Tree service pricing depends on tree size and species, site accessibility, and the scope of work involved. The most accurate way to know what your project will cost is a site evaluation — but here is a realistic picture of what to expect in the Central Ohio market.
How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
Tree removal is typically the biggest single tree service expense. In Columbus and the surrounding suburbs, most residential tree removals fall between $400 and $2,500, with the wide range driven almost entirely by tree size, trunk diameter, height, and how close the tree is to structures, utilities, or fencing.
- Small trees (under 30 ft): $400–$700. Straightforward removal in open space.
- Medium trees (30–60 ft): $700–$1,400. Most common residential range in Columbus.
- Large trees (60–80 ft): $1,400–$2,000. Oaks, maples, and large ashes. Crane may be needed.
- Very large or complex removals: $2,000–$3,500+. Multi-stem trees, trees over structures, crane work required.
Stump grinding is typically an add-on at $100–$400 depending on stump diameter. If you are getting a removal done, adding stump grinding at the same visit is almost always the most cost-effective approach.
Learn About Tree Removal →
How Much Does Tree Trimming Cost?
Pruning and trimming costs range from $200 to $1,500 or more depending on tree size and what the tree actually needs. A routine maintenance prune on a mid-sized ornamental is a very different job than structural pruning on a mature 70-foot oak — both in time and in what it takes to do it right.
- Small ornamental trees: $150–$400
- Mid-sized shade trees: $400–$900
- Large mature trees: $900–$1,500+
We price pruning jobs after walking the tree with you. We do not give per-branch or per-hour estimates over the phone — site conditions and tree structure matter too much.
Learn About Tree Trimming →
How Much Does Stump Grinding Cost?
Standalone stump grinding typically runs $100 to $400 depending on stump diameter, how deep the grind needs to go, and whether the stump is accessible with equipment. Added to a same-day removal job, pricing is lower.
Learn About Stump Grinding →
How Much Does Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Cost?
EAB trunk injection treatment runs $150 to $400 per tree based on trunk diameter, with most residential ash trees falling in the $175–$300 range. This is the cost of emamectin benzoate injection, which provides two to three years of protection per treatment. Compare that to ash tree removal costs of $600–$2,000 or more, and treatment is often significantly more economical for trees that are still candidates — those with less than 50% canopy dieback.
Ohio ash trees are under active EAB pressure throughout Franklin, Delaware, Union, and Licking County. If you have ash trees and have not had them evaluated, the window for effective treatment narrows each year.
Learn About EAB Treatment →
How Much Does Tree Cabling Cost?
Tree cabling and bracing for co-dominant stems, weak branch unions, or split trunks typically runs $300 to $900 depending on the number of cables, tree height, and complexity of the installation. Cabling is always installed to ANSI A300 standards and requires a site evaluation to determine whether it is the right solution for a given tree.
Learn About Tree Cabling →
How Much Does Arborist Consulting Cost?
Consulting visits — including pre-purchase evaluations, construction protection assessments, risk assessments, and written TRAQ reports — are priced based on scope. Most single-tree or single-property consulting visits are in the $150–$350 range. Written reports suitable for real estate, HOA, or insurance purposes are available. Contact us for specifics based on your situation.
Learn About Arborist Consulting →
How Much Does Tree Planting Cost?
Planting pricing depends on species, tree caliper (trunk diameter at planting), and whether you add the five-year warranty and maintenance program. Container and balled-and-burlapped trees vary widely in cost. We provide project quotes after discussing species selection and site conditions with you.
Learn About Tree Planting →
What Drives the Cost of Tree Work?
Tree size is the single biggest pricing factor across almost every service. Accessibility is second — trees near structures, power lines, fencing, or in confined yards require more planning, more rigging, and more crew time. Tree condition also matters: a structurally sound tree is more predictable to work on than one with significant decay, included bark, or storm damage.
Species affects some services more than others. Ash trees with EAB pressure have become one of the most common removal jobs in Columbus. Large oaks and cottonwoods are the most expensive removal jobs by size. Ornamental trees like crabapples and serviceberries are generally easier to prune and remove than the same-height shade tree.
What You Get With an ISA Certified Arborist
When you hire a certified arborist for tree work in Columbus, you are paying for formal training, real credentials, and the judgment to make decisions that protect your trees — and your property — long-term. The cost difference between a certified arborist and an unlicensed crew is often modest. The difference in outcomes, particularly on high-value trees or complex jobs, can be significant.
Arborist Solutions is ISA Certified Arborist-led on every job. Our team includes ISA Certified Arborists and a TRAQ-qualified arborist for risk assessment work. Ohio Licensed Pesticide Applicators are on staff for all chemical treatments.
What to Watch Out For
Be cautious of quotes given without a site visit, any recommendation to top a tree, unusually low bids that do not account for cleanup and disposal, and door-to-door solicitation in the days after a storm. A legitimate arborist will walk your property before quoting any job.
Ready to get a quote?
The most accurate price comes from a site evaluation. Request a consultation below — that is the best place to start.
Request a Consultation →
