How Much Does Tree Removal Cost in Pennsylvania?

If you've gotten quotes for tree removal, you've probably noticed the prices vary wildly. One company quotes $400, another quotes $2,500 for what seems like the same tree. What's going on?

The truth is, tree removal pricing is legitimately complicated. Unlike a service with fixed costs, every tree removal job is different. Understanding what drives those differences helps you evaluate quotes and avoid both overpaying and suspiciously cheap bids that might signal corners being cut.

Typical Tree Removal Cost Ranges

In Pennsylvania, here's what you can generally expect to pay:

• Small trees (under 30 feet): $150 – $500
• Medium trees (30-60 feet): $400 – $1,200
• Large trees (60-80 feet): $900 – $2,000
• Very large trees (80+ feet): $1,500 – $4,000+

These ranges are broad because size is just one factor. A 50-foot tree in an open yard might cost $600, while a 50-foot tree tangled in power lines next to a house might cost $2,000 or more.

What Actually Affects the Price

Tree Size and Species

Larger trees take more time, more equipment, and more crew members. But species matters too. A 40-foot pine with a straight trunk and predictable wood is easier to take down than a 40-foot oak with heavy, spreading branches that need to be carefully lowered.

Hardwoods (oak, maple, walnut) are denser and heavier than softwoods (pine, spruce), which affects how they're cut and how much debris needs hauling.

Location and Access

This is often the biggest cost variable. A tree in the middle of a large yard with easy truck access is straightforward. A tree in a backyard with:

• No truck access (everything carried out by hand)
• Structures nearby (house, shed, fence)
• Power lines in the drop zone
• Other trees in the way
• Steep slopes or soft ground

...will cost significantly more because it requires more careful work, specialized techniques, and often more time.

Tree Condition

Healthy trees are actually easier to remove than dead or dying ones. Dead trees are unpredictable—branches can snap unexpectedly, trunks can be hollow or structurally compromised. This unpredictability requires more caution and often specialized rigging.

Storm-damaged trees with hanging branches ("widow makers") are particularly hazardous and time-consuming to address safely.

Equipment Needed

Basic tree removal requires chainsaws, ropes, and manual labor. More complex jobs might require:

• Bucket truck: Adds cost but speeds up work on tall trees with good access
• Crane: For very large trees or difficult locations, can add $500-$1,500+ to the job
• Specialized rigging: For trees near structures where every piece must be carefully lowered

What's Included (Or Not)

When comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing the same scope:

• Stump removal: Usually NOT included. Add $100-$400+ depending on size.
• Debris hauling: Most quotes include this, but verify.
• Wood disposal vs. leaving logs: Some homeowners want the wood for firewood. This might reduce your cost slightly.
• Permit fees: If required in your municipality, usually your responsibility.

Red Flags on Pricing

Other warning signs:

• Demanding full payment upfront: A deposit is reasonable; full payment before work starts is not.
• "Cash only" with a big discount: Often means they're avoiding taxes and possibly insurance.
• Door-to-door solicitation after storms: Storm chasers often overcharge, do poor work, and disappear.
• No written estimate: Everything should be documented.

How to Get Good Quotes

For the most accurate comparison:

1. Get at least three quotes from established local companies.
2. Have each company visit in person. Phone quotes for tree work are unreliable.
3. Ask what's included and get it in writing.
4. Verify insurance before anyone starts work.
5. Don't automatically take the lowest bid. Middle-of-the-range quotes from reputable companies are often the best value.

When to Consider Waiting

Unless a tree is an immediate hazard, you have some flexibility on timing:

• Winter: Often the cheapest time for tree removal. Crews are less busy, and frozen ground protects your lawn.
• After storm season: Prices and wait times spike after major storms. If it's not urgent, wait for things to calm down.
• Multiple trees: If you have several trees to remove, bundling them usually gets you a better per-tree rate.

The Bottom Line

Tree removal costs what it costs because it's genuinely skilled, dangerous work requiring expensive insurance, specialized equipment, and trained crews. The goal isn't to find the cheapest option—it's to find a fair price from a qualified company that will do the job safely and completely.

If a quote seems high, ask the company to walk you through what makes the job complex. A good company will explain their pricing. If a quote seems suspiciously low, ask about their insurance and check their reviews carefully before proceeding.