How Much Does an Arborist Cost? [2025 Data]

If you’re looking to give your trees expert-level TLC, hiring an arborist costs $875 on average. Depending on factors like the size and number of trees, the site’s accessibility, and the type of treatment, costs can range anywhere from $75 to $5,000. Let’s review how much an arborist costs to hire for help reviving a sick or diseased tree.

Arborist Cost Factors

Here are the main factors that will affect how much hiring an arborist costs.

Consultation Cost

Some arborists bill $75 to $150 for an initial consultation or inspection. However, some professionals will provide a consultation free of charge or waive the fee if you decide to hire them to complete the required service. For a comprehensive tree report covering multiple trees, the cost ranges from $450 to $700.

Hourly Rates

It’s uncommon for an arborist to charge an hourly rate, but if they do, it ranges from $75 to $200 per hour. Most arborists will charge homeowners by the service type and size instead of an hourly rate.

Service Type

The wide array of services an arborist offers means prices can vary significantly. Here are the most common services offered and their associated costs.

Tree Size and Type

The size and type of tree are vital factors that can significantly impact the cost of hiring an arborist. Larger trees require more time, labor, and specialized equipment to trim, treat, or remove. Mature trees with extensive root systems or taller heights are more complex to work on, which increases the price. Additionally, the type of tree can influence cost, as some species (such as hardwood varieties) are more difficult to prune or treat.

Site Accessibility

Site accessibility plays a crucial role in determining arborist costs. If a tree is close to a house, near power lines, in a tight yard, or otherwise difficult to access, it may require extra effort, specialized tools, or additional labor to ensure safe and efficient work. Limited access increases the complexity of the job, leading to higher service fees.

Ongoing Tree Care Costs

So, how much does an arborist cost? Aside from the initial service, consider factoring these ongoing costs into your total budget. 

Pest Control Visits

Regular pest control visits from an arborist cost around $40 to $70 per month. Pest control services, such as tree spraying, require more than a one-and-done approach, so it’s a good idea to schedule ongoing visits to stay proactive against bugs and diseases.

Regular Inspections

Scheduling regular inspections from an arborist costs around $75 to $150 on average. In-depth tree reports are significantly more expensive, costing up to $700.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Arborist

When it comes to tree maintenance, tackling smaller tasks like pruning can be manageable for experienced DIYers. However, even for these smaller tasks, it's important to have the right tools, such as a pole saw, which can cost anywhere from $40 to $600 or more. For complex jobs like sick tree diagnosis, it's best to leave it to the professionals due to the serious safety hazards involved. While the initial cost of hiring a professional may be higher, it can save you from potential injury or property damage in the long run.  

Hiring a certified local arborist not only saves you money on equipment costs, but also brings their valuable expertise. Their experience and specialized equipment can significantly reduce the time it takes to complete the job while ensuring the tree's health and safety. The peace of mind and assurance that your trees are well taken care of make hiring a professional well worth the extra investment.

Cost of Common Arborist Add-Ons

Bundling arborist and tree maintenance services can save you time and money. Here are a few add-ons to consider when booking your service:

• Tree transplanting costs: $300–$10,000 

• Lawn aeration costs: $75–$205

• Bush or hedge trimming costs: $450–$1,440

• Leaf removal costs: $190–$600

How You Can Save Money When Hiring an Arborist

Depending on the type and number of services, hiring an arborist can get pricey. However, there are a few ways you can help keep costs down:

• Bundle services: If you need multiple services like diagnosing multiple diseased trees, bundling them can reduce the total cost.

• Off-season discounts: Arborists may offer lower rates during fall and winter when demand decreases.

• Handle basic tasks yourself: Clearing debris or taking care of minor pruning tasks can help you save on labor costs.

• Compare quotes: Always get multiple estimates and compare service packages from different pros to ensure you're getting the best deal.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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