What Is the Cheapest Time of Year for Tree Removal?

Ever heard people asking what is the cheapest time of year for tree removal?

If you’ve been pondering how to have a tree removed from your property, but you’re concerned about the expense it could be possible to save several hundred dollars. The time of year of tree service, the local weather conditions, as well as the type of tree that you’re planning to remove have a major impact on the amount you pay. When they know the time of year when prices are lowest, homeowners will reduce their expenses, but make sure the job is completed safely and efficiently.

This article will walk you through the most cost-effective time of the year to have tree trimming, as well as the ideal times and seasons to schedule your tree removal service, as well as practical tips to keep your costs to a minimum.

Table of Contents

What Time of Year Is the Cheapest for Tree Removal?

If affordability is your main concern, winter is often the cheapest time of year for tree removal. During this season, demand for tree services is significantly lower. Homeowners typically put off this kind of work due to the cooler weather and the assumption that spring or fall is better for yard maintenance. Contractors, as a result, are more likely to offer discounts or flexible pricing to keep their schedules full.

A study by HomeAdvisor found that tree removal services decrease by approximately 10–15% in price during the off-season (winter). This is because tree service providers are looking to maintain steady cash flow during a slower operational period.

Why Are Tree Removal Costs Lower in Winter?

Less demand: Most homeowners focus on tree work in spring when landscaping projects ramp up.

Better visibility: Deciduous trees lose their leaves in winter, making it easier for arborists to assess and remove trees without extra cleanup.

Availability of equipment and crews: Tree service companies often have more open schedules in winter, leading to quicker bookings and negotiable rates.

If you’re not in a rush, making a call to tree service companies early in their off-season (typically between late November and February) can help you save an enormous amount. Actually, research obtained from the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) shows that more than 30% of clients who book during winter are savings of between $100 to $300.

What Season Is Best for Tree Removal?

The “best” season for tree removal depends on your objective. If cost savings are your priority, winter remains ideal. However, if you’re looking for optimal tree health management or easier ground conditions, late autumn into early winter and early spring are excellent times to act. Here’s why:

Winter (Cheapest Option)
Best for cost savings.
Minimal disruption to surrounding landscape since most foliage has already fallen.
Frozen ground conditions minimize soil damage from heavy equipment.
According to Angi.com, winter removals can be up to 20% cheaper than peak-season projects.

Spring
Perfect if you’re preparing for new planting or landscaping.
Allows tree removal professionals to assess tree health before growth begins.
Can be slightly more expensive as demand starts to pick up.

Fall
Great for removing dead or dying trees ahead of winter storms.
Reasonable pricing as it’s just before peak landscaping demand in spring.

Note that summer tends to be the least ideal from both a cost and efficiency perspective. High demand for landscaping services and hot weather conditions often drive prices up. A 2023 LawnStarter report found that summer rates can be up to 25% higher compared to winter.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Remove a Tree?

While hiring professionals is always recommended for safety reasons, there are ways to make the process more budget-friendly:

Get Multiple Quotes
Reach out to at least three tree service providers in your area and request detailed quotes. Comparing prices can quickly highlight affordable options, and some companies may offer price-matching if you mention a competitor. Studies show that getting multiple quotes can save homeowners an average of $150.

Consider Off-Peak Seasons
Schedule your tree removal during late fall or winter when services are less in demand. Many companies offer offseason discounts, saving you anywhere from 10 to 20% off peak prices, as reported by Thumbtack.

DIY Small Tree Removal
When the trees are not more than 15 feet high and does not pose a safety danger, you might be able to take it down by yourself with a few tools, such as chainsaws or pruning shears and a ladder. Make sure you prioritize safety by using the right equipment and adhering to local laws. Based on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 30,000 chainsaw-related injuries occur each year and you should only try this only if you’re comfortable and ready.

Bundle Services
If you need additional work (like stump grinding, pruning, or yard cleanup), bundling tasks with a single service provider can often result in package discounts. Some companies offer bundle savings of 10–15%, depending on the scope of work.

Consult Your Local Municipality
Certain towns or cities may provide free tree removal services for dangerous, dead, or ill-healthed trees, in particular in cases where they pose a danger to infrastructure or power lines. Consult your local utility provider and city council to find out what grants or other subsidies are available. For example, New york city’s Department of Parks & Recreation is able to remove trees for free in public safety situations.

Make Use of the Firewood
Instead of paying for tree hauling services, request the tree be cut into logs. You can use or sell the wood, offsetting part of the removal expense. On average, a cord of firewood sells for $200–$300, depending on your region.

What Is the Best Month to Cut Down a Tree?

The best month for tree removal depends on your reason for removing the tree and the local weather conditions. Generally, December through February are cost-effective months due to lower demand. However, early spring (March or April) may also work well if you’re focused on landscaping and planting preparation.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

December–February: Lowest prices, less demand, and minimal impact on surrounding plants. The National Arborist Association notes that winter removal also reduces the risk of spreading certain tree diseases.

March–April: Good compromise for those looking to pair tree removal with spring landscaping.

October–November: Ideal for preparing your yard for winter while taking out dead or dangerous trees.

If storms or severe damage have made a tree hazardous, don’t wait for a particular month. Safety should always take precedence over timing. According to FEMA, falling trees cause over $1 billion in property damage annually—early action can prevent costly emergencies.

Factors That Can Influence Tree Removal Costs

Understanding what influences tree removal pricing can give you an edge in negotiating for the best deal. Key factors include:

Size of the Tree: Larger trees are generally more expensive to remove due to the labor and equipment required. For instance, trees over 80 feet tall can cost $1,500 or more, while small trees under 30 feet may only cost around $300–$500. Use tree removal cost calculator to estimate pricing in detail.

Location: Trees close to buildings, power lines, or other infrastructure may incur additional charges. Expect to pay 20–50% more in complex removal cases.

Tree Type: Hardwood trees like oak are heavier and denser, requiring more effort to remove than lighter species like pine.

Condition: Dead, dying, or decayed trees can sometimes cost more because of increased safety risks for arborists. A diseased tree removal can be 15–30% more expensive, depending on how unstable it is.

Communicating these details to your service provider during the quote request stage can provide the most accurate pricing.

Final Thoughts on Timing Your Tree Removal

Choosing the right time of year for tree removal can significantly reduce your expenses while ensuring the process is handled safely and efficiently. For the cheapest rates, schedule your tree removal during the winter months, ideally from December to February, when demand is lowest. If timing allows, always obtain multiple quotes and explore seasonal discounts for the best deal.

By being strategic, you can save money without compromising the quality of service. For more tree care tips and resources, check out our other blog posts or reach out to a professional arborist in your area. Don’t delay! Every season has opportunities to make yard maintenance work for your wallet.

You may like to read:

How to Hire a Tree Removal Company in 2025: Tips and Factors

How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Tree in 2025

Are Skinny Pine Trees Good to Plant in Temecula?

Are Palm Trees Native to Arizona?