Based on 819 real quotes from businesses in United States.
$223
TYPICAL
$696
Yelp calculates estimated costs by gathering and analyzing real quotes provided to consumers by businesses on Yelp. Actual costs may vary.
Written by
Nick Cellucci
Reviewed by
Don Vandervort
Key takeaways
The typical cost of tree maintenance ranges from
Healthy trees can beautify your yard, add curb appeal, and reduce heating and cooling costs by providing shade and wind breaks. But sometimes, even the most well-placed, cared-for trees can fall victim to bad weather and pests. That’s why they require regular maintenance by a professional tree service, which can also provide emergency assistance if needed.
The most requested tree maintenance services by homeowners? Tree trimming and tree pruning, followed by tree and stump removal. Tree maintenance companies also perform other important work, including supporting weak branches, planting new trees, and managing the spread of tree pests and diseases.
This guide explains the wide range of costs associated with tree maintenance services. Cost data is based on project quote estimates provided to Yelp users by businesses on Yelp. Learn more about how we calculate these costs in the methodology section at the end of the guide.
The typical cost of common tree maintenance services in the US is $367 per project, according to Yelp data. But prices can vary widely, from $223–696 and beyond, depending on tree size, location, and type of job. Trimming an average-size tree, for example, typically costs $458. Removing and hauling away a large dead tree, like a sprawling oak, is a highly labor-intensive service that can exceed the top of the price range, and cost as much as $3,000+.
National range | $223–696 |
---|---|
Typical | $367 |
Low | $223 |
High | $696 |
Source: Yelp data (based on landscapers’ quotes for real-life projects)
Size is a major factor in pricing tree services, according to Ethan Grimmer, an International Society of Arboriculture (SA)-certified arborist and owner of Arbory Masters in Warsaw, North Carolina. “Larger trees that are close to structures will be more expensive. The farther away from structures, and the smaller they get, the cheaper it’ll be.”
Tree service companies are typically staffed by experts in this field—certified arborists and specialized landscapers. Some jobs, like trimming and pruning, are usually billed hourly—typically at $68 per hour, according to Yelp data. Fees range from $25–118 per hour across the US, based on distance to the work site and equipment required for the job.
Charges for tree and stump removal, on the other hand, tend to be flat fees based on number to be removed after an initial visit and property inspection. Size of the tree determines cost, since larger trees require more equipment and time to remove safely.
Tree maintenance services tend to be expensive, due to the need for specialized labor and risk of working at different heights. The following are some of the most common services provided by tree maintenance professionals, and their costs.
Tree maintenance service | Typical | Low | High |
---|---|---|---|
Tree trimming or pruning | $458 | $262 | $773 |
Tree trimming or pruning (with hauling) | $483 | $282 | $773 |
Tree removal | $750 | $386 | $1,372 |
Tree removal (with hauling) | $883 | $390 | $1,445 |
Stump grinding* | $320 | $150 | $550 |
Tree disease management | $345 | $191 | $978 |
Tree cabling | $455 | $259 | $643 |
Tree planting | $417 | $243 | $849 |
Sources: Yelp data (based on landscapers’ quotes for real-life projects); *Industry data
The typical cost of trimming an average-size tree is $458, according to Yelp data, but it can range from $262–$773 (or higher if the tree is especially tall or large). The goal of trimming is to tame unruly growth and enhance the physical health and appearance of the tree. Prices can vary based on the type and size of the tree, as discussed in the tables below. Hauling away debris adds a small additional cost to the project price.
The typical cost of pruning a tree is $458, according to Yelp data, but it can range from $262–$773. Pruning involves removing unnecessary branches to improve the overall safety and health of the tree. While the average pruning costs are the same as for trimming, prices can vary based on the extent of pruning needed. Hauling away debris adds a small additional cost to the project price.
“There are different types of tree pruning, like spikeless tree pruning,” explains Arbory Masters’ Grimmer. “You can pay a climber to go up without spikes and prune the tree so it has no markings. That type of service is more expensive.”
The typical cost of removing a tree is $458, according to Yelp data, but can range from $390–1,445. One of the more expensive tree maintenance services, tree removal is often required for dead or dying trees, trees that pose a risk to structures, or trees that are obstructing new construction. Costs are slightly higher when removal includes hauling away the felled tree. Homeowners with larger properties can avoid hauling and debris removal costs by doing it themselves.
Removing a tree stump typically costs $150–550 per tree. The cost of stump removal is an additional charge to consider when budgeting for tree removal. “Stump grinding usually costs between $200–400 extra per tree,” says Grimmer. But removing very large stumps with complex root systems or rocky surrounding soil can run as high as $800 per stump, he says.
You may be able to negotiate a lower cost per stump, even for large trees, if you’re removing multiple stumps at once.
The typical cost to treat a diseased tree is $345, according to Yelp data, but it can range from $191–978. To deal with disease or pest infestations, a tree trimming company can spray a tree or inject a treatment directly into the tree trunk. Treatment costs depend on the size of the tree or diameter of its trunk. These treatments are typically done either annually or once every 2 years.
Pro tip: “Make sure to get a tree pruned properly before it’s treated,” says Ethan Grimmer, owner of Arbory Masters. “A lot of treatment companies don’t do pruning and trimming because they specialize.”
The typical cost to cable a tree is $455, according to Yelp data, but it can range from $259–643. Tree cabling involves the use of high-strength cables to help support a tree’s weak branches. The cables hold branches in place to prevent breakage and bending, as well as to guide growth in a safe direction.
The typical cost of having a pro plant a tree is $417, according to Yelp data, but the service ranges in price from $243–849. Healthy tree growth starts with planting, and costs vary depending on the type and size of the tree and where it’s being planted. In addition to the cost of the tree, hiring a pro to plant a sapling in a 5-gallon container can cost about $80–90. Planting a medium-sized tree in a 15-gallon container will cost $260–280 for labor.
Trees under 30 feet high are considered small trees and can cost $90–425 to trim. Those reaching above 60 feet can cost $1,850 or more. Larger trees require more labor than shorter ones because there’s more to cut back. They also tend to have thicker branches and limbs than smaller ones.
Tree size | Tree height | Cost range |
---|---|---|
Small | Under 30 feet | $90–425 |
Medium | 30 to 60 feet | $155–780 |
Large | Over 60 feet | $350–1,850+ |
Source: Industry data
The cost of tree trimming also depends on the kind of tree. There are hundreds of different tree species in the US, so trimming costs vary widely. For example, trimming a palm tree, which has less foliage, costs $190-900, while trimming back a pine tree, which can grow hundreds of feet tall, ranges from $320–$2,375.
Here are some common tree types and their typical maintenance costs.
Tree type | Cost range |
---|---|
Crepe myrtle | $110–250 |
Palm | $160–900 |
Cypress | $250–950 |
Pine | $320–2,375 |
Oak | $210–3,375 |
Source: Industry data
Trimming a crepe myrtle, one of the least expensive trees to trim, typically costs $110–250. While this tree has a complex multi-trunk system, it’s also a relatively small tree species that only grows to a manageable 15–25 feet tall and 6–15 feet wide. As a result, maintenance tends to be more affordable.
The cost of trimming a palm tree averages $160–900. Although they can grow up to 80 feet high, palm trees cost less to maintain because they don’t have branches. Instead, palm trimming involves the removal of dead fronds and other plant matter from the trunk. “The only time a palm tree gets expensive is when it’s really tall and leaning over a structure,” says Grimmer.
Trimming a cypress tree typically costs $250–950. One of the tallest tree species commonly found in residential yards, this species grows to 40–100 feet high. Since branches are dense but thin, maintenance costs are slightly lower than for other large trees.
Trimming a pine tree ranges from $320–2,375. Although some grow hundreds of feet tall, average heights range from 50–100 feet tall, with a width of 20–40 feet. This variation means maintenance costs differ greatly.
The average cost to trim an oak tree ranges from $210–3,375. One of the most common tree species in the eastern US, oak trees feature thick branches that sprawl in all directions. Depending on their age, they can grow up to 15–80 feet tall and 30–100 feet wide. For these reasons, oak trees can be among the most expensive and dangerous trees to trim.
Aside from the type of trees you have, several other issues affect tree trimming costs.
The biggest factor affecting the cost of tree maintenance: Large or tall trees require additional time and specialized equipment to trim or remove safely. As a result, you’ll pay more to remove larger trees.
Many tree service pros charge per tree for trimming services. For each additional tree you have to maintain, the more you’re likely to pay for the total job. But while you’ll pay for each tree that is trimmed, the tree service company may offer a slight discount for multiple trees, because it’s easier to do the work when their crews and equipment are on site.
A tree’s placement and accessibility on your property will affect maintenance costs. For example, one next to a home or power line will require additional precautions to ensure no falling branches cause damage. This takes more labor and may involve additional equipment, especially if there isn’t enough space for a bucket truck. In either case, expect hard-to-reach trees to increase maintenance costs.
A tree service professional can advise about when it’s the right time to trim trees on your property. In most cases, tree trimming and pruning is best done while the tree is in a dormant state. That’s also when the company will be busiest, so reserve time well beforehand.
Deciduous trees. Late fall into winter is a good trimming time. The leaves are gone, making trimming easier—and while the tree may become stressed from excessive trimming or pruning, there are fewer pests and pathogens around to harm the tree.
Flowering trees. Trim those that bloom in the spring, such as dogwoods and crabapples, once flowers have faded. Trees that bloom in the summer or fall, such as crape myrtles, should be trimmed in late winter into early spring.
Evergreens. Most evergreens benefit from trimming in early spring before new growth starts. Don’t wait until late spring or early summer, because the tree is weakened from forming new foliage.
Diseased, damaged, and dead branches and limbs should be removed immediately, without causing damage to the tree. Leaving them in place could affect the tree’s overall health.
Tree health is often directly related to tree stability. Trees damaged or killed by weather, lightning, pests, or disease could be dangerous and may require more full removal, which is costlier than regular maintenance. A trained pro will know the signs that a tree has internal rot or other damage that may not be obvious from the outside.
If there are concerns about the overall health of a tree, an arborist can examine it and write up a report that suggests a course of action. The price range for an inspection and report is $150–475.
Spraying to get rid of pests will cost $65–90 per tree per application (multiple applications may be necessary). Costs to inject pesticides into a tree average $10–14 per inch of trunk diameter. Tree maintenance companies may offer pest control as an extra service. Pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borers, and aphids can spread disease and cause serious harm to trees.
Tree trimming services usually include cleanup in their trimming quotes. For extensive debris caused by high winds, ice and snow storm damage, expect to pay $170–450 to have it removed and disposed of properly. If removing just a few fallen branches and leaves, companies typically base their fee on an hourly rate of $25–118.
Since professional tree trimming is often necessary for safety reasons, you may be looking for other ways to save on the cost of tree services. Here are a few tips.
Preventive maintenance can help avoid major costs down the line. Even if your trees are healthy, it’s important to have a pro trim and prune them regularly to ensure their long-term health.
“Don’t let things get so bad that they become an emergency,” advises Grimmer. “Maintain things on your own as best you can, but call a professional before it gets really bad.” He recommends trimming palm trees twice a year, fruit trees annually, and most other trees every other year.
In many parts of the country, the demand for tree services is lower in late winter months. As long as inclement weather isn’t a concern, you may be able to save by delaying maintenance to an off-peak time of year.
Worried that one of your trees is too close to a power line? Call the power company. Some utility providers will cover the cost of tree trimming to avoid safety issues.
Some tree services will provide a discount to service multiple properties in the same neighborhood at the same time. Talk to your neighbors about coordinating regular tree maintenance.
Debris removal and cleanup is typically a separate tree maintenance fee. If you can DIY splitting fallen branches and logs into firewood, you’ll save the cost of cleanup.
Expect to pay $223–696 to hire a pro for common tree maintenance services. While you can prune trees yourself to cut costs, it’s not a job for weekend warriors. It helps to know when to hire a tree maintenance expert.
As long as a tree is clear of power lines—and small enough to trim from the ground—DIY tree trimming may be a viable option for homeowners with the skills to operate the necessary equipment safely. Regularly trimming small trees keeps them healthy and reduces the need for professional intervention down the line.
Trimming taller trees, however, can be dangerous. Trained pros generally use a system of harnesses and other climbing gear to mitigate the risk of injury from falling. They’ll also have a variety of equipment not available to most homeowners, including:
Chainsaws
Pole saws
Multiple types of tree loppers
Wedges
Smaller hand saws, shears, and pruners
Wood chippers for cleanup
Perhaps the most important reason to trust a tree service pro is their specific knowledge of how to trim and remove trees safely. They’ll know how to prevent branches and other sections of the tree from falling on structures below during drop-cutting. They can also educate you about proper tree care and let you know how often you should have specific types of trees checked.
When it comes to hiring a professional landscaper or tree service, it’s good to gather quotes from a few different local companies so you can compare costs and available services. Before hiring a service, ask these questions about their background, experience, and qualifications for the job. The following information is often available on the pro’s Yelp Business Page.
Questions about the business:
Are they licensed and insured? (Note: Many states do not require tree service companies to be licensed.)
How long have they been in business?
Who will be doing the work, and what are their qualifications?
Is an arborist (a trained tree-care specialist) part of the crew?
Some other questions you can ask about the specific project and costs include:
What is the pro’s hourly rate, or how do they set their charges?
Is there a service-call fee, and what does it cover?
Estimated time to perform the job
Estimated costs of materials and equipment
What is included in the service? Is cleanup a separate charge?
Additional fees, such as travel time
What safety measures do they take while on-site?
Is there any part of the work that you can do as a homeowner?
Will this type of service require a local permit, and will the tree company obtain it for you?
Payment terms: Will you be expected to pay immediately, and what forms of payment do they accept?
How often should trees be trimmed?
Tree trimming typically costs $223–696. Frequency depends on their type: Most trees only need to be trimmed every 2 years or more, but palm trees should be trimmed twice a year. If you have fruit trees, they should be pruned annually to help them produce larger, better-quality fruit.
What is the cheapest way to cut down a tree?
The most affordable way to cut down a tree is to cut it up where it falls and repurpose it. Tree removal can be dangerous, especially for large trees, so paying the typical price of $386–1,372 for professional tree removal is worthwhile. However, having the tree hauled away can bring costs as high as $1,445. Using a felled tree for firewood, compost, mulch, or some other repurposing project can save you the cost of hauling and provide additional value.
Is it cheaper to top a tree or cut it down?
It is cheaper to top a tree (remove the top portion of the tree trunk and branches) than to cut it down, since tree pruning typically costs $262–773 while tree removal costs $386–1,372. Keep in mind that there are different types of pruning, and topping isn’t the recommended pruning method for all types of trees. For example, if you cut an oak too far back, it will sprout small heads and won’t return to its natural shape.
Find a qualified tree service in your area.
Cost data in this guide is based on project quote estimates provided to Yelp users by licensed professionals and businesses on Yelp (as well as analysis of industry data). Actual project costs may vary depending on location or complexity of the project. Cost data has been reviewed by our industry expert, Don Vandervort, a nationally known home improvement author. Don is the founder of the website HomeTips.com and has written or produced more than 30 home improvement books.
Every year, millions of consumers request quotes on Yelp from top-rated local professionals. We combine these real-life project quotes with data from the millions of people who interact with businesses on Yelp today. We use our years of expertise to create handy local cost guides that you can trust. Get accurate estimates on projects in your area, from roofing to moving.
Every year, millions of consumers request quotes on Yelp from top-rated local professionals. We combine these real-life project quotes with data from the millions of people who interact with businesses on Yelp today. We use our years of expertise to create handy local cost guides that you can trust. Get accurate estimates on projects in your area, from roofing to moving.
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Written by
Nick Cellucci
Nick has been a writer in the home services industry since 2017, having marketed for dozens of flooring and home improvement providers in North America. He loves diving into unfamiliar home topics and demystifying them for others. When he’s not writing, he’s likely cooking, hiking, or traveling with his wife in their DIY-renovated camper van.
Reviewed by
Don Vandervort
Yelp home improvement expert Don Vandervort is the founder of HomeTips.com and has more than 40 years of experience building and remodeling houses. He has written more than 20 home improvement books, including "How Your House Works" and "The Home Problem Solver," and was a segment host of HGTV’s award-winning show “The Fix.”
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