Last Updated: July 15, 2026
You need a tree removed and you want to know what it will cost. Maybe a large oak is leaning toward your house. Maybe storm damage split a maple in your backyard. Or maybe a dead tree is finally becoming a liability after years of putting it off. Whatever the reason, Tarzan Tree Removal helps Brooklyn and NYC homeowners get clear, honest pricing without surprises.
This guide breaks down real tree removal costs for Brooklyn and all five NYC boroughs. We use national average data from Fixr and adjust for NYC pricing, which runs about 30 percent above the national average because of tight spaces, permit requirements, and limited equipment access. Use our calculator above for an instant estimate, then call us at (347) 833-5862 for a free on-site assessment.
Factors That Drive Tree Removal Cost
Tree removal costs vary dramatically based on several key factors. According to Fixr data, height and diameter account for 30 percent of cost variation, tree type accounts for 20 percent, and health and accessibility each account for 15 percent. Understanding these variables helps you use a tree removal cost calculator effectively and avoid surprises on your final bill.
Tree Height and Diameter
The single biggest cost factor is tree size. A tall tree requires more crew time, specialized equipment, and careful sectioning. Here is how tree removal costs break down by height in Brooklyn and NYC, adjusted 30 percent above national averages:
- Small trees (under 30 feet): $200 to $700
- Medium trees (30 to 60 feet): $650 to $1,450
- Large trees (60 to 80 feet): $1,450 to $2,500
- Extra-large trees (80+ feet): $2,500 to $4,500
Trunk diameter also plays a role. A thick trunk means more cuts, more debris, and longer chipper time. Trees wider than 24 inches typically add $200 to $500 to the base price in NYC.
Tree Species and Condition
Different species present different challenges. Hardwoods like oak and maple are denser and take longer to cut than softwoods like pine. Based on national data adjusted for NYC, here is what common Brooklyn tree species cost to remove:
- Pine: $260 to $1,950
- Maple: $1,300 to $2,340
- Oak: $1,170 to $2,600
- Sycamore: $910 to $3,250
Dead trees often cost less to remove because they are lighter and easier to section. However, a partially dead tree with brittle branches can cost more because of the safety precautions needed to prevent pieces from falling unexpectedly.
Location and Accessibility
In NYC, location is everything. A tree in an open backyard with truck access costs far less than one wedged between two brownstones with power lines overhead. Tree removal costs in dense urban environments generally run higher because:
- Crews must use manual climbing instead of bucket trucks
- Cranes may be needed to lift sections over buildings
- Street permits and parking restrictions add time and cost
- Pedestrian traffic requires additional safety barriers
Our team specializes in tight-space removal throughout Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. We have the equipment and experience to handle trees that other companies turn down.
Tree Removal Cost by Borough
Costs vary slightly across NYC boroughs based on accessibility and local regulations. Here are real Brooklyn-adjusted cost ranges based on national data from Fixr, which reports a national average of $435 and a range of $400 to $1,100:
- Brooklyn: Average $520 to $1,430 for medium to large trees
- Queens: Average $460 to $1,260 with good yard access
- Manhattan: Average $780 to $4,000 due to tight spaces and permits
- Bronx: Average $400 to $1,200 for standard residential removals
- Staten Island: Average $330 to $1,040 with easier suburban access
These ranges reflect typical projects. Your actual cost depends on the specific factors measured by our calculator above.
| Tree Size | National Average | Brooklyn/NYC (30% premium) |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $155 - $500 | $200 - $700 |
| Medium (30-60 ft) | $500 - $1,100 | $650 - $1,450 |
| Large (60-80 ft) | $1,100 - $2,000 | $1,450 - $2,500 |
| Extra Large (80+ ft) | $2,000 - $2,015 | $2,500 - $4,500 |
| National avg cost | $435 | $565 (Brooklyn avg) |
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the base removal price, several add-on services can affect your total. Our calculator above includes these as optional add-ons:
- Stump grinding: $150 to $500 per stump in NYC
- Wood chipping and hauling: Usually included by most services
- Firewood cutting: $50 to $100 if you want to keep the wood
- Lot clearing: $650 to $6,500 depending on vegetation density
- Emergency storm removal: 1.5x to 2x standard pricing
- Crane service: $500 to $1,500 for oversized or dangerous trees
- NYC street tree permit: $100 if the tree is on city property
Always ask whether these services are included in your estimate. Our quotes are fully transparent with every line item listed upfront. If you also need stump removal, we can bundle it for a better rate.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal
Many NYC homeowners wonder if their insurance will pay for tree removal. The answer depends on the situation. If a healthy tree falls during a storm and damages your property, most policies cover the removal. If a tree is dead or clearly hazardous and you ignored it, coverage may be denied.
If a neighbor's tree falls on your property, your insurance typically handles it, though they may seek reimbursement from the neighbor's policy. Always document the tree's condition with photos before and after storms.
When Is the Cheapest Time for Tree Removal
Tree removal costs generally range lower during winter months when demand drops. December through February is the off-season for most tree services. You can often save 20 to 30 percent by scheduling during this window.
Spring and summer are peak seasons. After major storms, prices spike due to high demand for emergency tree service. Planning ahead and booking in the slower months keeps your project affordable.
Why Choose Tarzan Tree Removal
We have been Brooklyn's trusted certified arborist team since 2012, born from Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Our certified arborists handle every project with precision and care.
- Licensed and insured with full coverage
- 24/7 emergency response across all five boroughs
- Same-day service available for most jobs
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Complete cleanup included on every project
- Family-owned with deep NYC roots
Call us at (347) 833-5862 for a free estimate or schedule same-day service. We swing into action when you need us most. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Need routine maintenance instead? Our tree trimming service keeps healthy trees in shape and prevents the kind of overgrowth that leads to emergency removals down the road.