Tree removal cost in Houston, TX
For tree removal and trimming in Houston, describe damp ground and standing water and the work you want done. Border Quotes looks for an independent local provider.
Typical price ranges
HomeGuide puts the average tree removal at $400 to $1,200, with small trees from about $200 and very large or hazardous trees at $2,500 or more. Height, trunk diameter, access and nearby structures drive the price.
- Average removal: $400–$1,200
- Small tree, under 30 ft: $200–$500
- Medium tree, 30–60 ft: $500–$1,500
- Large tree, 60–80 ft: $850–$2,000
- Very large tree, over 80 ft: $1,200–$2,500+
- Palm tree: $200–$1,200
- Oak tree: $300–$2,500
- Pine tree: $250–$1,600
- Stump grinding: $100–$500+
- Tree trimming: $400–$900
- Emergency or storm removal: 2 to 3 times the normal rate
Source: HomeGuide, Tree Removal Cost, updated February 4, 2026, accessed October 29, 2026. National averages, not a quote; your price depends on your project. HomeGuide, Tree Removal Cost
Local labor costs in Houston
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2025 median wage of $19.07 an hour for tree trimmers and pruners in the Houston metro area, 22% below the national median of $24.50. Labor is a large part of these jobs, so local wages are one reason quotes here can differ from the national ranges.
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Houston metro area (SOC 37-3013)
Local rules and tips for Houston
Houston's hurricane season brings a spike in emergency removals, and HomeGuide notes emergency work can cost 2 to 3 times the normal rate. Getting dead or leaning trees assessed before storm season usually costs less than an emergency call after a storm.
Houston has a humid Gulf Coast climate and relatively flat terrain. Rain and damp ground are useful details to mention when describing an outdoor project. Tree work needs a view of the canopy, drop area and equipment route, beyond the street address.
Hiring in Texas: license and permit checks
Texas has no general state contractor license. Certain trades require state licenses: electrical, air conditioning and heating through TDLR, and plumbing through the state plumbing board; check the requirements for the work you need.
Ask the provider for the license or registration number if their trade requires one, and ask about insurance. Confirm city or county permits with the local building department and get a written scope of work.
What changes the price
- Height and trunk diameter.
- Access for a bucket truck or crane, and whether the tree must be taken down in pieces.
- Proximity to the house, fences, power lines or a pool.
- Condition: dead, leaning or storm-damaged trees take more care.
- Stump grinding, root removal and haul-away, which may be priced separately.
- Permits for protected trees in some cities.
How to choose a provider
- Get at least three written quotes that list the same scope, materials and cleanup.
- Check the license (where your state requires one) and ask for proof of liability insurance.
- Ask who pulls the permit and whether the permit fee is in the price.
- Agree on a payment schedule tied to finished work; avoid paying most of the price up front.
- Get the warranty for labor and materials in writing.
Red flags
- Cash-only deals or pressure to sign the same day.
- No written contract, no address and no proof of insurance.
- A price far below every other quote with a vague scope.
- Door-to-door offers right after a storm from crews you cannot verify.
Services in Houston
Other areas
Tree removal cost guides
What tree removal usually costs, with sourced price ranges and local rules.
Get a local quote
Border Quotes is a referral service, not a contractor. Send your project and ZIP code; we look for an independent local provider who can quote it. This service is new, so we cannot promise availability, and we tell you if we cannot find one.
FAQ
How much does tree removal cost in Houston?
HomeGuide puts the average tree removal at $400 to $1,200, with small trees from about $200 and very large or hazardous trees at $2,500 or more. Height, trunk diameter, access and nearby structures drive the price. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2025 median wage of $19.07 an hour for tree trimmers and pruners in the Houston metro area, 22% below the national median of $24.50. Labor is a large part of these jobs, so local wages are one reason quotes here can differ from the national ranges.
Are there local rules for tree removal in Houston?
Houston's hurricane season brings a spike in emergency removals, and HomeGuide notes emergency work can cost 2 to 3 times the normal rate. Getting dead or leaning trees assessed before storm season usually costs less than an emergency call after a storm.
Which license and permit checks apply in Texas?
Texas has no general state contractor license. Certain trades require state licenses: electrical, air conditioning and heating through TDLR, and plumbing through the state plumbing board; check the requirements for the work you need. Ask the provider for the license or registration number if their trade requires one, and ask about insurance. Confirm city or county permits with the local building department and get a written scope of work.
How much does it cost to remove a tree?
HomeGuide reports $400 to $1,200 on average. Small trees can cost around $200 to $500 and trees over 80 feet $1,200 to $2,500 or more.
Is stump grinding included?
Often not. HomeGuide lists stump grinding at about $100 to $500 or more, so ask whether the quote includes the stump, roots and haul-away.
What credentials should a tree service have?
Ask for proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. ISA Certified Arborist credentials and TCIA accreditation are useful signs of training.