Tree Removal Cost Calculator

Most removals run $400 to $2,000; very large trees can reach $5,000 or more.

Insurance often helps if a tree falls and damages a structure, but rarely for routine removal of a healthy tree.

Stump grinding typically adds $150 to $600 depending on size and number.

Taller trees with bigger trunks take more labor, equipment, and careful rigging.

Some cities require a permit, especially for large or protected trees, so check local rules first.

Tree removal typically costs $300 to $1,500 for a single tree, with most homeowners paying around $700 on average. Small trees under 30 feet tend to cost $150 to $500, while large trees over 60 feet can run $1,500 to $3,000 or more. Factors like trunk diameter, proximity to structures, and whether stump removal is included all affect the final price.

Tree removal costs range from $150 for a small tree to $3,000 or more for a very large or hazardous one, with a typical job falling between $400 and $1,200. Emergency removal, difficult access, or trees near power lines or structures adds to the cost. Getting quotes from two or three certified arborists is the best way to find a fair price and ensure the work is done safely.

Some utility companies will remove trees at no cost if they pose a direct threat to power lines, so contacting your local utility is a good first step. Municipal programs occasionally offer free removal for certain invasive species or storm-damaged trees, so check with your city or county. Firewood buyers sometimes offset removal costs by taking the wood, so asking local firewood sellers or neighbors is worth trying.

The 5-15-90 rule is a safety guideline used in tree felling: stay at least 5 times the tree height away from the base as a minimum safe distance, keep a 15-degree lean tolerance before needing specialized rigging, and maintain a 90-degree retreat path at a 45-degree angle from the intended fall direction. This rule is taught in arborist and chainsaw safety training to reduce the risk of injury. Homeowners should leave the felling of large or hazardous trees to certified professionals rather than attempting DIY removal.