Tree Removal Cost 2026: What You'll Pay to Take Down a Tree
Whether it's a dead oak threatening your roof, a massive pine dropping needles into your gutters year-round, or a tree that's just outgrown its spot, tree removal is one of those home expenses that catches people off guard. It's not something you budget for — until you need it.
The national average for tree removal in 2026 is $400 to $1,800, with most homeowners spending around $900. But that average hides a huge range. A small ornamental tree might cost $200 to remove, while a 100-foot hardwood near power lines could run $3,000–$5,000+.
Tree Removal Cost by Size
| Tree Height | Average Cost | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $200–$500 | Dogwood, small maples, ornamental trees |
| Medium (30–60 ft) | $500–$1,200 | Most maples, birch, medium oaks |
| Large (60–80 ft) | $1,200–$2,000 | Large oaks, pines, sweet gum |
| Very large (80+ ft) | $2,000–$5,000+ | Mature oaks, tulip poplars, sequoia |
Height isn't the only factor. Trunk diameter, canopy spread, number of branches, lean angle, and proximity to structures all affect the complexity — and the price.
Stump Removal: Don't Forget This Cost
Most tree removal quotes do not include stump removal. That's a separate job, and it typically costs $150–$500 per stump, depending on size and root system. Here are your options:
- Stump grinding: $150–$400. A machine grinds the stump 6–12 inches below ground level. The roots remain but will decompose over time. This is the most popular option.
- Full stump and root removal: $300–$500+. The entire stump and major roots are excavated. More disruptive to your yard but necessary if you're building or planting something new in that spot.
- Chemical stump removal: $50–$100 for materials, but takes 4–6 weeks. You drill holes, add potassium nitrate, and wait for the stump to soften enough to chop apart.
Emergency Tree Removal
When a tree falls on your house during a storm at 2 AM, you're paying premium emergency rates — typically 50–100% more than standard pricing. Emergency tree removal averages $1,500–$5,000, sometimes more if heavy equipment or utility coordination is needed.
The silver lining: homeowner's insurance usually covers storm-related tree removal when the tree damages a structure (house, garage, fence). If a tree falls in your yard but doesn't hit anything? Most policies won't pay. Check your policy's tree removal sublimit — it's often $500–$1,000 per tree, up to $5,000 total.
Do You Need a Permit?
This depends entirely on where you live. Many cities and counties have tree protection ordinances that require permits to remove trees above a certain size — often anything with a trunk diameter over 6–10 inches. Permit costs range from $25 to $500.
Cities known for strict tree ordinances include Atlanta, Portland, Seattle, and many California municipalities. Rural areas typically have few or no restrictions. Always check with your local planning department before scheduling removal — fines for unpermitted tree removal can run $500–$10,000+.
Best Time of Year to Remove Trees
Want to save money? Schedule tree removal during late fall or winter (November through February in most regions). Here's why:
- Reduced demand — Tree services are less busy, and many offer off-season discounts of 10–25%.
- No leaves — Deciduous trees are lighter and easier to manage without foliage, which can reduce labor costs.
- Frozen ground — Heavy equipment causes less damage to your lawn on frozen soil.
- Better visibility — Without leaves, arborists can better assess the tree's structure and plan the safest removal.
The worst time? Right after a major storm, when every tree service within 50 miles is booked solid and charging emergency rates.
How to Save on Tree Removal
- Get at least three quotes — Pricing varies significantly between companies.
- Bundle multiple trees — If you need more than one tree removed, negotiate a package rate.
- Keep the wood — Some services charge less if they don't have to haul away the wood. If you've got a fireplace, free firewood is a bonus.
- Check for utility assistance — If a tree threatens power lines, your utility company may remove it for free or contribute to the cost.
Tree removal is just one part of maintaining your home's exterior. For related projects, check out our roof replacement cost guide, our gutter installation guide, and use our renovation cost calculator to plan your full budget.