Planting a tree is a great way to improve the look of your yard. The average cost to have a semi-mature tree professionally planted ranges from $540 to $645, but costs may vary depending on a few factors.
Typically, the smaller the tree, the less it will cost to plant. You might pay as little as $50 for a pro to plant a sapling or close to $5,000 to plant a 20-foot-tall tree.
We gathered data from large and small cities around the U.S. so you can get a more accurate estimate of your tree project’s costs.
Cost by location
The cost of planting a tree can vary depending on where you live. 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.
The table below shows a snapshot of the costs to plant a tree across the U.S.:
| City | Average Cost Per Tree (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Boston, MA | $654 – $787 |
| Portland, ME | $535 – $643 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Orlando, FL | $482 – $580 |
| Atlanta, GA | $487 – $586 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Detroit, MI | $549 – $660 |
| Madison, WI | $559 – $672 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Missoula, MT | $497 – $597 |
| Boise, ID | $525 – $632 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $535 – $643 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $511 – $614 |
| Las Vegas, NV | $582 – $701 |
Cost 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 20 feet or more will cost $2,000 to plant, minimum. 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.
The following table breaks down the average cost to plant a tree by size:
| Tree size | Cost range to plant |
| Small (1-6 feet) | $50 – $300 |
| Medium (up to 10 feet) | $200 – $700 |
| Large (up to 20 feet) | $400 – $2,400 |
| Extra large (over 20 feet) | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Cost by type of tree
Some trees are more expensive than others because they require more care. Depending on what you’re looking for in a tree, the price tag may range from $17 to over $700 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.
| Type of tree | Cost per tree (labor not included) |
| Fruit | $17 – $225 |
| Evergreen | $20 – $350 |
| Ornamental | $25 – $275 |
| Shade | $35 – $700 |
Fruit trees: Everyone loves fresh fruit, and there’s nothing like picking your own right from the tree in your backyard. However, some fruit trees are more expensive to purchase than others. Moreover, 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: Evergreens are a great way to add privacy, shade and year-round color to your landscape. They 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.
Ornamental trees: Ornamental trees come in all shapes and sizes, with some varieties reaching over 40 feet tall. 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: Most shade trees grow very large, providing relief from the hot summer sun and keeping your home cooler to reduce your energy costs. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll need to choose one that fits the size of your yard.
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 $50 and $150 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.
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.
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.
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.
You need to purchase the tools, which include things like a shovel, wheelbarrow, and pruning shears. You’ll spend around $115 if you don’t have some of these at home.
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.
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.
Ready, Set, Grow
Planting a tree is a great way to improve your landscape and help the environment. It’s important to remember that they 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.
If you’ve planted a tree and you’re having trouble keeping your yard leaf-free, consider hiring a Lawn Love pro. They can quickly remove leaves before they attract any pests, with appropriate tools, saving you from straining your back. If the pests do appear, we also have pest control pros at the click of a button.
Maria Isabela Reis contributed to this article.
Read More:
- Lawn Seeding Cost Guide
- Lawn Mowing Cost Guide
- Aeration Cost Guide
- Dethatching Cost Guide
- Lawn Fertilization Cost Guide
- Leaf Removal Cost Guide
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image Credit: Unsplash
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