How Much Does Tree Trimming Cost in 2024?

Tree trimming services can cost between $255 and $655, with a national average cost of $420.

If you have trees on your property, you should budget for tree trimming services every few years. The cost of tree trimming varies depending on the company you use, the size of your trees, and how often you need the service. In general, tree trimming services can cost between $255 and $655, with a national average cost of $420.

If you’re planning to do your own trimming, be prepared for the work involved and the cost of equipment. This guide will go over the costs of both pro and DIY tree trimming. 

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Table of contents:

Average tree trimming costs in 2024

National Average Cost$420
Typical Price Range$255 – $655
Extreme Low End Cost$75
Extreme High End Cost$1,600

In the United States, tree trimming costs are typically based on the tree’s height, calculated in feet. The cost also depends on the type of tree, its condition, and its location. 

Having a small tree (20 feet tall or less) trimmed in an easily accessible location will cost closer to the low end of $75, while an extremely tall tree (60+ feet) might cost closer to the high end of $1,600 to trim. 

Trimming cost estimator by tree size

The average price of tree trimming varies depending on the size of the tree. Taller trees are more difficult and dangerous to trim, so you’ll typically pay more. 

Pros typically consider a tree “small” if it’s less than 30 feet tall and “tall” if it’s 60 feet tall or more. Anything in between could be considered “medium” or “average” in size.

Tree heightTypical cost for trimming
Under 30 feet$100 – $430
30 – 60 feet$160 – $760
Above 60 feet$430 – $1,870

In general, the larger the tree and the more work required, the higher the cost to trim it. To get a precise quote for your specific tree, consult with a local tree service company. 

Cost estimator by type of tree

Aside from size, the cost of tree trimming also depends on the type of tree. Some types of trees are taller, have thicker branches, or present other challenges that make them harder (and therefore more expensive) to trim. 

The following table provides an estimate of the cost to trim some of the most common types of trees in the US.

Type of tree Average cost to trim
Oak$350 – $1,385
Pine$175 – $1,765
Palm$185 – $1,215
Cypress$150 – $1,200
Crepe Myrtle$85 – $535

Oak

Generally, it costs between $350 and $1,385 to have an oak tree professionally trimmed. An oak tree needs trimming when its branches are too close to power lines or buildings. It’s important to trim an oak tree regularly to keep it healthy and prevent it from causing damage.

Pine

A pine tree can cost anywhere from $175 to $1,765 to trim. Pine trees typically require trimming every two to four years to keep them healthy and prevent them from growing too big.

Palm

A palm tree typically costs between $185 and $1,215 to trim. Palm trees grow pretty quickly in warm climates, so they need to be trimmed regularly to get rid of dead fronds and prevent overgrowth. However, avoid cutting all the fronds off your palm tree during trimming, as this could kill the tree.

Cypress

Trimming a cypress tree typically costs between $150 and $1,200. You’ll need to have cypress trees trimmed annually to maintain their neat and tidy conical shapes. 

Crepe myrtle

Crepe myrtle trees typically cost between $85 and $535 to trim. Crepe myrtles require trimming once a year to prevent them from becoming overgrown or diseased.

Other factors that affect cost

There are still more factors that can affect the cost of tree trimming for your property, such as:

Number of trees

The number of trees on your property that need to be trimmed will affect your overall cost. If there are a large number of trees, your tree service will need to allocate more time and resources to the project, which will result in a higher overall cost.

That said, you may be able to get a discount on trimming for additional trees since the tree service company is already onsite at your property. So, the second or third tree probably won’t cost as much to trim as the first. 

Accessibility

Think about the location of your tree. Will it be easy for the tree service company to reach its branches? If so, you can expect lower costs because the job will be quicker and less difficult than it would be for a tree in a tough spot. 

Trees are less accessible, and therefore more difficult and expensive to have trimmed, when they are:

  • Near power lines
  • Near your home or another building 
  • Near a body of water 
  • Very tall 

Tree health

If the tree is in good health, it will be easier to trim, and your service will cost less. However, if the tree’s health is poor–such as if it has many dead branches or is infested by pests–it will be more difficult to trim, and you’ll have to pay your tree care pro more to trim it. 

Time of year

For most trees, winter is the best time of year to trim because growth is dormant and the lack of leaves makes it easier to see and trim the branches. For this reason, tree care companies tend to be busier in winter, and they may raise their prices. 

While you might be able to save money by hiring a tree trimming service in the off-season, trimming at the wrong time of year could be bad for your trees. 

Tree care companies can provide other services in addition to trimming branches, and you may choose to bundle some of these services. Learn how much you should expect to spend for other common tree care services. 

Pruning

Pruning trees typically costs anywhere from $275 to $815. Pruning a tree isn’t the same as trimming it, although the services are similar. 

  • Trimming is cutting back branches when they become overgrown. 
  • Pruning is cutting off branches that are diseased, dead, or otherwise damaged in a way that could prevent the tree from growing correctly in the future. 

Diseased or damaged trees often require more specialist care, so you may have to hire an arborist, which is why pruning tends to cost a little more than trimming.

Topping

The average cost to have a tree topped is between $250 and $1,300. Tree topping is the process of removing the uppermost portion of a tree, including the leaves and branches. This is typically done to improve the tree’s appearance or manage its size. 

Tree topping is generally not recommended, as it can cause damage to the tree and can be dangerous. 

Tree removal

Tree removal cost varies depending on the size and location of the tree. The average cost to remove a tree is between $385 and $1,070. Generally, larger trees will be more expensive to remove, and smaller trees will be cheaper. Consult a local tree removal service for a specific quote.

Stump removal

The cost of stump removal is typically between $180 and $525, but the price depends on a number of factors, including the size of the stump and the method used to remove it. Methods include stump grinding, chemical decomposition, and manual removal.

Cost of DIY tree trimming

In general, you can expect to pay between about $140 and $1,100 for the tools you need to trim a tree. However, for your safety and the health of your trees, we recommend hiring a professional tree care service. 

DIY cost breakdown

Equipment/materialsAverage cost
Tree trimming saw$10 – $90
Ladder$50 – $400
Pruning shears$10 – $100
Chainsaw$60 – $450
Gloves $4 – $45
Safety glasses$7 – $30
Total DIY cost$141- $1,115

How to trim a tree in 6 steps

Once you have all the tools and equipment you need, here are the basic steps you’ll have to follow to trim a tree (safely).

Note: Always wear gloves and safety glasses when trimming trees.

Step 1: Assess the tree and its surroundings. Decide where you need to make cuts. Before trimming, take a close look at the tree’s location. Make sure there are no power lines or other structures nearby that could be damaged or pose a safety hazard.

Step 2: Set up your ladder. Position the ladder against the trunk of the tree and make sure it is stable before climbing to the appropriate height.

Step 3: Eliminate dead branches. Use a tree-trimming saw or chainsaw to cut away any dead or diseased branches first.

Step 4: Make other necessary cuts. Cut back any branches that are rubbing against each other or growing too close to power lines. Also, cut back any branches that are hanging over your house or blocking your view.

Step 5: Apply the finishing touch. Shape the tree by trimming evenly around the edges using pruning shears.

Step 6: Final clean-up.Clean up and dispose of the branches you cut and any other debris around the tree. Finally, step back and admire your handiwork!

DIY cost vs. professional cost

DIY cost$140 – $1,100 (one time)
Professional cost$255 – $655 (per service)

You might think you can save a lot of money by trimming your own trees, but that depends on what tools you already own. You’ll need a ladder, chainsaw, and tree trimming saw, among other things. Purchasing these items could cost more than you would pay a tree care pro for trimming. 

That being said, once you’ve bought the equipment, you own it for life. You pay once, and you can use those tools to trim your trees for years to come. If you hire a pro, you’ll have to pay every time. Still, tree trimming can be dangerous for you, and you could seriously damage your trees if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Cost of tree trimming by location

In some cases, the cost of trimming a tree can increase or decrease based on your geographical location. For example, in areas where tree services are in high demand, labor costs might be higher than the national averages presented in this guide. 

Location is especially relevant if you live in an area prone to severe weather events, such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Tree service companies are typically extra busy after a big storm, and they may jack up their prices for a while. 

FAQ

What are the benefits of tree trimming?

Tree trimming has many benefits, including:

  • Keeps trees from outgrowing their space
  • Improves trees’ appearance and shape
  • Allows more light and air to reach the center of the tree
  • Reduces the risk of branches falling and causing damage or injury
  • Removes dead or diseased branches, improving trees’ health
  • Prevents branches crossing or rubbing against each other

What is the best time to trim trees?

The best time to trim trees is in the late fall or early winter. This is when the tree’s leaves have dropped, and the branches are at their weakest.

How often should trees be trimmed?

Generally, trees should be trimmed every 3-5 years.

What are the dangers of tree trimming?

There are several dangers associated with tree trimming, including electrocution, falls, and injuries from flying debris. These are some of the many reasons it’s a good idea to hire a trained professional.

What are some common mistakes people make when trimming trees?

Some common tree trimming mistakes include:

  • Cutting too much off the tree at once
  • Not trimming the tree regularly
  • Not using the proper tools for the job
  • Not wearing hand gloves and protective glasses for the eyes
  • Not using a safety ladder

How can I find a good tree trimming service?

To find a good tree service in your area, ask friends and family for recommendations and read reviews online. Make sure the company you hire is licensed and insured. Get quotes from three to five companies before making your decision so you can be sure you’re getting the best price for your service.

Final thoughts

Tree trimming is an important part of maintaining the health of your trees, and it can also be a great way to improve the look of your property. The cost of tree trimming depends on many specific factors, including the size of the tree, the type of trimming required, and the location of the tree. In general, expect to pay between $255 and $655 for tree trimming services.

However, if you have a large tree or a complicated trimming job, you may end up paying more. Get quotes from multiple tree care companies in your area to find the best price without sacrificing quality work. 

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

Photo Credit: Leslie / Flickr / CC BY-NC 2.0

Jude Omoregie

Jude Omoregie is a content writer who lives in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. He loves creating engaging content for websites and blog posts. He has a passion for writing and a knack for finding the perfect words to capture the essence of the message. He is a lover of nature and its creator.