Let’s just get to it:
The average cost to remove an oak tree usually runs somewhere between $600 and $3,500. That’s a big range, I know. But it depends on a few things, mainly size, location, and risk level. I’ve been doing tree removals in Kansas City for 30 years, and oak trees are one of the more common big ones we get called out for. They’re tough, they’re heavy, and if they’re in the wrong spot, they’re dangerous.
Size matters more than people think
A small oak tree (let’s say 20–30 feet tall) might cost you $600 to $900 to remove. That’s if it’s in an open yard, not too close to a house or power line. But most oaks we deal with aren’t small like that. Around here in Kansas City, a lot of oaks are 60 to 100 feet tall, sometimes even more, especially the old ones that have been sitting in someone’s yard for decades. Removing one of those can easily cost $1,500 to $3,500, especially if it’s close to structures or tangled in overhead lines.
And if it’s dead and brittle? That makes the job more dangerous, which can bump the price even higher.
Why does it cost what it costs?
A lot of folks ask why it’s so expensive to remove an oak tree. Fair question. Here’s what they don’t always realize:
- Oak is dense wood, it’s way heavier than some other trees, so it takes more time and effort to cut, lower, haul, and chip.
- You usually need a crew, not just one guy with a chainsaw. We’re talking climbers, ground workers, maybe a bucket truck, ropes, and rigging.
- Disposal matters. Oak logs are heavy, and if you want them hauled away instead of left on your property, that adds to the cost. A single trunk can weigh thousands of pounds.
- Stump grinding is extra. Most people don’t realize that. Removing the tree and grinding the stump are two separate jobs. A stump grind might run $150–$500, depending on the diameter.
What people get wrong about oak tree removal
One of the biggest mistakes I see? Folks wait too long. They see some dead limbs or a slight lean, and they figure, “Eh, it’s been like that a while. I’ll deal with it later.”
Don’t. Oak trees are strong, but when they start dying, they don’t give you much warning before dropping huge limbs or the whole tree. That’s not just dangerous. That’s a lawsuit waiting to happen if it falls on a neighbour’s property.
Another issue: hiring unlicensed or uninsured guys off Facebook or Craigslist. Sure, you might save $500, but if something goes wrong, if they drop a limb on your roof or get hurt on your property, that’s all on you. We’re licensed and insured for a reason. Because stuff goes wrong sometimes, and when it does, you need to be covered.
How we do it at Omar Tree Services LLC
We start by showing up and looking at the whole picture. Not just the tree, but how close it is to your home, fences, sheds, power lines, the driveway, all that. Then we look at the size and health of the tree. Is it still solid? Is it hollow inside? Is it safe to climb, or do we need a lift?
From there, we plan out every single cut where the limbs will drop, where the ropes go, and where the chipper’s set up. It’s not just chopping stuff down. It’s controlled, methodical, and tailored to each property. And every oak tree is different. Some are tall with big spreads, others are wide and squatty but still heavy as hell.
When to remove an oak tree
Here are some signs it’s time to call us:
- Dead limbs are falling more often
- Large cracks in the trunk or big limbs
- Fungus or mushrooms growing near the base
- It’s leaning more than it used to
- Bark is falling off in large chunks
- Roots are exposed or lifting sidewalks
Sometimes the tree isn’t completely dead, but it’s too close to the house or foundation. Or it’s blocking a project pool, patio, or driveway expansion. We get that, too. Safety and practicality come first.
What happens if you don’t do it right?
Best case? You end up with a mess that takes days to clean. Worst case? Someone gets hurt. I’ve seen limbs fall and take out fences, roofs, and cars. I’ve also seen DIY jobs where the homeowner tried to fell an oak tree with a rental chainsaw and almost took out their porch. Not worth it.
Also, if you cut it the wrong way or don’t drop it in the right spot, you might damage the root system of surrounding trees or tear up your yard. And let’s not forget: Kansas City weather doesn’t play around. One storm and a half-dead oak can turn into a full-blown emergency.
Bottom line
Oak tree removal isn’t cheap, and it shouldn’t be. It’s dangerous, technical work that takes experience, equipment, and a crew that knows what they’re doing. We’ve been doing this in Kansas City for 30 years. If you’ve got an oak that needs to come down, give us a call. We’ll come out, take a look, and give you a fair quote: no pressure, no BS.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Services LLC
Licensed & Insured in Kansas City
📞 (816) 694-6352
