How much does tree trimming cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does tree trimming cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does tree trimming cost?

$200 – $900average cost per tree (30’ to 60’ tall)
$400 – $1,800average cost per large tree (> 60’ tall)
$50 – $125cost per hour

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$200 – $900 average cost per tree (30’ to 60’ tall)

$400 – $1,800 average cost per large tree (> 60’ tall)

$50 – $125 cost per hour


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Sarah Noel
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Sarah Noel
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Tree trimming cost

Tree trimming costs $200 to $900 per tree for trees 30’ to 60’ tall. The cost to trim a tree up to 30’ tall is $100 to $500. The cost to trim a large tree is $400 to $1,800 for heights more than 60’ tall. Tree trimming prices are $50 to $125 hourly.

Tree trimming cost by height - chart
Tree trimming cost by height - chart
Tree trimming cost
Service Average cost
Trim a tree (up to 30’ tall) $100 – $500
Trim a tree (30’ – 60’ tall) $200 – $900
Trim a tree (more than 60’ tall) $400 – $1,800
Cut and remove a large tree branch $150 – $850
Prune a tree $200 – $800
Tree root pruning $150 – $500
Top a tree $150 – $500
Crown reduction $250 – $1,300
Bush and shrub trimming $5 – $35 each
Hedge trimming (per 10’ length) $25 – $60
Remove a tree $300 – $2,000

Get free estimates from tree trimming services near you.

Average cost of tree trimming

The following table shows the average cost to trim a tree:

Average cost of tree trimming
National average cost $550
Minimum cost $75
Maximum cost $1,800
Average range $200 to $900

*Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

Tree trimming cost per hour

Tree trimming costs $50 to $125 per hour on average, depending on the location, method, and equipment. Working on the ground is cheapest. Fees increase for tree climbing, bucket trucks, or cranes to access taller trees.

Cost to trim a large tree by height

The cost to trim a large tree is $200 to $900 on average or up to $1,800 for trees 60’ tall or larger. Bigger trees need extra climbing equipment and safety precautions that increase the costs.

Cost to trim a large tree by height
Tree height Average cost Tree types
Up to 30 feet $100 – $500
  • Crab apple
  • Crepe Myrtle
  • Mesquite
  • Lilac
30 – 60 feet $200 – $900
  • Conifers
  • Beech
  • Dogwood
  • Palms
More than 60 feet $400 – $1,800
  • Maple
  • Oak
  • Cypress
  • Elm
  • Spruce
  • Ash
  • Pine

Tree trimming service cutting a large branch
Tree trimming service cutting a large branch

Tree trimming prices by type

The following table shows the average cost to trim a tree by type:

Tree trimming prices by type
Tree type Average cost to trim
Ash tree $100 – $700
Beech tree $400 – $700
Crab apple tree $100 – $500
Crepe myrtle tree $75 – $150
Dogwood tree $100 – $600
Holly tree $250 – $800
Maple tree $475 – $1,100
Mesquite tree $100 – $400
Oak tree $450 – $1,400
Palm tree $100 – $650
Pine tree $250 – $950

Cost to trim an oak tree

The average cost of oak tree trimming is $450 to $1,400 per tree. Only remove dead or broken limbs from oaks less than 3 years old. Mature oaks need occasional pruning to cut limbs growing toward the trunk. Arborists apply a pruning seal to oak-tree cuts to prevent infections.

Palm tree trimming cost

Palm tree trimming costs $100 to $650 per tree on average, including an inspection, trimming, removing fronds, and cleanup with disposal. Palm trees need trimming 1 to 2 times yearly according to the species and climate.

Palm tree removal costs $150 to $900 per tree if the tree is dying or infested beyond recovery.

Arborist Working High Up Trimming Palm Tree Fronds
Arborist Working High Up Trimming Palm Tree Fronds

Cost to trim a mesquite tree

The cost to trim a mesquite tree is $100 to $400 on average. Mesquite trees grow new branches quickly, and mature trees require annual pruning. Trimmers must keep some limbs in the lower, middle, and upper tree canopy to maintain its health.

Maple tree trimming cost

The cost to trim a maple tree is $475 to $1,100 on average. Maples are one of the only trees that thrive when pruned in mid-summer. Trimming maple trees in winter makes the tree produce sap.

Pine tree trimming cost

Pine tree trimming costs $250 to $950 per tree, depending on the size. Pine trees get 50 to 100+ tall and often require a bucket truck to trim. Arborists recommend trimming pine trees carefully, but never cutting off the top since that can kill the tree.

Cost to trim crepe myrtles

The average cost to trim a crepe myrtle is $75 to $150 per tree. Trimming multiple crepe myrtle trees costs $40 to $60 per tree on average. Prune crepe myrtles before new leaves start growing in early spring. Cutting off the top of crepe myrtles makes them susceptible to diseases.

Tree pruning cost

Tree pruning costs $200 to $800 on average or up to $1,600 for large trees. The cost to thin out trees increases if it’s close to a building or other obstacles. Pruning encourages new growth by removing broken, weak, dead, or diseased branches.

Tree pruning cost
Tree height Average cost Tree types
Up to 30 feet $100 – $400
  • Japanese maple
  • Crabapple
  • Crepe myrtle
  • Cherry
  • Pear
  • Lemon
  • Peach
  • Lilac
  • Plum
30 – 60 feet $200 – $800
  • Magnolia
  • Bradford pear
  • Cypress
  • Dogwood
  • Elm
  • Palm
  • Willow
Over 60 feet $350 – $1,600
  • Oak
  • Pine
  • Ash
  • Cedar
  • Eucalyptus
  • Fir
  • Hemlock
  • Maple
  • Pecan
  • Redwood

Arborist pruning fruit trees with shears
Arborist pruning fruit trees with shears

Cost of pruning fruit trees

The cost of pruning a fruit tree is $100 to $400 per tree for plants up to 30’ tall, or $60 to $125 per hour. Pruning multiple fruit trees at the same time typically brings the cost per tree down. Pruning helps fruit trees grow healthier and produce more fruit.

Root pruning cost

Get free estimates from tree trimming services near you.

Root pruning costs $150 to $500 per tree on average, depending on the size of the root ball and its location. Pruning costs more when roots are in underground pipes or under pavement. Proper root pruning stimulates new root growth in preparation for tree transplanting.

Tree trimming cost calculator

Tree trimming cost factors include:

  • Tree size – Large trees have more branches and require more skill with extra safety equipment to trim.

  • Tree type – Some species have denser canopies that take longer to trim.

  • Number of trees – Cheaper rates per tree apply for trimming multiple trees during the same visit.

  • Trimming method – Total costs depend on the cutting method. Common methods include pruning the tree or crown cleaning, raising, or reduction.

  • Equipment type – Different costs apply when the crew will use a bucket truck, pole saws, crane, or other forestry vehicles.

  • Tree health – Rotting, dead, or leaning trees require extra safety precautions, increasing labor time.

  • Accessibility – Buildings, fences, and other site obstacles increase job complexity by limiting crane and machinery access.

  • Power lines – Some electric companies will trim trees for free if they are likely to fall on power lines during a storm. Trimming policies vary in each state.

  • Site type – Land with rocks, muddy soil, or slopes can’t support the weight of heavy machinery, so the crew must use slower methods.

  • Season – Cheaper tree trimming rates apply in the winter when the trees don’t have leaves, making branches more accessible.

  • Labor – Higher labor charges apply when the crew must travel long distances or climb the tree. Labor rates are higher in peak season.

  • Emergency work – Storm damage or after-hours emergency work costs $150 to $250 per hour.

  • CleanupTree debris removal costs $75 to $250 per trip when charged separately.

  • Mulching – Tree chipping costs $100 to $150 per hour to create mulch onsite.

  • Landscape repair – Landscapers charge $50 to $100 per hour for fixing yard damages from fallen branches or large trimming equipment.

  • Additional services Bush and shrub removal costs $25 to $150 per bush.

  • Heritage trees – Specific laws and permits are necessary to prune protected trees. Consult an arborist or the local city government for more info.

  • Heavy machinery – Crane-assisted tree trimming costs $500 to $2,500 per day extra for the added transportation, insurance, operator, and fuel.

  • Traffic control – A 2-person flagging crew costs $175 to $225 per hour when trimming large trees close to public streets.

Cost to top a tree

Tree topping costs $150 to $500 and is typically the first step of tree removal. Cutting the top off a healthy tree is not a certified pruning method for promoting growth.

Crown reduction costs $250 to $1,300. The cost to cut back trees with this method is higher than trimming because it requires more planning and expertise.

Cost to top a tree vs. crown reduction
Service Average cost Pros and cons
Topping a tree $150 – $500
  • Stops branches from falling in storms
  • Prevents long-term healthy growth
  • May kill the tree eventually
  • Attracts pests and infections
  • Uneven branch growth
Tree crown reduction $250 – $1,300
  • Reduces overall crown area by cutting carefully selected limbs
  • Safe way to boost tree health
  • Preserves natural appearance
  • Improves airflow to branches
  • Stops crossing branches from rubbing together
  • Time-consuming process

*Total costs depend on the tree size, health, and accessibility.

Tree topping with growth returning
Tree topping with growth returning

Cost to cut large tree branches

Tree branch removal costs $75 to $250 on average for small branches or up to $850 for a large limb more than 10’ long. Cutting down extra-long tree limbs typically requires a bucket truck and more labor to cut it into smaller pieces for hauling.

Residential tree trimming using a chain saw
Residential tree trimming using a chain saw

Arborist charge to trim trees

An arborist costs $100 to $250 per hour. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certifies American arborists to do all types of tree work and diagnosis. Arborists also offer consultations for site development.

Hire an arborist instead of a basic tree trimmer if:

  • The tree needs treatments for diseases or pests.

  • The city requires an arborist’s report for working with protected trees.

  • Careful pruning is necessary to maintain a high-valued tree.

  • Homeowners need additional advice on tree planting and landscaping.

  • The job takes an experienced tree climber trained in the best safety practices.

Tree trimming costs near you

Get free estimates from tree trimming services near you.

The following chart shows the average tree trimming cost by location:

Tree trimming cost near you by location
Location Average cost
Atlanta, GA $225 – $1,000
Austin, TX $225 – $1,000
Boston, MA $275 – $1,200
Bridgeport, CT $200 – $950
Chicago, IL $225 – $1,000
Cleveland, OH $200 – $925
Columbus, OH $200 – $950
Dallas, TX $200 – $950
Denver, CO $225 – $975
Detroit, MI $200 – $950
Honolulu, HI $250 – $1,100
Houston, TX $250 – $1,100
Indianapolis, IN $200 – $925
Las Vegas, NV $200 – $925
Los Angeles, CA $225 – $975
Miami, FL $200 – $900
Minneapolis, MN $225 – $1,000
Nashville, TN $200 – $925
New York, NY $250 – $1,200
Newark, NJ $225 – $1,000
Philadelphia, PA $225 – $1,000
Phoenix, AZ $200 – $925
Pittsburgh, PA $200 – $950
Portland, OR $225 – $1,000
San Diego, CA $225 – $975
San Francisco, CA $250 – $1,150
Seattle, WA $225 – $1,000
Virginia Beach, VA $200 – $875
Washington, DC $225 – $1,000

Additional tree cutting services & prices

Cost to trim bushes, shrubs, and hedges

Shrub and bush trimming costs $5 to $20 per bush on average. Hedge trimming costs $25 to $60 per 10’ of hedge length, depending on the hedge type and overall size. Average costs to trim trees and bushes are typically lower with an annual landscaping maintenance plan.

Tree removal & stump grinding

DIY cost to trim a tree

DIY tree trimming costs $200 to $750 on average for tools, safety equipment, and dumping fees. Those trimming trees without training risk branches falling on people, cars, or houses. Experienced arborists follow extra safety precautions and methods that promote tree health.

DIY cost to trim a tree
Tool / service Average cost
Manual pole pruner saw (up to 18’ long) $50 – $200
Pruning hand saw (up to 18” long) $20 – $50
Hand-held pruner or hedge shears (up to 10” long) $10 – $30
Steel lopper (up to 30” long) $20 – $50
Electric pole saw $50 – $180
Gas pole saw / power pruner rental $60 – $90 per day
Ladder (up to 18’) $80 – $300
Safety equipment $30 – $100
Dumping fees $30 – $100 per ton

Tree trimming FAQs

How often to trim trees?

  • Mature trees need trimming every 3 to 5 years.

  • Younger trees need trimming every 2 to 3 years.

  • Fruit trees require annual pruning.

  • Evergreens rarely need pruning.

When is the best time to trim trees?

The best time to trim trees is after all leaves have fallen, like in winter or in early spring. Trimming when the tree is dormant in cold weather reduces risks of insects or diseases invading the tree.

Do you tip the tree trimming crew?

Tree trimming crews don’t expect tips. You can tip $20 to $50 per person if the workers do an unexpectedly difficult job and exceed expectations. Alternatively, tree trimmers do appreciate cold drinks when working in hot weather.

Can trimming a tree hurt or kill it?

Trimming a tree incorrectly, at the wrong time, or too often will hurt or kill it. Consult an experienced arborist for advice when in doubt.

Can you trim a neighbor’s tree on your property?

You can legally trim a neighbor’s tree branches that overhang onto your property. However, you must stay on your property while trimming. Discuss it with your neighbor first. If you kill the tree or cause property damages, then you must pay for them. Planting a replacement tree costs $500 to $3,000.

Who is responsible for trimming trees near power lines?

The electric utility company is responsible for trimming trees near power lines, according to federal law in the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Utility companies must stop trees from falling on power lines and causing large-scale blackouts. Exceptions may apply, so contact the local electric company.

Getting quotes from tree trimming services

Before hiring a tree trimming service near you, be sure to:

  • Compare at least 3 estimates from different companies.

  • Verify that they have licenses, liability insurance, and surety bonds.

  • Search for experienced companies with ISA-certified arborists.

  • Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

  • Request a detailed bid and copies of the contract and warranty.

  • Beware of the cheapest quotes that can indicate low-quality work.

  • Never pay in full upfront.

  • Don’t hire companies that top trees, cutting all large branches down to the stubs. This method severely weakens trees and can kill them.

  • Never allow workers to use spikes for climbing that leave lasting tree damage.

  • Take photos of the tree before and after trimming in case of disputes.

Questions to ask

  • How many years have you been trimming trees?

  • Can I see a list of your references?

  • How do I contact the supervisor to discuss the job before cutting?

  • Do you prune trees according to ANSI standards?

  • How much working space will the crew need, and how many people will come?

  • What safety gear will the contractors wear?

  • How much of the trees need cutting and why?

  • Do local laws protect this type of tree? Will you get the extra permits needed?

  • What kind of equipment will your crew use, and how big is it?

  • How will you protect my lawn from damages made by large vehicles?

  • Will you need to remove any fencing to access the tree?

  • How long will my tree trim take?

  • Does this estimate include all materials, labor, and cleanup costs? 2