Worked example: a 45 ft maple, 18-inch trunk, medium difficulty
The height puts it in the medium band ($800 base). Diameter adds $270 (18 in × $15). A difficulty of 4 — near a fence but clear of wires — applies a 1.36× multiplier, bringing removal to about $1,455. Stump grinding runs $144 and haul-away about $143, for a total near $1,740. Expect written quotes between $1,400 and $2,250; anything under $1,000 for this tree should make you ask about insurance.
- • The same tree in an open field with no haul-away would price near $1,000.
- • Add a crane (tree over the house) and the day rate alone can exceed the entire removal price of a small tree.
- • Winter bookings (dormant season) often come in 10–20% cheaper in cold climates.
What actually moves the price
Three things: access, risk, and disposal. A bucket truck that can pull right up to the tree cuts labor hours dramatically. Risk — power lines, glass, roofs, pools — forces piece-by-piece rigging instead of felling. And disposal is real money: a 60 ft hardwood produces 2–4 tons of wood, which is why haul-away is a line item, not a courtesy.
- • Always verify liability insurance and workers' comp — tree work is one of the highest-injury trades.
- • Permits are required in many cities for trees above a diameter threshold; fines exceed the removal cost.
- • Get the stump decision in writing; leaving it saves $100–$400 now but complicates replanting and mowing.
FAQ
How much does it cost to remove a large tree?
A 60–80 ft tree typically costs $900–$1,800 to remove; over 80 ft with crane work, $1,800–$3,500 or more. Difficulty of access is a bigger driver than size alone.
Is stump grinding included in tree removal quotes?
Usually not. Stump grinding is a separate line item, typically $100–$400 depending on diameter, or roughly $2–$8 per inch of stump diameter.
Does homeowners insurance cover tree removal?
Only when the tree falls on a covered structure (house, fence) due to a covered peril like a storm. Removal of a standing but risky tree is almost always out of pocket.
When is the cheapest time of year to remove a tree?
Late winter in cold climates, when crews are idle and the ground is frozen (less lawn damage). Expect 10–20% off peak-season pricing.
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