How Much Does an Arborist Cost in 2024?

On average, an arborist charges between $300 and $1,800 per project.

The national average cost for an arborist is $800 per project, with most homeowners spending between $300 and $1,800, depending on the type of service required, along with the size and condition of their trees.

Certified arborists can provide comprehensive tree services, including pruning, removal, stump grinding, and deep root injection. For a consultation and estimate, arborists typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $75 to $250 per hour. A full report or site analysis may cost $250 to $400 for a single tree.

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An arborist is a trained tree specialist who can provide expert advice on the health and care of trees. If you have concerns about the condition of a tree on your property or are considering tree removal, it’s a good idea to consult with an arborist. 

In this article:

Average Costs to Hire an Arborist in 2024

An arborist’s cost will vary depending on the size and age of the tree, as well as how difficult it is to access. Some arborists may charge a flat rate, while others will charge by the hour.

National Average Cost$800
Typical Price Range$300 – $1,800
Extreme low-end cost$75
Extreme high-end cost$6,500

The average cost to hire an arborist is $800 per job. However, prices can vary widely for each job. For example, trimming a few small branches on a single tree may only cost $75, while removing multiple large trees could cost up to $6,500, including all disposal fees.

If you have several trees that need to be trimmed or removed, you may be able to get a discount. Many arborists will offer a package deal if you have multiple trees that need to be serviced. Keep in mind that some arborists may charge an additional fee for travel if your property is located outside of their service area. Be sure to ask about this before hiring an arborist.

Arborist Cost Estimator by Tree Size

Trees come in all shapes and sizes, which can make it difficult to estimate the cost of tree services. Plus, there are a number of factors that can affect the price, such as the type of tree, its age and condition, and how difficult it is to access.

The table below provides a general guide for tree removal costs based on tree size. These prices are for residential properties and do not include commercial properties or stump removal.

Tree HeightRemoval Cost
Up to 30 feet$285 – $435
30 – 60 feet$435 – $870
60 – 80 feet$870 – $1,160
Over 80 feet$1,160 – $2,000

Arborist Services

There are many reasons to consult an arborist, but the most common is to request tree removal or tree trimming services. Other popular reasons include seeking advice on how to care for trees, diagnosing tree problems, or requesting tree planting services.

Here are some general price ranges for popular arborist services:

Tree Trimming

Tree trimming is the process of removing dead or overgrown branches from a tree. This is typically done to improve the tree’s appearance or to prevent damage to property or people.

Tree trimming cost can be between $75 and $1,500, depending on the size and condition of the tree.

Tree Removal

When you have a tree that is no longer living, it can pose a serious threat to your property and the safety of those around it. Tree removal is a complicated and dangerous process that should only be attempted by experienced professionals.

Typically, tree removal costs between $385 and $1,070, depending on the size and condition of the tree.

Stump Removal

After a tree has been cut down, the stump will need to be removed. This can be done with a stump grinder or by manually removing the roots. Tree stump removal costs between $180 and $525, depending on the size of the stump and the method used to remove it.

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Stump Grinding

Stump grinding is the process of using a special machine to grind the tree stump into small pieces. This is typically done to prepare the area for new construction or to make it easier to mow the lawn. Stump grinding usually costs between $140 and $450, depending on the size of the stump.

Wood Chipping

Wood chipping is the process of reducing a tree or branch into chips. This is typically done after the tree has been trimmed or removed. Many arborists will include wood-chipping services in their tree removal quotes. However, if you need to have the tree chipped separately, it will usually cost $100 to $500 per tree, depending on the size of the tree and how much wood needs to be chipped.

Deep Root Aeration

Hiring an arborist to aerate your lawn is the best way to ensure deep, effective aeration. For a standard-size lawn, expect to pay between $85 and $220 for aeration services. Arborists typically use a machine called an aerator to remove small cores of soil from the ground. This process loosens up compacted soil and allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the root zone.

Deep Root Fertilization

Deep root fertilization is the process of applying fertilizer to the roots of your trees and shrubs. This helps promote new growth, deepen the root system, and improve the overall health of your plants. Deep root fertilization typically costs between $100 and $300 per tree or shrub.

Monthly Pest Control

If you live in an area that is susceptible to pests, you may want to consider hiring an arborist to provide monthly pest control services. This typically costs between $35 and $55 per month, depending on the size of your property and the number of trees and shrubs that need treatment. 

Cabling a Tree

Cabling a tree is the process of installing support cables to help prevent branches from breaking. This is typically done on trees that are at risk of breaking from high winds or heavy snow. On average, an arborist will charge $150 to $450 to cable a tree. The cost will depend on the size of the tree and how many support cables are needed.

Planting a Tree

If you’re looking to add some trees to your property, expect to pay between $150 and $1,850 per tree for professional planting. The cost will depend on the size and type of tree you want to plant. Smaller trees, like saplings, typically cost less than larger trees. 

You can also plant a tree yourself, which will only cost you the price of the tree. However, it’s important to note that planting a tree is a lot of work. If you’re not prepared to do the work, it’s best to hire an arborist. 

Tree Inspection

A tree inspection can help you identify potential problems with your tree before they become serious. An arborist will look for signs of disease, pests, or other problems that could threaten the health of your tree.

Regular tree inspections can help you extend the life of your trees and avoid costly treatments. If you have a tree that is important to you, it’s worth the investment to have it inspected regularly. Arborists’ rates for this service can range from free to $250.

Tree Injections

Tree injections are a type of preventative treatment that helps protect your trees from disease. This is typically done by injecting a fungicide or insecticide into the trunk of the tree. Tree injections typically cost between $60 and $250 per tree, depending on the type of treatment, the size of the tree, and the number of injections.

Arborist Report

If you’re thinking about hiring an arborist, you may want to ask for an arborist report. This is a document that outlines the arborist’s findings and recommendations. The tree report should include an assessment of the tree’s health, a recommendation for treatment, and an estimate of the cost of services.

An arborist report typically costs between $250 and $400. However, the cost will vary depending on the size and complexity of the report.

Bush Trimming

Trimming bushes is a necessary part of keeping them healthy and looking their best. An arborist can trim your bushes for you, which will typically cost between $50 and $75 per hour. The bush trimming cost will depend on the size of your bushes and how often they need to be trimmed.

Hedge Trimming

Hedge trimming is similar to bush trimming, but it can be a little trickier. An arborist can trim your hedges for you, which will typically cost between $65 and $90 per hour. The hedge trimming cost will depend on the size of your hedges, the type of plant, and how often they need to be trimmed.

Cost by Location

The cost of arborist services can vary depending on your location. In general, arborists in urban areas charge more than those in rural areas. This is because the cost of living is higher in urban areas, and arborists have to charge more to cover their overhead costs.

FAQ

Why are arborists’ rates so high?

The cost of arborist services can seem high, but it’s important to remember that these are skilled professionals who have years of training and experience. They also have to cover the cost of their equipment, liability insurance, and other overhead costs. When you hire an arborist, you’re paying for their expertise and their time.

Is an arborist the same as a tree surgeon?

An arborist is a type of tree surgeon. There is a small difference between the two terms. Tree surgeons are typically more focused on the practical aspects of tree care, such as pruning and removal. Arborists are more focused on the science of tree care, such as planting and soil management.

How often should I have my trees inspected?

How often you have your trees inspected will depend on the type of trees you have and their location. If you have trees that are at risk of high winds or heavy snow, you should have them inspected more frequently.

How do I find an arborist in my area?

The best way to find an arborist in your area is to search online or ask for recommendations from friends or family. Once you’ve found a few arborists, you can compare their rates and reviews to find the best one for your needs.

Can an arborist tell if a tree is dying?

Yes, an arborist can usually tell if a tree is dying. Signs of a dying tree include yellowing leaves, bare branches, and a lack of new growth. If you think your tree might be dying, it’s important to have it inspected by an arborist as soon as possible. .

Is DIY tree care a good idea?

No, DIY tree care is not a good idea. Arborists are trained to identify potential problems with trees and provide solutions. If you try to care for your trees yourself, you could end up doing more harm than good.

What if I can’t afford an arborist?

If you can’t afford an arborist, you can try to find a tree care service that offers payment plans or discounts. You can also search online for scholarships or grants that can help you cover the cost of arborist services.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to trees, you don’t have to go it alone. There are a number of professional arborist services that can help you with everything from planting to pest control. These services can be found in most cities and towns, and they’re typically offered by tree care companies or landscaping businesses.

The cost of arborist services will vary depending on the type of service you need and the company you hire. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,800 for most services. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a few different companies in your area and ask for quotes.

When it comes to choosing an arborist, it’s important to hire someone who is experienced and reputable. Ask for recommendations from friends or family or look for reviews online. Once you’ve found a few companies you’re interested in, be sure to ask about their qualifications and experience.

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Main Photo by: TreeMinion15 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Adrian Nita

Adrian Nita

Adrian is a former marine navigation officer turned writer with more than 3 years of experience in the field. He loves writing about anything and everything but specializes in covering smart technology and gardening. When he's not writing, Adrian enjoys spending time with his family and friends or hiking in the great outdoors.