How Much Does Tree Service Cost in Denver, CO?
Updated March 2026 · Denver metro area · Based on BLS wage data and local market costs
Itemized Cost Breakdown
Estimated for Number of trees: 1 tree · Mid-Range tier · Local cost index: 1.05x
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Tree removal/trimming Cutting, lowering limbs, and cleanup | $158 | $1,129 | $2,100 |
Stump grinding Grind stump 6-12 inches below grade | $79 | $197 | $315 |
Debris hauling Chipping branches and hauling away wood | $53 | $184 | $315 |
Crane rental Crane for large or difficult-access trees | $0 | $788 | $1,575 |
Labor Arborist and ground crew | $210 | $630 | $1,050 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $500 | $2,928 | $5,355 |
Costs adjusted for local market conditions. Actual prices vary based on project specifics, contractor, and material choices.
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View itemized breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Tree removal/trimming | $158 | $2,100 |
| Stump grinding | $79 | $315 |
| Debris hauling | $53 | $315 |
| Crane rental | $0 | $1,575 |
| Labor | $210 | $1,050 |
| Total | $500 | $5,355 |
Estimates based on local cost data. Get quotes from licensed contractors for accurate pricing.
What Drives Tree Service Cost in Denver?
The average cost of tree service in Denver, CO is $945 per tree. Most homeowners pay between $210 and $3,150, depending on the scope of work, materials selected, and contractor experience.
Tree trimming, removal, stump grinding, and emergency services.
Local Labor Costs
Construction workers in Denver earn an average of $25.3/hr — 11% above the national average. Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of total project cost.
Materials in CO are subject to 8.77% sales tax, which adds to the overall project cost. For a $945 project, expect roughly $33 in tax on materials alone.
Denver issued approximately 17,600 residential building permits in 2023, putting it in the upper range of US construction markets. High permit activity can mean busier contractors and longer wait times for scheduling.
Factors That Affect Cost
- Tree size
- Location
- Complexity
- Stump removal
- Emergency timing
- Contractor experience — Established contractors with strong reviews may charge 10-20% more
- Local cost of living — Denver's cost index is 1.05x the national baseline
Best Time for Tree Service in Denver
Denver has cold winters with snow and dry, sunny summers. The building season is May through October. Spring snowstorms can delay early-season projects. High altitude affects concrete curing.
Best Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Lower demand often means better pricing and faster scheduling.
Peak Season (Higher Prices)
Dec, Jan, Feb
High demand can add 10-20% to project costs.
Monthly Weather in Denver
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg High | 45° | 48° | 56° | 62° | 72° | 83° | 90° | 87° | 79° | 66° | 52° | 44° |
| Avg Low | 16° | 19° | 27° | 34° | 43° | 52° | 58° | 57° | 47° | 35° | 24° | 16° |
| Rain (in) | 0.5 | 0.5 | 1.3 | 1.7 | 2.3 | 1.8 | 2.2 | 1.8 | 1.3 | 1 | 0.8 | 0.5 |
Source: Open-Meteo historical data (2024)
Licensing & Permits in CO
Colorado does not require a state-level general contractor license. Denver and most jurisdictions require local contractor licensing. Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical trades require state licenses.
Verify a contractor's license at Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
How to Save Money on Tree Service
- Get at least 3 quotes from licensed contractors in Denver
- Schedule during off-peak months (May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep) for lower prices
- Clarify permit costs upfront — they vary by jurisdiction
- Consider mid-range materials for the best value-to-quality ratio
- Verify contractor licensing through Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies
- Ask about material package deals or contractor supplier discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost?
Tree Service Cost in Other Cities
Other Costs in Denver
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