How Much Do Trees Cost to Plant in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

On average, planting a tree costs $300, with most homeowners spending between $150 and $2,000 per tree. Hiring an arborist to plant trees costs between $50 and $150 per hour, with prices varying depending on the tree size, type, and location. Planting a tree adds beauty to your yard, boosts curb appeal, and can even increase your property's value. Hiring a professional arborist ensures the tree is planted correctly, increasing its chance of thriving.

Tree Planting Cost Factors

The cost to plant a tree depends on factors including the tree size, quantity, required materials, and local labor rates.

Tree Size

The size of your tree significantly impacts planting costs. Larger trees require bigger containers, use more soil, and weigh more, which increases transport and labor costs. Due to their weight and size, they may also need special equipment for excavation and installation.

Number of Trees

The more trees you plant, the lower your cost per tree will be. Arborists often charge a base fee that covers travel, equipment, and supplies, so adding extra trees spreads out these costs. For instance, planting one small tree might cost around $100, but each additional tree could add only $40 to $70.

Materials

The type of tree you choose determines material costs. Common varieties like fruit trees are more affordable, while rare or slow-growing species like shaded trees can be pricier due to their scarcity.

Labor

Labor, including transport, makes up nearly 30% of your tree-planting project. Hiring a local arborist costs between $50 and $150 per hour. Planting a small tree might take one person an hour or two, while installing a large tree can require a team and a full day due to the need for excavation, site preparation, and specialized equipment.

Additional Tree Planting Cost Factors

Factors including the site's accessibility, required permits, soil quality, and landscaping all impact the total price of planting a tree. Plus, you'll need to account for ongoing costs, such as maintenance and landscaping.

Accessibility

Limited access to the planting site can increase labor costs. If the area is far from a vehicle dropoff point, narrow, or challenging to access, you'll pay more in labor due to the extra time and effort required to transport the tree. Navigating tight spaces or carrying supplies over long distances requires additional labor, and removing obstacles like fences or shrubs to improve access can also add to the cost.

Permits

You often won't need a permit to plant small and medium trees. However, some localities require permits for taller trees, so check with your arborist or local planning office before beginning the project.

Soil Quality

Good soil quality can reduce your planting costs. Soft, loamy soil free of rocks is easier and quicker to work with. In contrast, heavy clay or rocky soil can be more challenging and require additional work or soil amendments like high-quality topsoil and nutrients to ensure your tree thrives.

Ongoing Costs

Keep in mind the ongoing costs of caring for your new trees. Regular pruning and trimming are essential to maintain their health and appearance. Smaller trees mostly need watering and mulching, while larger trees benefit from routine pruning and shaping. Incorporating these tasks into your regular garden maintenance can help keep costs down.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Arborist

Planting small to medium trees can be a DIY project if you're comfortable with manual labor and have good soil conditions. However, for larger trees, soil amendments, or if your yard requires grading, it's best to hire a local arborist. They have the necessary tools and equipment for large tree-planting projects, helping you save on the cost of materials. An arborist can also advise on the best tree species for your yard and ensure they're planted correctly to thrive for years to come. 

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.