How much does tree trimming cost?
How much does tree trimming cost?
$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
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.
| 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 |
Average cost of tree trimming
The following table shows the average cost to trim a tree:
| 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.
| Tree height | Average cost | Tree types |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 feet | $100 – $500 |
|
| 30 – 60 feet | $200 – $900 |
|
| More than 60 feet | $400 – $1,800 |
|
Tree trimming prices by type
The following table shows the average cost to trim a tree 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.
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 height | Average cost | Tree types |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 feet | $100 – $400 |
|
| 30 – 60 feet | $200 – $800 |
|
| Over 60 feet | $350 – $1,600 |
|
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.
Don’t remove more than 20% to 30% of the tree each year because extreme pruning weakens the plant.
Root pruning cost
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.
Cleanup – Tree 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.
| Service | Average cost | Pros and cons |
|---|---|---|
| Topping a tree | $150 – $500 |
|
| Tree crown reduction | $250 – $1,300 |
|
*Total costs depend on the tree size, health, and accessibility.
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.
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
The following chart shows the average tree trimming cost 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
Tree removal costs $300 to $2,000, depending on the tree size, type, and location.
Tree stump removal costs $100 to $400, according to the method.
Stump grinding costs $120 to $400 per stump and is the most common method.
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.
| 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.
Arborists advise against trimming in summer because that’s when some pests attack a tree through the pruning cuts.
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.
Trimming trees that touch power lines is dangerous and requires a professional.
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