Tree Transplanting Costs: Everything You Need to Know [2026 Data]

In 2026, the average cost of tree transplanting is $800 nationwide. Most homeowners pay between $300 and $1,000, depending on the tree's size, age, and site accessibility. Costs can reach as high as $10,000 for large or complex projects, with tree size, site conditions, and transport distance being the primary cost drivers.

Moving a Tree Cost Factors: What Affects the Price?

Tree moving service pricing is typically handled on a case-by-case basis because so many variables affect the final cost. The sections below break down the major cost factors to help you evaluate whether transplanting your tree makes financial sense.

Size

Tree size is the primary cost driver for transplanting, with a small 5- to 10-foot ornamental tree costing around $300 to $500 to move within the same yard. Trees with a trunk diameter over 10 inches run $1,500 to $3,500 for an in-yard move or $5,000 or more to relocate miles away. 

Mega-trees with a trunk diameter over 24 inches fall in the $3,500 to $10,000 or more range and often require unconventional equipment such as cranes or customized frames to protect large root balls during transport. When a mega-tree must travel a long distance from a difficult-to-access site, costs can exceed $50,000. 

Here is how transplanting costs break down by tree size and distance:

Distance of Move

Distance is a significant cost factor in tree transplanting, with a simple in-yard hand move starting around $300 and long-distance transport of 50 or more miles rising to $1,500 or more. The larger the tree, the more dramatically distance amplifies the total cost, so relocating a big tree across the state will cost far more than moving a small one the same route.

Equipment

Professional arborists dig out small trees by hand, but larger specimens require a hydraulic tree spade, which adds at least $500 to $1,000 to the project cost. When a truck is also needed to transport the tree offsite after tarping and securing it, the total for removing and relocating a larger tree often reaches $10,000 or more.

Old and New Location Prep

Site preparation at either the original or new location adds to your overall transplanting cost, with hilly terrain, overgrown grass, or generally unprepared land all driving up the labor hours billed. Depending on the severity of the conditions, expect to pay for one to 10 additional hours of work at the pro's hourly rate, though prepping the new site yourself before they arrive is one of the most effective ways to reduce that expense.

Cleanup

Tree transplanting generates a significant mess at both the original and new locations, including soil, debris, and tree-related waste, and pros must plug the hole left behind before moving on to the destination. Once the tree is replanted, remaining tasks include yard cleanup, soil packing, and a thorough inspection to confirm the tree is acclimating properly. Pros typically handle all of this, but pitching in before or after they arrive is a practical way to reduce your labor costs.

Accessibility

Arborists look for potential hurdles to overcome in the environment when tree transplanting.

Some stumbling blocks that may increase their rate include:

• Obstructions in the original or new site, such as power lines, underground utilities, and large rocks

• Having to trim back branches

• Difficult site access

Conditions

Pros usually charge more if the ground conditions are less than ideal. They'll be looking for dry, easy-to-dig soil on a level site. Clay soils are hard to dig, and if the soil is frozen or wet and muddy, this makes things challenging, too.

Ongoing Costs to Transplant a Tree: What Should You Budget For?

Once trees are transplanted successfully, consider investing in these ongoing costs to keep them healthy and thriving.

Follow-Up Support and Aftercare

Follow-up aftercare visits typically cost $100 to $350 per visit and are especially important during the first year or two after transplanting, when the tree is still establishing itself in its new location. Services commonly included in these visits are watering, root fertilization, and physical support to help the tree thrive long-term.

Tree Trimming and Pruning Costs

The cost of professional tree trimming typically runs from $270 to $1,800 per visit, depending on the size and number of trees being serviced. Regular pruning supports your transplanted tree's long-term health and appearance while also reducing the risk of property damage from weak or dead branches.

Why You Should Hire a Pro to Transplant a Tree

You can save money by transplanting a tree yourself, but we wouldn't recommend it. Moving trees requires specialized equipment, and it also comes with risks, such as severe injury, if things go wrong. Hire an arborist or professional tree removal service to ensure the job gets done safely and efficiently.

Here's why it's ideal to hire a tree removal pro

While it's possible to DIY tree removal, hiring a pro is the best option for these reasons:

• Professionals have the right equipment, such as hydraulic tree spades, and the knowledge to use it effectively to complete the job.

• Navigating around utilities can be challenging and pose a safety concern, which pros are equipped to handle.

• Big, mature trees are more likely to survive when moved by a professional.

• Experts know the best time of year to move different species of trees. They can also tailor their approach to the tree's age, type, and current health.

• Pros can provide you with advice on appropriate and required aftercare.

• Pros are licensed and insured, and they'll handle necessary permits.

If you want to DIY a tree transplant

While it's best to hire a pro for this project, you might be able to DIY in the following situations:

• The trunk is 2 inches in diameter or less, and the root ball is small enough to manage with hand tools.

• The tree is dormant, which lowers the risk of transplant shock.

• It shows no signs of stress or disease.

• The location is clear of utilities, and you have a clear access path.

• You have the ability to lift the intact root ball without breaking it.

How Much Are Add-On Costs for Tree Transplanting?

Additional costs for transplanting a tree depend on the specific service you choose, with tree planting starting at $150 and going up to $2,000. Bundling add-on services with your tree transplanting project can save you both time and money.

Here are additional costs to consider: 

• Cost to plant a tree: $150–$2,000

• Cost to remove a tree: $200–$2,000

• Tree inspection cost: $150–$550

• Tree injections to combat pests and disease: $50–$130

• Stump removal cost: $180–$560

• Leaf removal cost: $190–$590

Ways You Can Save Money on Your Tree Transplanting Cost

Consider implementing these cost-saving measures during the tree transplant process.

• Opt for smaller trees: Smaller trees are easier and less expensive to transplant since they require less labor, equipment, and resources.

• DIY small transplants : If the tree is small and manageable, consider doing the transplant yourself to save on labor fees.

• Get multiple quotes: Compare prices from different tree transplanting services to ensure you're getting the best deal.

• Bundle services: If you need additional landscaping work, bundling services like tree pruning or stump removal with transplanting can lower the overall cost.

• Prepare the site: Clearing the area where the tree will be transplanted beforehand can save time and reduce labor costs.

• Use local services: Hiring local tree transplanting companies can cut down on travel fees, especially for larger trees that require special equipment.

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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