How Much Does Tree Removal Cost in Memphis, TN in 2026?

Last updated: 2026-09-07 · Memphis, TN · 1433 words · 8 min read

Average Cost of Tree Removal in Memphis

In Memphis, TN, the price you pay to have a tree removed typically falls between $267 and $1,780 per tree. These figures are derived by applying Memphis’s local cost factor of 0.89 to the national range of $300‑$2,000. Small, easily‑accessible trees sit at the lower end of the spectrum, while large, hard‑to‑reach specimens push the cost toward the high end. Because labor rates in Memphis are generally lower than in many other metro areas, you’ll often see the lower side of the national range reflected in local quotes.

Tree Removal Cost by Material

The size and accessibility of a tree are the primary drivers of cost. Below are the typical Memphis price bands after the 0.89 cost adjustment.

• Small tree (under 30 ft, easy access): $178 – $534 per tree.
• Medium tree (30‑60 ft, moderate access): $356 – $890 per tree.
• Large tree (over 60 ft, rigging often required): $890 – $2,670 per tree.
• Stump grinding (per stump, after removal): $89 – $356.

These ranges include labor, equipment, and disposal, but they do not cover any special permits or extra services such as root removal.

Cost by Project Size in Memphis

When you have more than one tree or additional work like stump grinding, contractors often bundle services, which can affect the overall price.

• 1‑2 small trees with yard cleanup: $267 – $1,068.
• 1 large tree near a house (rigging and extra care required): $890 – $2,670.
• Three or more trees plus stump grinding (full lot clearing): $1,335 – $4,450.

Bundling multiple trees in a single visit usually reduces the per‑tree cost because the crew, equipment, and truck time are shared across the job.

What Affects the Price in Memphis?

Several factors can shift a quote up or down:

• Tree size and species: Large hardwoods such as oak or walnut are denser and require more effort to cut and chip than softwoods like pine.
• Proximity to structures: Trees that sit close to a house, garage, or utility lines often need rigging, which can add 50 % to 100 % to the base price.
• Access constraints: Narrow driveways, steep slopes, or limited drop‑zone space force crews to use specialized equipment, raising labor and equipment costs.
• Permits and protected species: Memphis enforces permits for trees that are listed as protected or that exceed a certain diameter. Permit fees and the paperwork process add roughly 10 % to the overall cost.

How to Save Money on Tree Removal in Memphis

Homeowners can keep expenses in check by following a few simple strategies:

1. Obtain at least three written estimates that include the same scope—tree size, stump grinding, haul‑away, and permits.
2. Combine several trees into one service call. Volume pricing often reduces the per‑tree rate by 10 %‑15 %.
3. Schedule the work during late winter (January‑February). Crews are less busy after the holiday rush and before the storm season, which can lead to lower labor rates.
4. If you have a wood‑burning stove or a woodworking hobby, ask the contractor to leave usable logs instead of chipping everything. This can shave $50‑$150 off the disposal portion.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

For a small, open‑space tree under 30 feet, a confident homeowner with proper safety gear (hard hat, chainsaw, and fall‑protection equipment) might tackle the job themselves. However, most scenarios in Memphis involve one or more of the following risks:

• Proximity to the house or power lines, which requires rigging and specialized training.
• Tree height over 30 feet, where the likelihood of injury spikes dramatically.
• Local insurance requirements that demand licensed, insured contractors.

Professional crews bring trucks, cranes, and certified arborists, and they carry liability and workers’ compensation coverage that protects you from costly lawsuits if an accident occurs.

What to Expect: The Tree Removal Process

Most Memphis contractors follow a consistent workflow:

1. Inspection and permit check: The crew assesses the tree’s health, size, and location, and verifies whether a city permit is required.
2. Quote delivery: A detailed estimate is provided, covering tree cutting, stump grinding, haul‑away, and any permit fees.
3. Drop‑zone preparation: The homeowner clears a safe area where the tree can be felled without damaging property.
4. Tree removal: Depending on size, the tree is either felled directly or climbed and rigged down with a crane.
5. Debris handling: Limbs and trunk sections are either chipped on‑site or loaded onto a truck for disposal.
6. Stump grinding and final cleanup: The stump is ground to below ground level, and the site is left tidy.

How Long Does It Take in Memphis?

For most residential jobs—small to medium trees with easy access—the entire process, from arrival to cleanup, can be completed in a single half‑day. Large trees that require rigging, or projects involving three or more trees plus stump grinding, often consume a full workday or longer. Weather delays are common during Memphis’s storm season (April‑June), so contractors may need to adjust schedules accordingly.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Beyond the headline price, be aware of these additional expenses that can appear on the final invoice:

• Permit fees: City permits for protected or large‑diameter trees typically range from $25 to $75.
• Extra disposal: Oversized trunks that don’t fit a standard chipper may require special hauling, adding $100‑$300.
• Roof or gutter repairs: Falling limbs can damage shingles or gutters, leading to follow‑up repair costs.
• Root or soil remediation: After stump grinding, you might need to fill the hole or re‑grade the area, especially if you plan to replant.

Paying for Tree Removal

Most Memphis tree‑service companies require payment upon completion, either by cash, check, or credit card. For larger projects (e.g., full‑lot clearing over $2,000), ask about:

• Staggered payment plans (e.g., 50 % up‑front, 50 % after job completion).
• Financing options through a third‑party provider that offers 0 % APR for 6‑12 months.
• Discounts for cash payments, which can shave 2 %‑5 % off the total.

Insurance Considerations

Always verify that the contractor carries both general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. In Memphis, storm‑damage tree removal is frequently covered by homeowners insurance, provided you can document the loss (e.g., a photo of a fallen tree after a thunderstorm). Preventive removal of a healthy tree, however, is considered a maintenance expense and is not reimbursable.

Does Tree Removal Increase Home Value?

Removing a hazardous or unsightly tree can boost curb appeal, improve sunlight exposure, and open up space for landscaping or additions. While the exact return on investment varies, a well‑executed removal often adds 1 %‑3 % to a home’s market value in Memphis. Conversely, leaving a dead or leaning tree on the lot can deter buyers and lower the appraisal.

How to Choose a Contractor in Memphis

Selecting the right professional is critical for safety and cost control. Follow these steps:

1. Check the company’s licensing with the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.
2. Confirm they have a current general liability policy of at least $1 million and workers’ comp coverage.
3. Read online reviews and ask for references from recent Memphis clients.
4. Ensure the written estimate details tree size, access conditions, stump grinding, haul‑away, and any permit fees.
5. Ask about equipment used (e.g., bucket crane, chippers) to gauge whether they can handle your specific job.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does tree removal cost in Memphis?

Tree removal in Memphis typically ranges from $267 to $1,780 per tree. Small trees under 30 feet fall between $178 and $534, medium trees between $356 and $890, and large trees over 60 feet can cost $890 to $2,670, depending on access and rigging needs.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Memphis?

Many neighborhoods in Memphis require a permit for removing large or protected species. Before any cutting begins, contact the city’s urban forestry or planning department to verify whether a permit is necessary and to obtain the appropriate paperwork.

Is tree removal covered by insurance?

If a storm‑damaged tree falls on your home or other structures, homeowners insurance in Memphis generally covers the removal and any related damage. Preventive removal of a healthy tree is considered a maintenance expense and is not covered.

When is the best time to remove a tree?

Late winter or early spring is ideal in Memphis. Trees are dormant, making them lighter and easier to cut, and crews have more open slots before the high‑demand storm season begins in April.

How long does tree removal take?

A simple, easily‑accessible tree can be removed in a few hours. Larger trees, especially those near a house or power lines, often require a full day or more, plus additional time for stump grinding.

Should I remove a tree stump too?

Stump grinding in Memphis costs between $89 and $356 per stump. Grinding eliminates the chance of regrowth, deters pests, and makes mowing or replanting easier, making it a worthwhile investment for most homeowners.