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Tree removal cost estimator

Cutting, rigging, hauling and stump grinding priced by trunk size, height and access.

By the LocalServiceHQ editorial team
Updated Oct 29, 2026
Formulas and sources listed below
Prices checked Oct 2026
Your job
Location
Stump grinding
Your estimate
Typical total
—
cutting, rigging, hauling and stump
Cost per inch of trunk
—
helps compare bids
Typical range for this job: —
How it adds upTypical
Cutting and riggingby trunk diameter and height
—
Hauling and disposal$150–$400 per load
—
Stump grinding$6–$12 per inch of diameter
—
Permit or traffic controlsome cities require a tree permit
—
US tree removal prices for October 2026: about $8–$20 per inch of trunk diameter, with a $400–$850 minimum. Tight access or power lines add 25%, height over 60 ft adds 45%, and stump grinding is usually a separate line.
Ask whether the price includes stump grinding and hauling. Those are often quoted separately.
Photo via Pexels

How the math works

Diameter
Base
DBH under 12 in $850 · 12-24 in $1,500 · 24-36 in $2,800 · 36+ $4,500
Measured at chest height.
Height factor
Cost
under 30 ft ×0.85 · over 60 ft ×1.45
Tall trees need climbing, rigging or a crane.
Access
Cost
near house or lines: +25%
Rigging and careful sectioning take longer.
Stump
Add-on
$150 to $500 typical
Stump grinding is usually a separate line.

Common starting points

Common US tree removal jobs at the typical rate.

Tap a preset in the calculator above to load a typical job, then adjust the numbers to match your site.
Starting points: Small 10 in tree · Medium 24 in tree · Large 36 in tree · Large, near house · Very large 48 in, over 60 ft

Rather hire it out?

See installed prices and permit rules for tree removal cost estimator.

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How to use the tree removal cost estimator

Measure the trunk, note the height and access, then compare bids that include stump grinding.

1
Identify the tree
Species matter: some are more brittle and need more careful rigging.
2
Measure the trunk
Diameter at chest height is the standard starting point for pricing.
3
Check the access
Driveway space, slope and nearby structures change the method.
4
Confirm insurance
Ask for a certificate of insurance before work begins.

Mistakes that cost homeowners money

!
Hiring the cheapest bid from a crew without insurance.
!
Assuming stump grinding is included when it is not.
!
Ignoring permit rules for protected or heritage trees.
!
Leaving the wood on site, which some quotes assume and others charge for.

Tree removal cost FAQ

How much does tree removal cost?

Removal runs $850 for a small tree to $4,500 or more for a very large one. A 24 in diameter tree typically costs about $1,500, and tight access or height adds 25 to 45 percent.

Mostly by trunk diameter, height and access. Rigging near a house or power lines, crane use and hauling distance all add to the price.

Usually not. Stump grinding adds $150 to $500 depending on diameter and depth, and hauling the grindings is sometimes extra.

Some cities require a permit for trees above a certain diameter or for protected species. Check before scheduling the work.

Only small trees in open areas. Large trees near structures are dangerous and usually require insurance and a licensed arborist.

Most quotes include hauling. Some homeowners keep the wood for firewood, which should be agreed before the work starts.

Using the calculator defaults, small 10 in tree gives Typical total: $940 and Cost per inch of trunk: $94.00, with a typical range $642 to $1,268. Change the waste allowance, material or thickness to match your site.

Using the calculator defaults, very large 48 in, over 60 ft gives Typical total: $6,957 and Cost per inch of trunk: $144.94, with a typical range $5,167 to $10,436. Change the waste allowance, material or thickness to match your site.