The Highlights
- For removal and cleanup of a large tree with large limbs (40+ feet in height) you should expect the cost of tree removal to be over $1,000 with a reputable, fully insured tree removal company.
- Tree removal services for a small tree generally begin at $500 and up, including debris removal and cleanup.
- Our tree removals generally run from $350 to $2,500 depending on size and complexity.
- The factors that affect pricing from a professional tree removal company include: tree size, debris removal, proximity to structures or driveways, tree health, and even tree species.
So, How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
Tree removal costs will vary dramatically based on your region, tree size, proximity to buildings or other property, and how detailed your local tree removal companies are.
For example, working with your neighbor who does DIY tree removal on the side – and simply lets them fall before handing it off to you for the clean-up – will generally cost less than a tree removal service like Sunny Slope that may deploy a crane to remove the tree, an industrial wood chipper, and large mats to protect your landscaping or lawn.
Our tree removal projects are always quoted as a whole, but it’s safe to say that most of our tree removal work runs between $350 and $2,500 depending on complexity. For specifics, we’d love to come out and give you a quote on the spot – or you can learn more about the cost to remove trees with some real-life examples below.
Real-World Prices to Remove a Tree: Examples
As a Lancaster-based tree removal company that provides tree pruning, tree removals, and emergency tree removal services throughout Central PA, we thought it would be helpful to put together some examples from recent tree removal projects in our area.
Tree removal costs in your area may differ significantly, but as a professional tree service company with the equipment and experience to tackle almost any project, these prices and details may help you better gauge what to expect when you set out to remove trees.
How much does tree removal cost? These projects are a great representation of the cost of tree removal in the mid-Atlantic region.
Tree Removal Cost Example 1: Large Maple Immediately Next to a Patio and Home
Because of the proximity to the homeowner’s patio and home, this larger tree removal project involved removing the maple’s crown piece by piece and segmenting the tree trunk, bringing large pieces down with a crane and rigging to avoid damaging the patio or structure.
It also involved debris removal and stump grinding, although the homeowner kept some of the large wood segments to split for burning in their wood stove.
Price: $3,000
For background, Maple trees tend to have extensive root systems that run close to the surface, meaning they frequently cause damage to patios, driveways, and even foundations when growing too close to buildings.
Tree Removal Cost Example 2: Large Pine Tree Near Utility Lines
In this case, a large pine tree had been damaged in a recent windstorm and was leaning against another tree, both of which were dangerously close to a utility pole and lines.
In this case, rigging helped us to bring the tree down in a safe direction, where we executed wood chipping and removal of all debris. In this case, tree stump removal was not part of the project.
Price: $2,000
Tree Removal Cost Example 3: Arborvitae Hedgerow Next To Road
A long hedgerow of arborvitae – approximately 100 trees over 35’ in height – needed to be removed next to a road. In this case, we not only had to tackle the tree removals, but we also had to bring in extra people-power for traffic management on the road nearby.
And, Sunny Slope took care of stump removal for all approximately 100 trees.
Price: $5,750
Tree Removal Example 4: Large White Oak Near Driveway
This expansive white oak took some time to bring down because it involved so much rigging, meaning we use ropes and pulleys so safely lower and control the descent of limbs and trunk segments. This tree was next to a driveway, and we didn’t want large limbs falling and damaging the asphalt.
In addition, this tree removal covered the cost of taking apart and then re-building a split-rail fence on the owner’s property!
We also took extra time to cut this hardwood into firewood lengths for the owner to split, though we removed some larger logs that were too big for the property owner’s log-splitter.
Price: $1,800
Tree Removal Example 5: Medium Hackberry in Front Yard
Smaller trees are generally easier and faster for tree removal companies to take down, and in this case we were able to bring this medium-sized hackberry tree down right into the front yard. We then removed and chipped all of the limbs and ground down the stump to create a pristine yard once again.
Price: $950
Tree Removal Example 6: Emergency Tree Removal from Utility Lines
Again, a smaller 30-foot tree was leaning against some utility lines. Thankfully in this emergency tree removal situation, the tree was not leaning on the higher main power lines, but simply “bowing” the lower phone and telecommunications lines.
Price: $800
Tree Removal Example 7: Dead Beach Tree Removal
Dead trees can be tricky, requiring attention to detail due to the risk of limbs breaking loose unexpectedly. In this case, we took down a medium-to-large beach tree in a homeowner’s yard, with no rigging required.
Price: $1,500
What Is the Average Cost to Remove a Tree in 2023?
Average tree removal costs, according to U.S. News & World Report and Mallory Micetich, a home expert at Angi.com, suggest tree removals can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000 per tree, with an average cost of $750 in the U.S.
That sounds about right based on our experience as a Lancaster, PA tree removal company, and given Angi’s deep connections to home service providers nationwide, supports the prices we generally quote for our tree removal customers.
Factors That Affect Tree Removal Costs
Health or Condition of the Tree
The health or condition of a tree is a significant factor that affects the cost of its removal.
Healthy trees are often easier and safer to remove compared to diseased or infested trees. Diseased trees may have weakened limbs or trunks, making them unpredictable and hazardous to remove. Additionally, if a tree is infested with pests, special precautions may need to be taken to prevent the spread of the infestation. The extra time, equipment, and expertise required to safely remove a diseased or infested tree can significantly increase the cost of removal.
The Tree’s Size
The size of a tree, including its height and diameter, plays a crucial role in determining the cost of removal.
Larger trees require more people-power and specialized equipment to safely remove, and the process is often more time-consuming. On the other hand, smaller trees typically require less effort and resources to remove, making them less expensive to deal with. A professional from Sunny Slope can provide an accurate cost estimate for its removal and help you understand how size affects your quote.
Proximity to Buildings or Structure
The proximity of a tree to buildings, structures, or other valuable assets can significantly impact the cost of tree removal.
Trees that are close to structures require a higher level of precision and expertise to ensure that no damage occurs during the removal process, meaning that more experienced crews and specialized equipment are needed, which can drive up the cost. Additionally, if any permits or additional insurance are required due to the proximity to structures or local tree removal laws, this can also increase the cost.
Proximity to Power Lines or Utility Lines
Similar to the proximity to buildings, the tree’s location and closeness of a tree to power lines or other utility lines can significantly affect the cost of removal.
Working near power lines is extremely dangerous and often requires specialized training, equipment, and sometimes utility company involvement to ensure safe removal. The added risks and steps involved in removing trees near utility lines can significantly increase the cost of the project.
Tree Species
When removing a tree, the species of a tree can also influence the cost.
Some tree species have wood that is harder or more difficult to work with, which can make the removal process more labor-intensive. Additionally, some species have extensive root systems that require additional effort to remove completely, driving up stump removal costs.
It’s advisable to consult a tree removal professional who can identify the tree species and provide a more accurate cost estimate based on the specific characteristics of the tree in question.
Additional, Optional Services Involved In A Tree Removal Cost
Stump Grinding or Stump Removal
Stump grinding is a service that removes the visible portion of the stump and a few inches below the soil level. This service allows for easier landscaping post-removal and eliminates a tripping hazard. The cost of stump grinding is usually determined by the diameter of the stump and is an additional charge on top of the tree removal cost.
At Sunny Slope, our stump removals generally begin at around $125.
Cutting Into Firewood Lengths
If you want to keep your downed tree for firewood, that’s just fine with us, and it can actually reduce the cost of tree removal.
We take your tree down then use a chainsaw to cut the trunk and limbs into 12″ to 24″ length based on your needs. You can then use your own log-splitter or hand-split the wood.
The cost for this service will depend on the size of the tree and the amount of wood to be cut.
Log Splitting
Log splitting CAN go hand-in-hand with cutting the tree into firewood lengths, but extra service involves splitting the cut logs into usable firewood, making it ready for your fireplace or wood stove.
Like cutting into firewood lengths, the cost for log splitting will depend on the amount of wood to be split. Many of our wood-burning customers prefer to do their own log-splitting, but we have the equipment and capabilities to help.
Fallen Tree Removal
Fallen tree removal is a service that simply entails removing a tree that has already fallen due to storms, decay, or other factors.
The cost for fallen tree removal is usually lower than removing a standing tree as it usually requires less time and equipment. However, the price can vary based on the size of the tree and the ease of access to the site.
Emergency Tree Removal
We do emergency tree removal when a tree poses an immediate threat to property or safety, often following storms or unexpected collapses.
Due to the urgent nature of this service, emergency removal is typically more expensive than standard tree removal. The cost with a tree removal company will depend on the size of the tree, the level of danger involved, and the urgency of the situation.
Tree Trimming and Tree Maintenance
While not a part of tree removal, tree trimming and maintenance are great services to consider for keeping your remaining trees healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
Regular trimming and maintenance can even prevent the need for tree removal in the future. Sunny Slopes’ pricing for these services will vary based on the size and number of trees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal Prices
What do you do with tree stumps once the tree is removed?
Once we remove a tree, the stump that remains can be handled in several ways, though most of our customers want it ground down and covered in topsoil.
- Stump grinding uses a large grinding machine to grind the stump down to ground level or below, which allows for easy covering with soil or sod.
- Chemical stump removers can be used to accelerate the decay of a stump, making it soft for easier removal by hand later on.
- If you’re not in a hurry, you can allow the stump to decay naturally, though this process will take years.
- Some homeowners choose to use the stump creatively by turning it into a plant stand, carving it into a piece of art, or incorporating it into their landscape design in other ways!
When is it safe to cut down a tree myself (DIY tree removal)?
Cutting down a tree can be a dangerous job and is usually a job best left to trained professionals. If you’re working with small trees, however, in an open area, and you have the necessary knowledge, experience, and equipment, it might be safe to cut it down yourself.
It’s crucial to understand the risks involved, particularly with large trees, dead trees, or when there are multiple trees around. If in doubt, it’s always safer to hire a professional tree removal service.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a tree stump?
The fastest way to get rid of a tree stump is through professional stump grinding. Good tree removal companies like Sunny Slope Tree Service will have a stump grinder, a powerful machine that uses a rotating disc to chip away wood, reducing the stump to mulch and sawdust.
Your Green Sanctuary Awaits with Sunny Slope’s Professional Tree Removal Services!
Whether you’ve got a dead tree threatening your home or are just wondering if it’s time to remove a tree, we can help. With over 25 years of experience and extensive professional tree trimming equipment on hand, no task is too big or small for the seasoned experts at Sunny Slope Tree Services.
Our dedicated team is here to provide a free quote for tree removals in Lancaster, Chester, and Berks counties… plus a seamless, hassle-free tree removal experience leaving your property in pristine condition.
Call to learn more and schedule a free visit today!
