist, Clear Voice Tree Service, Delanson, NY

Most tree removal services use this size range as guidelines for charging but also include other factors such as location, power lines and accessibility to help determine total project costs. Taller trees tend to run more per foot because of accessibility. It’ll take more time and equipment to climb and cut down taller trees because of the potential for damage to surrounding buildings, property, and public utilities. For a more accurate estimate, contact a tree removal company near you.

Large Trees

Large trees, those roughly 60 to 80 feet tall, cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 or more. Tall trees require more work, space and often heavier equipment. It’s costly, but you might need to remove them for various reasons, including:

• Disease or pests

• Damage from a storm

• Proximity to a power line or plumbing pipes

It's dangerous to remove large trees—always hire a professional. They’ll start by removing all the limbs then cutting the trunk down in sections. In some locations, you’re not allowed to do this without a license, due to liability from damaging property.

Crane-Assisted Tree Removal

Removing an extremely tall tree over 80 feet tall costs $1,000 to $2,000. If it requires a crane, expect to add $500 to that. Daily crane rentals cost $200 to $500 plus another $50 to $100 for the operator depending on size and type.

They are the most complicated to remove because of factors like:

• Power lines

• Plumbing pipes

• Professionals having to use rope and climbing equipment

• Time and labor involved in felling the tree

Some species of trees—American ash, bur oak, maples—can reach over 100 feet tall and are the hardest to remove.

Small Trees

The cost to remove a small tree under 30 feet tall is $200 to $450 on average. They require less time and equipment. Removing it isn't that difficult but transplanting a tree adds an additional $300 to $800, depending on if you need to transport it off-site.

Medium Trees

The average cost to remove a medium tree is $300 to $1,000 and varies by height, which could range anywhere between 30 and 60 feet. You'll pay additional expenses like removing the stump, getting rid of any debris—branches, leaves, etc.—and cleanup. When you speak to the professional, ask about whether they're charging per tree or per hour.

Tree Removal Price by Type

Tree removal costs depend more on height and complicating factors than the type. However, the type of tree dictates how tall it’ll grow at full maturity. Here’s a guide to identifying types of trees.

Pine Tree

Pine tree removal costs $250 to $1,500 or more. As with any species, it’s mostly height-dependent. The average price to remove a pine tree is around $400 if the tree is 40 feet tall, but the 80-foot pine trees will cost about $1,500 because of the work and potential danger involved.

Palm Tree

Palm tree removal costs $200 to $1,500 depending on how tall it is and if there are any complicating factors, like power lines or nearby buildings. The average cost to remove a palm tree is about $200 to $500 or more to remove if their height is 30 feet. If they're 80 feet tall or more, you might spend $1,100 to $1,500 to have the tree professionally felled.

Oak Tree

Since it reaches up to a height of 100 feet, the average cost to remove an oak tree is approximately $200 to $2,000. Oak, like any other species, costs more the taller it is. However, Oak can quickly reach heights of 60 to 100 feet, meaning you can expect to pay $800 to $2,000 on average.

Dead Tree

Removing a dead tree that’s still standing costs the same as any other, or $200 to $2,000. They’ll use the same pricing and processes as a living tree. If it’s already fallen over, it only costs $75 to $150. A pro simply comes, cuts it up or mulches it and hauls it away, often to resell the wood.

Dead or dying trees in an urban environment are a hazard and, if one falls, the owner can face a fine for neglecting the tree. Most tree removal services don't consider dead trees any different from a living tree when it comes to removal regardless of size.

Cost to Cut Down a Tree

Cutting down a tree costs $750 on average. But you might spend anywhere from $200 to $2,000 depending on the tree’s size and height. Its size is the largest factor with smaller trees at 20 to 60 feet averaging $400 to $1,200 and larger ones of 60 feet or more costing $1,500 or more. This price doesn’t include tree or stump removal.

Tree Felling Cost Factors

There is no one size fits all pricing model for cutting down a tree. While its height gives you a good starting point, other factors come into play, namely:

• Condition

• Diameter

• Location

• Accessibility and Complexity

• Emergencies

• Number of Trees

Condition

Trees in precarious conditions of rot or neglect might need additional supports put in place prior to removal. Trees in dangerous conditions are often inspected by an arborist, a person with special training in the health and care of trees, shrubs and other woody plants. Inspect dangerously leaning trees before removal to determine how to cut them down. Factors that can affect the condition of a tree include:

• History: Care, recent construction near the roots and some landscaping activities can adversely affect the stability of the tree.

• Lean: Not all trees grow up straight. A slight lean in a trunk is expected, but a significant lean, especially when combined with exposed roots and cracked ground on one side, indicates a serious stability problem.

• Multiple Trunks: Some trees will split into two or more trunks. If they are weakly attached, they could crack and fall during removal.

• Weak Branches: A branch with a tight V-shaped connection at the trunk is more prone to cracking and breaking, making for a more hazardous condition.

• Diseases/Ailments: Cavities, decay and other tree diseases and ailments can seriously compromise the structural integrity of the tree, making for weak spots that could affect the tree removal process.

Diameter

Tall, skinny trees might present a problem for a pro to climb and delimb. They’ll often need some type of mechanical assistance to reach the upper branches, meaning a higher cost. However, thicker trees can take more time to take down, meaning more time spent on the project which may increase the price. It’ll vary from project to project so always speak with a professional.

Location

"The biggest impact on the cost is the location of the tree and amount of material that's hauled away. It usually takes one to two days. The cost really varies. It's a minimum of $400 to $2,000 depending on the size of the tree."

- Rob Alderson, Owner, Alderson Tree Service, Spokane, WA

Living in a remote area is nice for peace and quiet, but a tree removal service will charge extra for travel. This varies widely, so it's impossible to give an idea of the cost. Most types of professionals that come to a home have a service area, within which they don’t charge extra for travel. But if you live outside that area, they may charge a mileage fee around $0.50 per mile or a flat rate of $50 to $200 extra.

Accessibility and Complexity

Inaccessible trees increase the price by 25% to 50%. Cutting down a tree sitting comfortably away from any structures or power lines takes less time and preparation than a tree right next to your house or with power lines weaving through the branches. Many places require a certified lineman or utility company to handle anything dealing with the power lines.

• Trees close to structures need the branches lowered by rope instead of just being cut loose.

• Densely packed trees complicate thinning.

• Accessing the job site also complicates the project. Accessing trees in open areas and front yards rarely presents a problem but closed off areas might increase the price.

Additional Tree Removal Services

Fallen Tree Removal Costs

The average price to remove a fallen tree is about $75 to $150 depending on the size and species of the tree. You might pay additional costs to have the pieces hauled away.

Wood Chipping and Logging Prices

Many tree removal services include chipping and removal in their estimate, but you should ask anyway.

• Chipping: The cost of chipping averages from $65–$150.

• Removal: Hauling away limbs can add an extra $50 on average.

• Log splitting: Splitting the logs for firewood costs an additional $25 to $75 per tree.

Cost to Move Tree

Moving a tree costs anywhere $400 to $750 for a professional service to move a small tree. Medium and large trees might cost anywhere from $700 to $2,000.

FAQs

How much to cut down a tree and remove a stump?

Tree stump removal costs $150 to $500 on average. So, cutting down and removing a tree and the stump would range from $550 to $1,700 on average.

How you are charged depends on the number of stumps and the pricing practices of the service. Other factors that could affect the price include the age of the stump, the condition of the soil, the root system, and the hardness of the wood. Here are some examples of some general costs, not including cleanup:

• Diameter: Most tree removal services charge about $2 to$3 per inch. Some have a minimum charge of around $100.

• Per Stump: Some tree removal services charge a set amount for the first stump, around $150 for example, and a lower rate for each additional stump, such as $50.

• Clearing Land: Occasionally, a pro charges by $100 to $150 per hour if you have a huge number of stumps near each other.

How do I get rid of trees for free?

If your tree is easy to access and there aren’t any local codes against cutting it down, you can cut it down yourself or find someone who is looking for firewood or trees for wood chips to come remove the tree. But this comes with a couple major drawbacks:

• If any damage happens, you’ll shoulder the liability.

• You don’t know if they have the experience or tools to get the job done correctly.

Always check with your local code enforcement office or a local tree service about licensing and restrictions first. “Free” might end up costing you far more than hiring a professional.

Can you remove a tree yourself?

In some places, you can remove a tree yourself, particularly if it’s under a certain height, usually 20 to 30 feet. However, if you cut a tree down and cause any property damage or damage to utilities, you’re responsible for the damages and may even face fines.

Do tree removal companies sell the wood?

It really depends on the company. Many do not, they simply mulch it up and haul it to a yard waste facility.

Do you need a permit to remove a tree?

In some places, you do need a permit to remove a tree while others permit the professionals, who can then remove trees without further permits.

What is cutting down trees called?

Cutting down trees is called “felling” a tree or tree removal.

Is it OK to cut down trees?

It’s okay to cut some trees down. In many areas, some trees are protected species or have historical value. Check with our local tree service or arborist before cutting anything down.

Should I trim, prune or cut down my tree?

Tree trimming helps with aesthetics. Pruning focuses on the health of the plant. Non-invasive and applied to the smaller branches, it is usually used to allow more sunlight or water through the branches. Tree trimming costs $75 to $1,500 depending on the size of the tree with an average between $200 and $800.