How Much Does Bush Trimming Cost in 2024?

On average, bush trimming costs around $275, but most homeowners pay between $110 and $440, depending on the size of the bushes and other factors.

You can’t maintain just your lawn while neglecting your bushes and letting them grow out of control. An important part of lawn care, bush trimming costs around $6 to $16 per bush on average, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $875.

The actual cost will vary based on the size and type of bush being trimmed, as well as the number of bushes to be trimmed.

Average bush trimming costs in 2024

National average cost$275
Typical price range$110 – $440
Extreme low-end cost$30
Extreme high-end cost$875

The national average cost of bush trimming is around $275, or between $48 and $75 per hour. However, the actual cost will still depend on the type and size of the bush being trimmed, as well as the number of bushes that need to be trimmed.

While most landscaping companies charge by the hour, some may charge by the bush. If you have a lot of bushes you want to be trimmed, remember to ask your landscaper about this so you can get an accurate estimate of the trimming cost.

Bush trimming cost estimator by size

gardener trimming bushes with hedge shears
Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License

Similar to a hedge, the larger the size of the bush, the more work it requires and the more you’ll have to pay for the trimming services. From small 2-foot bushes to larger ones taller than 6 feet, the cost of bush trimming can vary greatly.

For a small bush that’s less than 2 feet tall, you can expect to pay around $3 to $6 for trimming. If the bush is taller than 2 feet but less than 6 feet, you can expect to pay anywhere from $6 to $16.

Some lawn care companies may charge minimum service fees or a flat rate for trimming a certain number of bushes. For example, they may give you a quote for a flat rate of $60 to $160 for trimming 10 bushes.

Bush sizeTypical cost range per bush
Small (less than 2 feet)$3 – $6
Medium to large (2 to 6 feet)$6 – $16
Extra large (higher than 6 feet)$16 – $35

Other factors that affect cost

Apart from the size of the bushes, a few other factors can affect the total cost of your bush trimming project.

Type of bush

Certain shrubs are more challenging when it comes to trimming. Take boxwood shrubs, for instance. These bushes have a lot of tiny leaves and branches that require extra time and effort for trimming. As a result, the trimming costs may increase.

Many lawn care companies maintain a standard rate for all shrub types. But if you want to avoid any surprises, remember to ask your landscaper beforehand about any potential surcharges for certain types of bushes.

Number of bushes

Another factor that can influence the overall cost of trimming is the number of bushes requiring the service. So, if you have a small yard with only a few shrubs, trimming costs may be relatively low compared to a large yard with numerous bushes.

Considering that trimming costs for medium to large bushes (between 2 and 6 feet in height) are around $6 to $16 per bush, the following are the typical costs depending on the number of shrubs to be trimmed:

Number of bushesTypical cost range (2 to 6 feet tall)
5$30 – $80
10$60 – $160
15$90 – $240
20$120 – $320
25$150 – $400
30$180 – $480

Note: While most professional landscapers charge their service fees based on quantity, they often offer discounts for large amounts.

Condition of the bush

It will take longer to trim if the bush is overgrown or has a lot of dead leaves and branches. This will likely result in a higher cost. While it’s a good idea to trim your bushes regularly, you may be able to save money by trimming them less often if they are not too overgrown.

Time of year

The time of year also can affect the cost of bush trimming. Many landscapers charge more in the spring and summer when demand is higher. You may be able to save money by scheduling regular visits from a landscaper and having them trim your bushes during their off-season.

Level of detail

The amount of time it takes to trim a bush can vary depending on the level of detail required. If you want your bushes to be trimmed into a specific shape, it will take longer and cost more. Typically, the more complex the shape, the higher the cost.

On the other hand, if you just want your bushes to be trimmed down, this will take less time and cost less. Most landscapers can give you an estimate of how long it will take to trim your bushes based on the level of detail you want.

Location of the bush

From easy-to-reach bushes to those that are hard to get to, the location of the bush also can affect the cost.

If the bushes are near the house or in a hard-to-reach spot, it will take longer to trim and will likely cost more. Open fields with bushes that are spread out will be the quickest and likely result in a lower labor cost.

Hauling away debris

Some landscapers will include the cost of hauling away debris in their estimate, while others may charge an extra fee. If you have a lot of bushes that need to be trimmed, this can add up quickly.

You can save money on this task by cleaning up the debris yourself. However, you must check with your local municipality to see if there are any restrictions on disposing of green waste. Dump fees also can add up, so it’s important to consider it when deciding whether it’s worth it to dispose of the debris yourself.

In addition to bush trimming, you may need a few other services offered by your lawn care pro. While not required, some of these landscaping services can save you time and money in the long run if they are done at the same time as bush trimming.

Hedge trimming

Hedges require more precision than bushes, so the cost is usually a bit higher. On average, professional hedge trimming services cost around $317 to $936, depending on factors like the length and height of your hedges.

If you’re hesitant because of the hedge trimming costs, you may buy a hedge trimmer and do the trimming yourself. But only go this route if you have the necessary skills.

Shrub and bush removal

If you’ve neglected your shrubs for a long time, the best solution might be to start from scratch. But instead of hacking away at your bushes with a chainsaw, it’s better to hire a lawn care pro to do the job on your behalf. Professional shrub and bush removal services can help you cut down and uproot your shrubs safely and efficiently.

Tree trimming

Trees can be a beautiful addition to any property, but they also can pose a danger if they’re not properly maintained. Professional tree trimming costs can vary depending on the size of the tree and the extent of the work required.

Tree removal

If you have a diseased, dead, or large tree in your yard that poses a danger to you and your property, the only solution is to remove the tree entirely. The average cost of tree removal will depend on the tree’s size and condition.

Another factor that can affect removal costs would be whether the tree is near power lines or other structures. Plus, you also may need stump removal, which is usually provided by tree service companies.

Lawn mowing

Your newly trimmed bushes would look better if your lawn is neat and tidy as well. Lawn mowing typically costs between $35 and $100, depending on the size of your lawn. However, mowing can be bundled with other services for a discount. And, if you have a regular lawn mowing schedule, you may be able to get a lower rate.

Mulching

A great way to protect your plants and keep your landscaping looking neat and tidy is to apply mulch. Typically, mulch costs an average of $85, with most homeowners spending between $45 and $130 per cubic yard. While adding these clippings may cost extra, it can save you money in the long run by preventing your plants from needing to be replaced as often.

Yard cleaning

After the trimming is done, you may want to consider having your yard cleaned up. You can expect to pay between $174 and $436 for yard cleanup services, depending on the size of your yard and the amount of debris that needs to be removed.

Pro cost vs. DIY cost

You can save money by trimming your own bushes, but remember to consider the time and effort required to do the job right. You also must factor in the cost of the tools you’ll need (if you don’t already own them).

Below are the tools and equipment you’ll need for DIY bush trimming:

Type of DIY equipmentAverage cost
Safety glasses$13
Work gloves$12
Pruning shears$14
Rake$32
Tarp$11
Cordless bush trimmer$83
Total equipment cost$165

So, that’s a one-time cost of $165 versus paying someone between $110 and $440 every year or two to trim your bushes for you. The cost savings could be huge if you learn to do this task yourself.

However, the skills and experience of lawn care pros can ensure a safer trimming job and a better outcome. Plus, you’ll have more time on your hands if you let the pros handle your trimming needs. And that’s priceless.

Cost of bush trimming by location

The cost of bush trimming can vary depending on your location. In general, you can expect to pay more in urban areas than in rural areas. The cost of labor is usually higher the closer you get to a large city. However, competition between many landscaping companies can sometimes drive down costs in urban areas.

FAQ

What is the best time of year to trim bushes?

The best time of year to trim bushes is in the late fall or early winter. This is because the plants are dormant and won’t be harmed by the trimming. In addition, landscaping companies are typically less busy at this time of year, which means you may get a discount on their services.

How often should I trim my bushes?

How often you trim your bushes depends on the type of bush and the desired look. Some bushes must be trimmed yearly, while others only require trimming every few years. For example, you should trim boxwood bushes yearly, while yews can be trimmed once every three to four years and still thrive.

What are the benefits of shrub trimming?

Apart from boosting curb appeal, shrub trimming has several other benefits. Trimming your shrubs regularly can help keep them healthy, promote new growth, and prevent diseases.

Additionally, neglected and overgrown bushes can obstruct driveways, windows, and entrances, creating potential hiding spots for intruders and serving as breeding ground for pests and diseases. With routine shrub trimming, you can reduce these risks while increasing your property’s value.

Let a pro trim your bushes

Trimming your bushes is crucial if you want to maintain a healthy and attractive yard. On average, bush trimming costs an hourly rate of $48 to $75 per hour or $6 to $16 per bush. Find a landscaping pro near you today, so you can start enhancing your curb appeal without much effort on your part.

Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

Main Photo by: Joegoauk Goa / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

Melanie Joseph

After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a writer, and never once looked back. When she isn't writing, she loves dipping in the pool, tending to the garden, or doing simple home improvement projects.