How much does snow removal cost?
How much does snow removal cost?
Snow removal prices for a driveway and sidewalk are $30 to $70 per storm while raking a roof costs $200 to $500 on average. Snow plowing contractors charge $25 to $75 per hour for shoveling, blowing, or plowing. Snow removal contract prices are $200 to $600 per season on average.
$30 – $70 cost per hour or per visit
$200 – $600 total cost per season
Snow removal prices for a driveway and sidewalk are $30 to $70 per storm while raking a roof costs $200 to $500 on average. Snow plowing contractors charge $25 to $75 per hour for shoveling, blowing, or plowing. Snow removal contract prices are $200 to $600 per season on average.
Snow Removal Prices
The average cost of residential snow removal is $30 to $100 for up to 6" and $30 per additional 6". Snow plowers charge $25 to $75 per hour, with contract prices at $200 to $600 per season. Commercial snow plowing rates are $50 to $200 per hour for parking lots and $150 to $350 per acre for salting.
Snow Removal Pricing Calculator
Snow removal contractors charge based on the job size, season length, amount of expected snowfall for the year, depth of snow, and the estimated time to complete the job. Most contractors charge hourly rates instead of per square foot.
| Unit | Average Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Per Hour | $25 – $75 | Typically charged for shoveling, blowing, or throwing. |
| Per Visit | $30 – $70 | Each time an area is cleared with no additional services. |
| Per Event | $30 – $100 | Charged per storm, in areas with short periods or light snowfall. |
| Per Season | $200 – $600 | Coverage for the entire season, with an upward limit on visits. |
| Per Month | $100 – $300 | Sometimes charged in areas with short periods or light snowfall. |
| Per Inch | $60 – $100 | For the first 4 to 6 inches of snow; Add $3 to $10 per each additional inch. |
DIY snow shoveling is a labor-intensive hassle and poses a risk for injury. Hiring a snow removal service saves you time, is much safer, and is cheaper than renting tools for every snowstorm.
Average cost of snow removal
| National Average Cost | $81 |
| Minimum Cost | $25 |
| Maximum Cost | $2,000 |
| Average Range | $44 to $128 |
Snow Removal Service Cost
Most snow removal services charge $25 to $75 per hour or $200 to $600 per season, depending on the location, area size, and removal method.
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Shoveling | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Blowing | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Plowing | $30 – $100 per visit |
| Roof Raking | $200 – $500 per visit |
| Salt Spreading | $20 – $65 per application |
| Commercial | $50 – $150 per hour |
Snow removal companies may use a combination of methods to clear your driveway and sidewalk depending on the depth of snow and size of the area. Ask upfront what equipment will be used and where the snow will be moved to on your property.
Snow Plowing Rates
Snow plowing rates are $30 to $70 per visit or $200 to $600 for a seasonal contract with a limited number of visits. Plowing an average driveway under 70' ranges from $30 to $50.
Snow Blowing Estimates
A snow blowing service charges $25 to $75 per hour per worker, the same as the cost for shoveling. Expect to spend $40 to $75 per visit, depending on the size of the area and depth of the snow.
Snow Shoveling Charges
Professionals charge $25 to $75 per hour per worker for shoveling snow depending on the size and type of area to be cleared. Homeowners should expect to pay $30 to $70 per visit for snow shoveling the average driveway.
Snow Salt Spreading Rates
Snow salt spreading rates are $20 to $65 per application for 1,000-square-feet, depending on the amount of salt used. Some companies charge $5 to $15 per bag of salt spread. Spreading salt leads to melting and prevents snow or rain from being able to freeze.
Cost To Salt A Parking Lot
The average cost to salt a parking lot is $2 to $3 per 1,000 square feet for small jobs or $150 to $350 per acre. One acre requires 500 to 1000 lbs. of salt. Bulk snow salt costs $100 to $200 per ton, depending on the availability.
Snow Removal Rates By Location
Snow removal rates are $25 to $75 per hour, depending on the location and the amount of snowfall. A sidewalk and driveway plowing combo costs $30 to $100 per visit, while roof snow removal costs $200 to $500.
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Sidewalk | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Driveway | $30 – $70 per visit |
| Roof | $200 – $500 per visit |
| Parking Lot | $50 – $200 per hour |
Average Cost To Remove Snow From Driveway
Snow plowing a driveway costs $30 to $70 per visit. The average price to snowblow a steep or gravel driveway is $50 to $100 or more. Driveway snow removal costs depend on the driveway's length, condition, slope, design, and material. Fees sometimes include the sidewalk.
| Type | Average Cost Per Storm* |
|---|---|
| Standard Driveway (up to 90') | $30 – $70 |
| Steep or Gravel Driveway | $50 – $100+ |
*Plowing costs less than snow hauling or removal. Ask the company where the snow will be piled up or if it will be removed instead.
Heated Driveways & Mats Cost
A heated driveway costs $12 to $28 per square foot installed, depending on if the system is electric or hydronic and if it's installed in a new or existing driveway. Snow melting driveways use buried cables or tubes under the concrete or asphalt to warm the driveway's surface.
Portable snow-melting mats cost $140 to $400 for a walkway or $40 per square foot to cover a driveway.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Heated Walkway Mat | $140 – $400 |
| Heated Driveway Mat | $700 – $2,500 |
| Heated Stair Mat | $55 – $100 per step |
| Snow Melting Mat Controller | $35 – $70 |
| Heated Driveway | $12 – $28 per square foot |
Electricity costs to heat a driveway are $0.44 per hour for two tire tracks or up to $2.00 per hour for full two-car coverage.
Heated driveways often come with a 10-year warranty, making them more efficient than snow blowers over time.
Roof Snow Removal Cost
Roof snow removal costs $200 to $500 on average or between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on the roof size and the amount of snow and ice. For larger homes with difficult roof access, contractors charge $1,000 to $2,000.
| Roof Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard | $200 – $500 |
| Large or Steep | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Clearing the snow off your roof prevents damage and typically is only necessary with heavy or prolonged snowfall. Professionals recommend clearing the snow off for every six inches that accumulates.
Cost To Install Roof Heating Cables
Roof heating cable systems costs $5 to $15 per linear foot, with most homeowners spending $500 to $1,500 for materials and installation. Heated cables melt the snow, prevent ice dams, and replace the need to hire a contractor each year.
Ice Dam Removal
An ice dam is a buildup of ice at the edge of a roof that forms when melting snow refreezes. This can block water from draining off the roof, leading to leaks and damage inside the home. Ice dam removal costs $200 to $2,400 depending on the removal method.
Snow Plowing Rates For Parking Lots
Snow plowing rates for commercial parking lots are $50 to $150 per hour, while snow removal prices run $80 to $200 per hour. Rates include salting and sanding and depend on the parking lot's location and size.
Placing snow markers or reflectors helps the professional gauge the parking lot's boundaries and complete the job faster.
Getting a seasonal contract for snow hauling is more cost-effective.
Sidewalk Snow Shoveling Charges
Residential sidewalk snow shoveling and blowing costs $25 to $75 per hour. Many states have regulations requiring public sidewalks to be cleared of snow within a specific time frame, or you could be fined. Some Homeowners' Associations include all or part of the plowing costs in HOA dues.
How Much Do Pros Charge For Snow Removal?
Professionals use the following snow removal pricing guide to determine how much to charge,
Snow Removal Pricing Guide
Snow removal companies charge per hour, per event, or per inch. Cost factors include:
Property size
Snow removal vs. plowing
One time vs. contract
Residential vs. commercial
Type of equipment used
Number of workers and estimated time required
Additional services such as salt spreading
Snow Removal vs. Snow Plowing
Snow plowing moves snow from the driveway to another part of the property. Snow removal includes loading the snow onto trucks and hauling it away. Removal requires extra equipment and labor, which increases the overall costs.
Be sure your contract clearly states if removal is included.
| Removal | Plowing | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
Snow Removal Contract Prices
Seasonal snow removal contract prices are $200 to $600, depending on the property size. Contracts typically limit the total number of visits, with extra costs for additional clearings. Ask about discounts for multi-year contracts or if unused visits can be turned in for lawn care.
Residential vs. Commercial Snow Removal Pricing
Residential snow removal costs about half that of commercial. Commercial snow plowing prices are higher due to needing multiple contractors, more equipment, salting and sanding, and clearing large areas like parking lots. Contractors may need to visit the property multiple times during a snowstorm to keep the business operational.
| Frequency | Residential | Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Per Hour | $25 – $75 | $50 – $200 |
| Per Visit | $30 – $100 | $60 – $150+ |
Driveway Size & Design
The size and design of your driveway impact the overall removal costs. Extra-long driveways cost an extra $40 to $80 per each additional 100'. Removing snow from steep, curvy, dirt, or gravel driveways costs more as they take longer to clear and de-ice.
Other Conditions
Response time is critical, especially after a significant storm, and contractors typically have a waiting list. Some states have regulations to clear snow within a specific time frame or else you can face fines. Ask contractors about their average response time up front.
In locations with little snowfall, service providers typically charge more. For areas with regular snowfall, contracts are typically based on average total snowfall expected for the year.
DIY Snow Removal Costs
DIY snow removal is relatively inexpensive, but it's labor-intensive and poses a risk for injury. Purchasing or renting equipment will be your largest expense. The type of tools you'll need depends on the average amount of snow in your area and how often you'll clear your driveway and sidewalk.
Even if you plan on shoveling the snow yourself, it's smart to have a snow removal contractor on call. Don't wait until it snows; companies tend to get booked up quickly during heavy storms.
DIY Snow Removal Tools
| Equipment | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Shovel | $15 – $40 |
| Electric Shovel | $60 – $200 |
| Snow Pusher | $30 – $150 |
| Snow Broom | $10 – $30 |
| Ice Chopper | $15 – $30 |
| Roof Rake | $25 – $80 |
| Roof Rake Extension | $6 – $20 |
| Roof Heat Cables | $25 – $250 |
| Roof Fence Brackets (kit) | $25 – $90 |
| Roof Snow Guards (kit) | $50 – $400 |
| Driveway Marker | $20 – $50 |
| Snow Salt (per bag) | $10 – $30 |
| Heat Mat – Small | $140 – $400 |
| Heat Mat – Large | $700 – $2,500 |
| Heated Driveway (per square foot) | $12 – $28 |
| Salt Spreader | $150 – $300 |
| Salt Storage | $40 – $100 |
| De-icer (per lb.) | $0.40 – $3 |
DIY Snow Plow Rental
The average cost of renting a snow plow for a truck is $650 per month, while an ATV or UTV plow rents for $150 per month. Renting a skid steer for $700 to $1,500 per month is aother option for contractors or large properties.
| Vehicle | Daily | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATV or UTV Plow | $20 | $60 | $150 |
| Truck or SUV Plow | $60 | $220 | $650 |
| Skid Steer w/ Cab & Bucket Plow | -- | -- | $700 – $1,500 |
Plowing places stress on your vehicle, which can lead to costly repairs.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Snow?
Snow removal is a strenuous endeavor. While there isn't one right way to remove snow, there are a few things that will make it easier.
Get the right equipment for the amount of snowfall in your area.
Spread salt before expected snowfall to make the process easier.
Put driveway markers down.
Plan to shovel in stages and remove the snow every two to five inches.
Avoid stepping on and packing down the snow.
Clear snow from around the cars and tires first.
Avoid leaving snowbanks at the edges of walkways or driveways.
Have a snow removal service on call for heavy snow events or times when you are unavailable.
Snow Removal FAQs
Is A Snow Removal Service Worth It?
Hiring a snow removal service is worth in areas with a lot of snowfall. DIY snow removal is possible in locations with light or infrequent snowfall if you are physically up to the task. Always have a snow removal contractor on call for when heavy storms hit or when you are unable to shovel it yourself.
How Much Is A Snow Blower?
A gas-powered snow blower costs $400 to $1,200 to buy or around $75 per day to rent. An electric snow blower or thrower costs $100 to $250 and is excellent for flat driveways or snow coverage of 4 inches or less. Additional costs apply for ongoing operations and maintenance.
| Power Source | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | $100 – $250 |
|
| Gas | $400 – $1,200 |
|
How Much Does A Snow Plow Cost?
The average cost to buy a snow plow attachment for a truck is $1,000 to $2,500. Snowplow kits for ATVs and UTVs cost $200 to $800. Additional costs apply for installation and mounting, operational costs such as gas, and ongoing maintenance. Plus, using a plow requires some experience.
| Vehicle Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| ATV or UTV | $200 – $800 |
| Truck or SUV | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Can You Snow Plow a Gravel Driveway?
Plowing gravel driveways and surfaces requires putting shoes on the plow and adjusting the blade to a half-inch above the ground. This prevents digging into and damaging the gravel in most cases. Before plowing, be sure to resurface your gravel driveway to fix wheel ruts, potholes, and tilted sections.
What Is The Best Snow Removal Equipment?
The best snow removal equipment depends on the size of your driveway and the amount of snowfall. Snow plows are recommended for long driveways, while a snow blower is best for short driveways or sidewalks.
In places with heavy snowfall, roof heating cables are the best way to remove snow from the roof and prevent ice dams.
What is the Cheapest Way to Remove Snow?
Buying a snow shovel for about $20 and removing the snow yourself is the cheapest way. However, shoveling snow by hand is time-consuming and can lead to injuries. The next cheapest way to remove snow is by renting a plow or blower, followed by hiring a professional.
How Much Does Snow Removal Insurance Cost?
Snow removal insurance costs $29 to $40 per month for residential homeowners. General liability insurance for a snow plow business costs $400 to $1,000 per year, plus $900 a year for a commercial auto policy and $400 annually for a business owner's policy.
Hiring A Snow Removal Contractor
There are over 10,000 snow removal related injuries each year. Hiring a professional snow removal contractor saves you time, is much safer, and is cheaper than renting tools over and over. Be sure to:
Get at least three competing quotes.
Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google, and look for reliability.
Confirm the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Never wait until it snows. Sign your contract during the summer to save.
Book a year-round contract for both lawn care and snow removal to save.
Ask your neighbors what they are paying so you know what to expect.
Questions To Ask
What snow removal services do you offer? (Plowing, Blowing, or Salting)
Do you have insurance?
How long have you been in business?
What is your average response time? Do I have to call each time?
Do you offer lawn care services or package deals?
What type of contracts do you offer? (Seasonal, Per event, Hourly)
Can my unused snow removal visits be turned in for lawn care?