How much does tree service & removal cost in 2026?

Trimming, stump grinding and safe removal of large or damaged trees.

✓ We don’t provide services — we research them, so you can choose with confidence.

Tree service covers pruning and trimming, removal of dead or dangerous trees, and stump grinding after a tree comes down. Tree work is skilled and risky, especially near houses, power lines and fences, so it should be done by an insured crew with the right equipment. Costs vary a lot by tree size, location and access. This page explains typical prices, when removal is the right call, and how to hire safely.

Typical tree service & removal prices in the US

JobTypical rangeNotes
Tree removalAvg $850 (most $385-$1,070)Average removal cost; large or hard-to-reach trees cost more
Tree trimming$150-$600 per treePruning and shaping, per tree
Stump grinding~$330 avgAverage cost to grind a stump below ground level
State ranges (removal)California $650-$1,300; New York $750-$1,100; Texas $300-$850; Illinois $535-$730Typical removal ranges by state

Typical US ranges based on published HomeAdvisor / Angi / Thumbtack cost guides, checked November 2026. Your quote will vary by city, tree size and job scope -- always get 2-3 written quotes.

What affects the price?

Price level by city

Labour is the biggest variable. These are broad levels, not quotes — the national ranges above are the starting point, and the direction below tells you which way your city usually moves them.

CityTypical price level vs US average
New York, NYHigher — big-city labour runs well above the US average
Los Angeles, CAAbout average for a big US city
Chicago, ILAbout average for a big US city
Houston, TXAbout average for a big US city
Phoenix, AZAbout average for a big US city
Dallas, TXAbout average for a big US city
San Antonio, TXAbout average for a big US city
San Diego, CAAbout average for a big US city
Austin, TXAbout average for a big US city
San Jose, CAHigher — big-city labour runs well above the US average
Local expert note: Never hire a crew that plans to top a healthy tree -- cutting the top off weakens it and causes weak regrowth. Proper pruning removes selected branches, and a reputable arborist will explain the plan before starting.

How to keep the cost down

  1. Confirm the company carries liability insurance and workers compensation
  2. Ask for a written quote that states whether cleanup and stump grinding are included
  3. Check reviews for safety, cleanup and how they handle nearby structures

Frequently asked questions about tree service & removal costs

Removal averages around $850, with most jobs falling between $385 and $1,070. The price depends on tree size, location and access. Typical state ranges are California $650-$1,300, New York $750-$1,100, Texas $300-$850 and Illinois $535-$730.

Trimming usually costs $150-$600 per tree, depending on size, species and how much work is needed. Large or hard-to-reach trees cost more, and the quote should state whether cleanup is included.

They are typical US ranges from published cost guides (HomeAdvisor, Angi, Thumbtack), checked November 2026. They are planning figures, not quotes — your actual price depends on your city, your home and the job. Always get two or three written quotes.

Read the full tree service & removal guide ›

✓ We don’t provide services — we research them, so you can choose with confidence.