When it comes to tree removal, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is, “How much does it cost?” The cost of removing a tree can vary depending on several factors, and it’s important to understand what to expect clearly. In this article, we’ll delve into the average cost of tree removal, factors that can influence the price, and the importance of hiring a certified arborist. So, let’s get started and demystify the average cost of removing a tree.
What Is the Average Cost to Remove a Tree?
On average, the cost of tree removal falls within the range of $341 to $1,523 for a tree approximately 50 feet in height. However, it’s important to note that this is just an average, and the actual cost can vary based on various factors such as size, location, and tree condition.
What Determines the Cost of Tree Removal?
When it comes to tree removal, several factors come into play that determine the overall cost. While tree size is important, other crucial factors influence the price. Let’s take a closer look at these factors to understand the cost of tree removal better.
Size Matters, But It’s Not Just About Height
It’s no surprise that larger trees are more expensive to remove. They require heavy-duty equipment, the removal process is riskier, and there’s usually more material to dispose of. However, size isn’t solely determined by height.
While tall trees generally cost more due to increased labor and equipment needs, the trunk’s thickness also plays a role. For instance, a tall tree with a narrow trunk may be less expensive to remove than a tree of the same height with a thick trunk. Similarly, even a shorter tree with a wide, hard-to-cut trunk may cost extra.
Here’s a breakdown of the primary tree removal price ranges based on size:
- Up to 30 feet: The cost typically falls between $150 to $450.
- 30 to 60 feet: For trees in this height range, you can expect to pay between $450 and $1,200.
- 60 to 80 feet: If your tree stands between 60 and 80 feet tall, the price range generally falls between $800 and $1,500.
- Over 80 feet: The cost increases significantly once a tree exceeds 80 feet. At this stage, additional equipment, such as cranes, may be required to access higher branches, resulting in a price range of $1,000 to $2,000.
Additionally, if a tree has multiple trunks, the removal process becomes more complex and, consequently, pricier.
Average Tree Removal Cost by State
| State | State Average | Cost Range |
| New Jersey | $700 – $1,000 | $400 – $1,500 |
| Delaware | $600 – $900 | $300 – $1,200 |
| Pennsylvania | $650 – $1,000 | $350 – $1,500 |
| Maryland | $750 – $1,100 | $450 – $1,800 |
Tree Types and Their Removal Costs
Different tree species also influence the overall cost of removal. Here are some common tree types and their average removal prices:
- Ash: Mature ash trees, reaching 40-80 feet, typically cost between $800 and $2,000 to remove.
- Cedar: Cedar trees come in various heights, resulting in removal costs ranging from $500 to $2,000.
- Maple: Mature maple trees, growing 60-100 feet tall, are usually more expensive to remove, averaging between $1,100 and $2,000.
- Oak: Removing a mature oak tree, standing 60-80 feet tall, typically costs around $700 to $1,300.
- Palm: Palm trees’ removal costs depend on the species and can range from $300 to $900 due to their thinner trunks.
- Pine: With over 100 species, pine trees can vary significantly in height, resulting in removal prices ranging from $300 to $3,000.
- Poplar: Poplar trees, growing 90-115 feet and featuring extensive root systems, tend to be some of the most expensive to remove, averaging about $1,500 to $2,000.
Health and Condition of the Tree
The health and condition of a tree play a crucial role in determining its removal cost. Diseased trees pose safety hazards to other trees, your property, and people nearby. While cutting down a diseased tree is easier, it can be more expensive if it’s in a dangerous position and could cause significant damage upon falling. In such cases, it’s advisable to schedule an inspection with a professional tree removal service to obtain an accurate quote.
Already Fallen Trees Are More Affordable
When it comes to fallen trees, the cost of removal is generally lower than cutting down a living tree. As long as the fallen tree hasn’t created an emergency, removing a tree trunk lying on the ground is relatively safe and straightforward, typically ranging from $100 to $300.
Additional Factors That Determine the Cost of Tree Removal: What You Need to Know
Tree removal is necessary in certain situations, whether due to emergencies or to clear multiple trees from a wooded area. The cost of tree removal can vary significantly based on various factors that must be considered.
- Emergency Tree Removal: Emergency tree removal becomes essential when a tree unexpectedly falls on your property or poses an immediate risk. This type of removal requires extra caution to prevent further damage. Prices for emergency tree removal can vary depending on the specific situation and the contractor you hire, with costs potentially reaching up to $5,000. Before paying for this service out of pocket, it’s worth checking if your homeowner’s insurance policy covers the cost of removing a fallen tree on your property.
- Multiple Trees: Some contractors may offer pricing based on acreage if you want to clear multiple trees, especially in a wooded area. Lightly wooded areas may cost between $500 and $2,500 per acre, while areas with denser tree populations could raise the price to $3,000 to $6,000 per acre.
- Accessibility: Any factors that make tree removal more challenging will likely increase the cost. These include sloped yards, rocky or muddy soil, angled trunks, or weak branches. If accessing the tree poses risks, such as proximity to power lines or nearby structures, expect an additional charge of up to 50%.
- Location: A travel surcharge may apply to cover the contractor’s transportation costs if you live in a remote area. Additionally, spaces with a higher cost of living often result in higher tree removal expenses.
- Machinery: Some tree removal jobs require specialized machinery like cranes to maneuver and prevent damage to surrounding structures safely. Jobs involving cranes can add at least $500 to the cost, with certain complex projects reaching up to $6,000 to $7,000 based on analysis.
- Permits: Many locations require permits for removing trees taller than 10 feet. While a permit typically costs $60 to $150, obtaining one is crucial to avoid potential fines later in the process.
Understanding these factors will help you navigate the costs associated with tree removal effectively. By considering accessibility, location, machinery requirements, and necessary permits, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and successful tree removal process.
Additional Tree Services
If you’re planning a landscaping project, consider exploring additional services by tree removal companies. Hiring a company for a comprehensive project can save you time and money rather than splitting it into multiple jobs. Let’s look closely at some of these services and what they entail.
Debris Removal
After tree removal, you’re often left with extra debris you don’t want to deal with alone. Some professional tree removal services offer options for debris disposal at an additional cost. They can haul the extra debris for around $50-$100. Another option is to turn the debris into mulch using a wood chipper, typically costing $75-$125 per hour. The tree and larger branches can be split into firewood for about $75-$100 per tree.
Stump Grinding or Removal
The price of tree removal usually doesn’t include getting rid of the stump. Removing the stump and its roots can cost anywhere from $150 to $500, depending on the complexity of the root system. Stump grinding is a more affordable alternative, with prices ranging from $100 to $400. Other less common methods to eliminate a stump include burning (around $250 per stump) or using a chemical treatment (approximately $100).
Tree Transplanting
If you have a tree you love but want to move it to a different spot on your property, tree transplanting is an option to consider. Relocating small trees can cost an additional $300 to $800, but keep in mind that moving medium to large-sized trees can be quite pricey. It’s worth noting that not all tree removal companies offer this service, as it requires specialized equipment.
Tree Trimming
Tree trimming is not just about aesthetics; it can also improve the health of your trees and reduce the risk of damage to your home. The cost of tree trimming typically ranges from $300 to $800, depending on the scale of the job. Regular tree pruning is an essential part of maintaining tree health.
Wood Chipping
Wood chipping is a great option to repurpose the tree debris in your garden as flooring or compost. Wood chipping costs around $250 to $350, but the total cost depends on the size of the tree being chipped. Wood chipping is usually charged per hour, ranging from $70 to $125. For example, chipping a 20-foot oak tree might cost $320 to $520, while chipping a 45-foot oak tree could cost $651 to $730 or more.
So, consider these options if you’re planning a landscaping project or need additional tree services. Hiring a professional tree removal company for a comprehensive project can save you time, effort, and even some cash.
Tree Removal Costs: Rural vs. City
When it comes to tree removal costs, there are some differences between rural and city areas that you should be aware of. If you live in the countryside, you may have to pay more for tree removal services. This is because tree removal companies in rural areas often charge additional travel time fees. You may come across charges of around $0.50 per mile for travel or a flat fee of $50–$200.
Companies in urban areas are typically closer to your location, so you won’t usually be charged for travel time. This can help keep tree removal costs relatively lower than in rural areas.
The Importance of Hiring Professionals for Tree Removal
While it might be tempting to take on tree removal as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project, it’s essential to understand the risks involved and why hiring professionals for the job is generally best. Professional tree removal experts have the equipment, expertise, and training to safely and efficiently handle tree felling and disposal.
There are specific scenarios where attempting tree removal yourself can lead to serious consequences. If the tree you want to remove is taller than 30 feet or within 10 feet of power lines, it’s not advisable to tackle it independently. In such cases, it’s crucial to call in professionals to avoid fines, injuries, or potential legal issues.
Factors to Consider if You Decide to Remove a Tree Yourself
If you still wish to proceed with removing a tree on your own, there are important factors to keep in mind:
- Safety First: Tree removal, even for relatively small trees, can be risky. Ensure you have the appropriate safety equipment, including goggles, gloves, sturdy work boots, a hard hat, and hearing protection. Safety should always be your top priority.
- Necessary Equipment: To handle tree removal effectively, you must be comfortable using a chainsaw and own tools such as a pole saw and tree spade. Consider renting a wood chipper if you plan to handle the tree disposal process yourself.
- Permit Requirements: Checking whether you need a permit is crucial before removing trees. Some areas may have specific regulations or restrictions on tree removal, so ensure you comply with local rules and obtain any necessary permits beforehand.
Hiring a Certified Arborist for Tree Removal
While you may come across tree removal services with cheap pricing, it’s crucial to prioritize the expertise and qualifications of the professionals you hire. Hiring a certified arborist insured for tree removal is highly recommended when it comes to tree removal.
Certified arborists have undergone rigorous training and certification processes, ensuring they possess the knowledge and skills to handle tree removal safely and efficiently. They stay updated with industry standards and best practices and renew their licenses regularly.
By hiring a certified arborist, you can have peace of mind knowing that your tree removal job is being handled by a trained professional who prioritizes safety and follows industry guidelines. They understand the complexities involved in tree removal and can mitigate any potential risks or complications that may arise during the process.
Moreover, hiring an insured arborist provides an added layer of protection. In the event of any accidents or damages that may occur during the tree removal, their insurance coverage ensures that you are not held liable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, several factors come into play when it comes to the average cost of tree removal. The size and height of the tree, its location, the complexity of the job, and the additional services required all contribute to the overall cost. While it’s easier to provide an exact figure by assessing the specific circumstances, a ballpark estimate for tree removal can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s crucial to consult with a professional tree service like Strobert Tree Services to get an accurate assessment and an estimate tailored to your unique situation.
Remember, investing in professional tree removal is not just about cost but also about ensuring safety, protecting your property, and maintaining the health and aesthetics of your landscape. So, contact Strobert Tree Services today for expert advice and a comprehensive evaluation of your tree removal needs.