How Much Does Professional Tree Trimming Cost?

We all hope that the trees on our property grow big, strong, and beautiful, and sometimes, a trim is the best way to help them thrive. The average cost of professional tree trimming services is $460, although it can go as low as $75 for small trees and upwards of $1,800 for a towering old oak. The pro you work with may suggest additional treatments to maintain the health of your trees. Below, we break down the cost of trimming a tree.

What Is the Difference Between Tree Trimming and Pruning?

Tree trimming and tree pruning are two different methods for maintaining healthy trees—but both services tend to cost the same. Before you invest in tree trimming services, know the differences to make the best decision regarding your trees. 

Tree Trimming

The main purpose of trimming a tree is to enhance the appearance of your tree. Tree trimming involves taming the most unruly branches, helping to prevent overgrowth. Maintaining your tree’s appearance also can help ensure that your tree receives ample sunlight, moisture, and nutrients for the most thriving yard possible. 

Tree Pruning

Pruning a tree helps keep your tree free from disease, dangerously precarious branches, and otherwise unhealthy growths that could harm your tree. Tree pruning is a common maintenance method for deciduous and ornamental trees and less common for evergreen and fruit trees. If you notice dead branches, it’s always a good idea to inspect your trees to determine if you need tree pruning.

Tree Trimming Cost Factors

When you're deciding who to hire for tree services, you'll find a range of landscape professionals who have the tools and knowledge to trim trees without damaging their long-term health. The extent of the tree trimming job and whether the tree is healthy will determine whether it's best to call a certified arborist or a standard tree service. In either case, professionals will weigh the following factors when putting together a quote.

Type of Tree

The tree experts in your area should have experience with the species commonly found in your region. Here are the cost ranges for several common types of trees:

• Pine: $200–$1,800

• Palm: $100–$1,500

• Oak: $180–$1,500

• Cypress: $150–$1,200

• Crepe Myrtle: $80–$400

If you have a protected tree species on your property, be aware that you will need permission from your local town, county, or state to trim or remove it. For example, according to Florida's Department of Environmental Protection, a permit is needed to alter mangrove trees.

Size of the Tree

The size of the tree affects the cost of trimming for a few reasons. On a basic level, there is usually more to trim on larger trees. In addition, very tall trees may require a skilled climber if a budget-friendly bucket truck won’t reach the top. 

• Under 25 Feet: $80–$350

• 25 to 50 Feet: $150–$800

• Over 50 Feet: $300–$1,800

Health of the Tree

Trees are susceptible to weather-related damage as well as health issues specific to their species and your region such as fungal disease, cracks, insect damage, and weak roots. All of these problems can increase the price and length of a tree trimming job.

For example, according to HomeAdvisor, tree pest control can add between $50 and $250 to the cost of tree trimming.

Time of Year

The most common time to trim a tree is toward the end of winter before early spring. At this time, it’s easier for professionals to identify the best branches to trim without leaves hiding the branches. It’s also generally better to trim trees when they’re dormant so that, come spring, they’re ready to flourish. Tree trimming during peak season, however, may cost hundreds of dollars more than trimming during the off-season, so keep this in mind as you plan your project.

Labor

Most tree service teams will quote a per-tree or per-project flat rate fee after the initial visit and inspection. For example, as mentioned above, a small tree may cost $80 to trim, while a larger tree can cost as much as $2,000. 

In some cases, you may receive a per-hour rate for labor, but this isn't common. Most companies that do this charge between $25 and $50 an hour per employee. 

Accessibility

Does the tree that needs trimming sit right up against your house? Is it entangled with other trees? How close is it to utility lines? How accessible a tree is for trimming will sway the cost, especially if specialized equipment is needed.

If your tree’s branches are impeding on local power lines, it’s a good idea to call your local utility company for advice. Some companies will even trim or cut down your tree for free if it's in everyone's best interest.

Location

The cost of living in your area and the amount of local competition will also affect the price of tree trimming. Contractors will incorporate travel time into their quotes, especially if you live in a remote area. The type of trees in your region can also affect the price. For example, tree trimming in the Miami area averages $350, while in Phoenix, it will cost an average of $600. 

Number of Trees

Since they’re already going to be at your property with all their equipment, contractors will often offer you a discount if you get several trees trimmed at the same time. On average, the savings is around $100 off each tree.

Additional Costs to Consider

Your final bill may include these extra charges.

Tree Pruning

Pruning costs anywhere from $400 to $800 per tree. Remember, tree pruning helps remove dead or problematic branches of a tree, whereas trimming focuses on the aesthetics of your tree. If you need to remove diseased or precarious branches, you’ll likely need to consider tree pruning services on top of your trimming service.

Tree Cutting

If you have trees on your property that are beyond the point of saving, you’ll need to have them removed. Tree-cutting services range between $400 and $1,200 and depend on the size of the tree, its location, and accessibility.

Tree Inspection

Let's say you've called your tree trimmer because you're concerned about a possible fungus or pest problem. The initial inspection to determine deeper health problems can add between $30 and $300 to the total. Your contractor may need to draw up a long-term health plan for the tree to keep it strong.

Cleanup

Your contractor may add between $25 and $100 for dumping fees when removing large branches. You can also bring in a lawn maintenance team after trimming for a fall or spring landscape cleanup that costs from $100 to $250. 

Tipping

While not expected, it is kind to tip tree trimmers or removal specialists. You can opt for the typical 15% to 20% for a one-time visit, individual tips per employee, or holiday bonuses if they provide services throughout the season.

Pests

If your trees are infested by insects, fungi, and other pests, tree pest control costs between $50 and $250 on average. You may need to invest in monthly treatments to rid your trees of pests and conduct an inspection to determine whether the pest control treatments worked. Factor in any recurring costs to your total budget to avoid hidden surprises.

Cost to Trim a Tree Yourself

Unlike pruning—which only requires that you remove minimal parts of a branch—trimming a tree yourself can be dangerous for both you and the plant. Trimming may require climbing and removing heavy or cumbersome parts of the tree. 

Professionals use bracing systems to keep large branches from damaging surrounding areas. In other words, this is a job best left to those with training, experience, and the right gear.

Cost to Install It Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor

The tools to trim a tree—from the ladders to the specialized saws—can cost up to $1,100, which isn't worth the investment unless you plan to use them on a regular basis.

Cost of Common Tree Trimming Add-Ons

If your trees could use additional help, you may be able to save money by booking the services as add-ons to be done the same day as the tree trimming. Deep-root fertilization sends crucial nutrients deep into the earth, while topping and pruning focus on specific areas of the tree to encourage growth. Here’s a look at the typical costs:

• Deep Root Fertilization: $50–$300 a tree

• Topping: $400–$800 a tree

• Pruning a Tree: $200–$800 a tree

• Tree Removal: $200–$2,000 a tree

• Stump Removal: $100–$150 a stump

How You Can Save Money on Tree Trimming Costs

Maintaining healthy trees with regular care is the best way to save money on all tree services in the long run, including tree trimming. You’ll also likely save money if you call for a quote at the earliest sign of a problem such as storm damage or pests—rather than allowing the problem to get worse and, thus, more expensive.

Lastly, don't be afraid to shop around. Request at least three quotes from tree service specialists before deciding on a contractor.

When to Trim a Tree

The best time to trim a tree is during the tree’s dormant season. This season varies depending on where you live, but most regions will fall somewhere in the late fall to late winter. Avoid trimming trees when they’re beginning to bud. 

While fall and winter are often the best for trimming a tree, if you see any diseased or broken branches, do not hesitate to take action. Proactive tree care helps keep your lawn safe and vibrant and can be done any time of the year.