Tree Removal Cost Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$530 – $1,060
Tree removal • 30–60 ft • 18″ trunk
Tree Removal
$530 – $1,060
Stump Removal
Not included
Location Factor
Open Yard (1×)
Tip: Get at least 3 quotes from licensed arborists. Check for ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification. Verify insurance — tree removal liability is significant.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Tree Removal Cost Breakdown
Cost by Tree Height
| Height | Cost Range | Typical Time | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 30 ft | $200 – $500 | 1 – 3 hrs | Ornamental, small fruit trees |
| 30 – 60 ft | $500 – $1,200 | 3 – 5 hrs | Maple, medium oak, pine |
| 60 – 80 ft | $1,000 – $2,000 | 5 – 8 hrs | Tall oak, poplar, large pine |
| 80+ ft | $1,500 – $4,000+ | 1 – 2 days | Mature hardwoods, tall conifers |
* Base costs for open-yard removal. Add 25–50% for trees near structures or power lines.
Location & Condition Multipliers
| Factor | Scenario | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Open yard, easy access | 1.0× |
| Near fence or driveway | 1.25× | |
| Near house or power lines | 1.5× | |
| Condition | Healthy, stable | 1.0× |
| Dead or diseased | 1.1× | |
| Hazardous lean / storm damage | 1.3× |
* Stump grinding adds $100–$400 per stump. Emergency removal adds 50–100%.
How We Calculate
Our tree removal cost calculator estimates project costs based on tree height, trunk diameter, proximity to structures, tree condition, and optional stump grinding. Pricing uses a base cost by height bracket plus per-inch-of-diameter adders, adjusted by location and condition multipliers.
How the math works: Base cost is determined by height bracket (under 30 ft, 30–60 ft, 60–80 ft, 80+ ft). A per-inch adder for trunk diameter accounts for the additional equipment and labor needed for thicker trees. Location multiplier (1.0× open yard, 1.25× near fence, 1.5× near structure/power lines) and condition multiplier (1.0× healthy, 1.1× dead/diseased, 1.3× hazardous lean) are applied. Stump grinding is added optionally.
Cost by Tree Height
Small (under 30 ft): $200–$500 base. Includes ornamental trees, small fruit trees, and young shade trees. Usually completed in 1–3 hours by a 2-person crew with basic equipment.
Medium (30–60 ft): $500–$1,200 base. Includes mature fruit trees, medium oaks, maples, and pines. Requires a bucket truck or climbing, 3–5 hours with a 3-person crew.
Large (60–80 ft): $1,000–$2,000 base. Includes tall oaks, poplars, and pines. Requires specialized rigging equipment and often a full-day crew of 3–4 workers.
Very Large (80+ ft): $1,500–$4,000+ base. Includes mature hardwoods and conifers. May require a crane ($500–$1,500/day additional). Multi-day jobs are common for trees over 100 ft.
Diameter Impact
Trunk diameter directly affects removal difficulty. Trees under 12″ are straightforward. Trees 12–24″ require heavier chainsaws and more sectional cutting. Trees over 24″ often need specialized felling techniques or crane assistance. Our calculator adds $5–$15 per inch of diameter above 12″.
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, HomeGuide, and certified arborist companies across multiple US regions (2025–2026). Costs vary significantly by region — West Coast and Northeast are typically 20–30% above national averages.
Last updated: 2026-02-08
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost on average? +
Tree removal costs $400–$1,800 on average, with most homeowners paying $750–$1,200. Small trees under 30 ft cost $200–$500. Medium trees (30–60 ft) cost $500–$1,200. Large trees (60–80 ft) cost $1,000–$2,000. Very large trees over 80 ft can cost $1,500–$4,000+. Stump grinding adds $100–$400 per stump.
What factors affect tree removal cost? +
The main cost factors are: tree height (biggest driver), trunk diameter (thicker trees require heavier equipment), location (close to structures, power lines, or fences adds 25–50%), tree condition (dead or diseased trees can be more hazardous), species (hardwoods cost more than softwoods), and accessibility (limited access for equipment increases labor time).
Do I need a permit to remove a tree? +
Many cities and counties require a permit to remove trees above a certain size (often 6–10″ trunk diameter). Permit costs range from $25–$150. Some areas protect specific species (oak, redwood) or trees in historic districts. Check with your local planning or arborist department before removing any tree. Fines for unpermitted removal can reach $500–$10,000.
How much does stump removal cost after tree removal? +
Stump grinding costs $100–$400 per stump when done alongside tree removal (often discounted). Standalone stump grinding costs $150–$500. Most tree removal companies offer a package deal — bundling stump grinding saves 10–20% vs. separate visits. Chemical stump removal ($50–$100) is cheapest but takes 4–6 weeks.
Can I remove a tree myself? +
DIY tree removal is only safe for small trees under 20 ft that are far from structures and power lines. You need a chainsaw ($200–$500), safety gear ($100+), and knowledge of felling techniques. Never attempt DIY removal of trees near power lines (call the utility company) or trees requiring climbing. The average ER visit from tree-related injury costs $10,000+.
Does homeowner insurance cover tree removal? +
Homeowner insurance typically covers tree removal only if the tree falls and damages a covered structure (house, garage, fence). Coverage is usually $500–$1,000 per tree. Insurance generally does not cover removal of standing trees, even if they are dead or hazardous. Preventive removal is the homeowner’s responsibility. Check your policy for specific limits.
What is the best time of year to remove a tree? +
Late winter (January–March) is the best time for tree removal. Trees are dormant with less foliage, making the job faster and cheaper. The ground is often firmer for equipment access. Arborists are less busy, so you may get lower quotes. Avoid spring and summer when birds may be nesting (some species are protected). Emergency removal after storms costs 50–100% more.
How much does emergency tree removal cost? +
Emergency tree removal costs $1,000–$5,000+, roughly 50–100% more than standard removal. After-hours, weekend, and storm-season calls carry premium rates. If a tree has fallen on your house, the tree removal company will coordinate with your insurance adjuster. Some companies require full payment upfront for emergency work. Get at least 2 quotes even in emergencies.
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