Planting a tree is a great way to improve the look of your yard and add value to your home. The national average cost of planting a tree ranges from $150 to $1,850, including the tree itself and the labor to plant it.
However, the final cost will depend on the type of tree you want to plant, its size, and the condition of your property. Typically, the smaller the tree, the less it will cost to plant. For example, a sapling that’s 2 or 3 feet tall may cost as little as $100, while a larger tree about 20 feet tall may cost $3,335 or more.
Table of contents:
- Average costs
- Cost estimator by size
- Cost by type of tree
- Other factors that affect cost
- Related services
- Pro cost vs. DIY cost
- Cost by location
- FAQ
Average costs to plant a tree in 2024
| National average cost | $300 |
| Typical price range | $150 – $1,850 |
| Extreme low end cost | $100 |
| Extreme high end cost | $3,335 |
The price you’ll pay to plant a tree changes depending on its size and species, as well as where you want to plant it. The average cost of tree planting is $300, with most homeowners spending between $150 and $1,850 to purchase a tree and have a landscaper or arborist plant it.
If you’re looking for a tree that will provide immediate privacy, shade, and beauty to your home, you’ll want to choose one that is mature and already well-developed. You will likely pay up to $3,335 for a tree of this size, with labor costs included. Trees planted in the front yard may be subject to city ordinances, which could increase the price.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to wait a few years for your tree to grow, you can save money by planting a sapling. Saplings are small trees that are typically less than 2 years old. They are much cheaper than mature trees, with an up-front cost of around $100, on average, including professional planting.
Planting cost estimator by tree size
The size of the tree you want to plant will affect the cost of materials and labor. Larger tree plantings will require more equipment and man-hours, which will raise the overall price.
For example, a tree of 10 feet or more will cost an average of $2,100 to plant. This size class will require a backhoe or other large equipment to dig the hole, which will increase labor costs. Remember that the root system of a large tree will also be much larger, so you’ll need to factor in the cost of amending the soil to accommodate the roots.
A medium-sized tree measuring 5 to 10 feet, on the other hand, will only set you back an average of $255 in total. With a smaller size, you can generally get away with hand-digging the hole, resulting in a lower labor rate.
The following table breaks down the average cost to plant a tree by size:
| Tree size | Average cost to plant |
| Small (1 – 4 Feet) | $95 |
| Medium (5 – 9 Feet) | $255 |
| Large (10 – 19 Feet) | $2,115 |
| Extra Large (20 – 30 Feet) | $3,500 |
Cost by type of tree
Some trees are more expensive than others because they require more care. For example, evergreens cost more to plant than deciduous trees because they need to be watered more often. Depending on what you’re looking for in a tree, the price tag may range from $100 to over $3,500 in total.
There are many types of trees to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. Below, find typical prices for some of the most popular trees planted in landscapes.
Fruit trees
| Fruit trees (1 – 5 gallon container) | Average cost without labor |
| Avocado | $75 |
| Apple | $55 |
| Cherry | $80 |
| Fig | $55 |
| Grapefruit | $65 |
| Lemon | $45 |
| Lime | $45 |
| Olive | $60 |
| Orange | $85 |
| Peach | $65 |
| Pear | $60 |
| Pecan | $90 |
| Plum | $65 |
Everyone loves fresh fruit, and there’s nothing like picking your own right from the tree in your backyard. Fruit trees typically cost around $165 to plant when you add the cost of hiring an arborist. However, some fruit trees are more expensive to purchase than others (see the table above).
Keep in mind that every fruit tree has different requirements for sunlight, water, and soil. Do your research before planting to ensure the tree you choose will thrive in your yard.
Evergreen trees
| Evergreen trees (1 – 5 gallon container) | Average cost without labor |
| Arborvitae | $110 |
| Cedar | $115 |
| Cryptomeria | $100 |
| Cypress | $90 |
| Holly | $65 |
| Juniper | $85 |
| Palm | $105 |
| Pine | $65 |
| Spruce | $85 |
| Thuja | $95 |
| Yew | $75 |
Evergreen trees are a great way to add privacy, shade and year-round color to your landscape. On average, they cost $100 without hiring an arborist to plant them.
Evergreen trees are classified as either broadleaf or needle-leaf. Broadleaf evergreens have wide, flat leaves that stay green all year long. Needle-leaf evergreens, on the other hand, have long, thin needles that stay green throughout the year.
Keep in mind: Evergreen trees can be difficult to grow because they need a lot of water, and they don’t tolerate drought.
Ornamental trees
| Ornamental trees (1 – 5 gallon container) | Average cost without labor |
| Cherry blossom | $100 |
| Crabapple | $110 |
| Crape Myrtle | $65 |
| Dogwood | $90 |
| Fringe | $115 |
| Magnolia | $70 |
| Redbud | $130 |
| Serviceberry | $125 |
Ornamental trees come in all shapes and sizes, with some varieties reaching over 40 feet tall. Crape myrtle trees can be purchased for as little as $60, whereas a serviceberry or redbud could set you back over $125, not including the cost to hire an arborist.
Ornamental trees are usually smaller than other types of trees and don’t provide as much shade. They’re often planted for their flowers, leaves, or overall aesthetic.
Shade trees
| Shade trees (1 – 5 gallon container) | Average cost without labor |
| Birch | $95 |
| Gingko | $115 |
| Japanese maple | $160 |
| Maple | $105 |
| Oak | $130 |
| Poplar | $85 |
| Sycamore | $115 |
| Weeping Willow | $105 |
Most shade trees grow very large, providing relief from the hot summer sun and keeping your home cooler to reduce your energy costs. On average, they cost $115 (without hiring an arborist).
Shade trees come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll need to choose one that fits the size of your yard. You’ll also want to make sure the tree is disease-resistant and can withstand any harsh weather conditions that are common where you live.
Other factors that affect cost
Though it may seem simple and affordable, planting a tree involves costs that most people don’t consider. From the age of the tree to the cost of labor, many factors contribute to the final price tag.
Tree maturity
Maturity is another factor that will affect the overall cost of planting a tree. A young tree, for example, is going to be less expensive than an older one because it will be smaller and have less extensive roots.
Generally speaking, a young tree costs $150 to $765 to plant, depending on the type. Mature trees tend to be the most expensive, costing anywhere from $1,350 to $2,870 to plant, including the cost of labor. Mature trees are so expensive because of the work and equipment that goes into transporting and planting them.
Labor cost for planting a tree
The company you choose and the tree species will both affect labor costs. In general, expect to pay between $55 and $145 per hour for labor. Typically, it takes one to two hours to plant a sapling.
A larger or harder-to-plant tree will cost more in labor because of increased work hours and the need for specialized equipment. In the end, the total cost of labor to plant a tree usually falls between $80 and $2,500.
| Size of tree | Average cost of labor alone |
| Small tree (up to a 5-gallon container) | $85 |
| Medium tree (15-gallon container) | $270 |
| Large tree (1-cubic-yard container) | $2,470 |
Number of trees
The number of trees you’re looking to plant will also affect the total cost. If you’re planting multiple trees, expect to pay less per tree. Think of it like buying in bulk.
If you’re planting 10 trees, you can expect to pay between $45 and $95 per tree.
Transport fees
Unless you have a truck large enough to haul your tree from the nursery to your home, you’ll have to pay for it to be delivered. The further the tree has to travel and the harder it is to transport, the more it will cost. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $175 for transportation.
In some cases, you may need to hire other professionals in addition to a basic landscaper to help with the tree-planting process. This is especially true if you’re planting a large tree or one that’s difficult to put in the ground.
You may also need to take steps to prepare the site for planting. Here’s how much you can expect these additional services and pros to cost you.
Arborist
You may need to hire an arborist, which is a trained tree specialist, to help with everything from choosing the right tree for your landscape to properly planting it. An arborist typically charges between $75 and $200 per hour.
Weed removal
If the area where you want to plant your tree is overrun with weeds, you’ll have to remove them before planting. You can pull weeds yourself, of course, but it can be hard and tedious work. Hiring a landscaper to remove weeds for you costs between $65 and $170.
Tree removal
If you have an old tree that needs to be removed before you can plant a new one, you’re going to need to hire a tree removal company. On average, tree removal costs between $240 and $1,750.
The specific tree removal cost will depend on the size and type of tree, as well as its location. If the tree is close to power lines or a structure, it’s going to be more expensive to remove.
Stump removal
Tree removal doesn’t always include removing the stump, so you may need to hire another company to remove the stump of the old tree to clear space for the new one. The cost of stump removal typically falls between $140 and $450.
Tree transplant
Tree movers specialize in, you guessed it, moving trees! If you have a tree that you want to transplant to another location on your property, expect to pay between $90 and $300 for tree-moving services.
The cost of this service will depend on the size and type of tree, as well as how far it needs to be moved.
Fallen tree removal
Tree companies that remove live trees and stumps can usually remove fallen trees and haul them away from your property, as well. The average cost to remove a fallen tree is $90 to $300.
Tree trimming
Once your tree is planted and established, you’ll need to have it trimmed once every few years to keep it from becoming overgrown and weak. Tree trimming typically costs between $255 and $655, depending on the size, type, and location of the tree.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
If you choose to plant a tree yourself, you can save a ton on labor costs. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could easily damage the tree and turn the whole project into a bust.
Unless you want to plant a sapling that’s no taller than you are, we recommend hiring a professional. Not only will they have the necessary experience and equipment, but they’ll also be able to ensure that your tree is planted correctly.
The cost to have an arborist or tree service plant a tree is between $150 and $1,850, depending on the type of tree. You could buy a small to medium tree on its own, depending on the species, for $95 to $255, and plant it yourself. You’ll also need to purchase the tools listed below, if you don’t already own them.
| Equipment | Average cost |
| Shovel | $30 |
| Tape measure | $10 |
| Wheelbarrow | $50 |
| Pruning shears | $15 |
| Garden gloves | $10 |
| Total equipment cost | $115 |
For small to medium trees, you could save over $1,000 in labor costs by planting them yourself.
For larger, mature trees with developed root systems, we definitely recommend hiring a professional. You don’t want to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a large tree only to have it die within a year because you planted it incorrectly.
Cost by location
The cost of planting a tree can vary depending on your location. For instance, if you live in an urban area, the labor and transportation fees associated with planting a tree will be higher than if you lived in a rural area. Installation will also be more difficult if you have a small yard.
In addition, purchasing a species of tree that doesn’t grow naturally in your area will cost extra because it will have to be transported from far away. We recommend choosing native trees for your landscape, both for the savings on transportation costs and the general benefits of native plants.
FAQ
You may need a permit to plant a tree, depending on your location and the type of tree you want to plant. To find out if you need a permit, we recommend contacting your local city hall or planning department. You can also ask an arborist or tree care pro in your area.
A 5-gallon tree is about 2 to 5 feet tall. It is a very young tree that is still growing.
The best time to plant a tree is in fall or spring, when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold, and there is typically more rainfall.
Yes, you should always test the soil before planting any type of tree. This will help you determine the best type of tree to plant and the best location for planting.
You should water your newly planted tree once a week. Be sure to check the soil first to make sure it dries out between waterings. Overwatering your new tree can be just as bad as underwatering.
Yes, planting a tree is definitely worth it. Not only will you add curb appeal to your home, but you’ll also do your part to help the environment. Trees help improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide habitat for wildlife. They can also increase the resale value of your home.
Yes, planting a tree can add property value to your home. In fact, it is estimated that a mature tree can increase the value of your home by 3 to 15 percent.
There are a few things you can add around your newly planted tree to help it grow:
• Mulch: Adding a layer of mulch around your tree will help retain moisture in the soil and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.
• Fertilizer: Fertilizing your tree with the right nutrients, based on the results of your soil test, will help it grow and produce more fruit.
Final thoughts
Planting a tree is a great way to improve your landscape and help the environment. The cost of planting a tree varies depending on the size of the tree, the provider you hire, and your location. On average, the cost to plant a tree professionally is between $150 and $1,850, including labor and materials.
It’s important to remember that trees are a long-term investment. They can last for decades, even centuries, with proper care. So, while the initial cost might be high, you and your family will reap the benefits for years to come.
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Main Photo by Vitor Monthay – Unsplash
