Alright, let’s cut right to it. People always want to know what it’s going to cost to get a tree taken down in Kansas City. There’s no magic number, but there are patterns and real ranges. That’s what you actually care about. Not fluff, not guesses, actual breakdowns of what makes the price go up or down.

The Average Cost in Kansas City
Tree removal in Kansas City usually runs anywhere from $300 to $2,000 per tree. That’s the wide range. Most standard backyard removals (nothing massive, nothing hanging over a house) will land somewhere between $500 and $1,200. Bigger or trickier trees, like a 70-foot oak leaning toward power lines, can hit $2,500 or more.
And don’t forget, stump removal is usually a separate service. That adds an extra $100 to $400, depending on the size. If you want to dive deeper, here are some useful breakdowns:
Why Tree Removal Costs Matter
It’s not just about the bill. It’s about risk. Trees are heavy, unpredictable, and they don’t forgive mistakes. If you hire the cheapest guy with no insurance, you might save $200, but you’re betting your house, your neighbor’s fence, or worse, your safety.
Kansas City gets plenty of storms, and a lot of us live with old trees in our yards. Paying for a professional tree removal service is really paying to avoid damage, lawsuits, and insurance nightmares. If you’re curious about the insurance side, check these out:
- Who Is Responsible for Tree Removal?
- Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal?
- Does Home Insurance Cover Tree Removal in Kansas City?
Factors That Drive the Price
Here’s what really affects the bill:
- Tree size – Height and diameter matter. A 30-foot tree isn’t the same as an 80-foot oak.
- Location – Middle of the yard? Easy. Wedged between two houses under power lines? Complicated.
- Condition – Dead or rotting trees can be brittle and dangerous.
- Emergency service – Storm just dropped a limb on your roof at 2 AM? You’re paying extra.
- Cleanup – Some companies include it, others charge extra. Always ask.
When to Actually Remove a Tree
Don’t remove a tree just because it’s big. Remove it when it’s:
- Diseased or dying
- Storm-damaged
- Leaning dangerously
- Cracking at the base
- Uprooting sidewalks, driveways, or foundations
Sometimes it’s also about space or aesthetics, but the safest move is always getting a professional tree assessment first.
How It’s Done (The Basics)
Here’s what a typical Kansas City tree removal looks like:
- Assessment – Crew checks hazards, power lines, and structures.
- Climb or bucket truck – Depending on access.
- Piece by piece – Limbs down first, then trunk, stump if you’re paying for that.
- Cleanup – Logs, brush, sawdust chipped or hauled.
It looks simple, but it’s not. Every cut changes the tree’s balance. That’s why hiring pros matters.
Mistakes People Make
- Hiring uninsured or unlicensed guys because they’re “cheap.” If something goes wrong, it’s on you.
- Not asking if stump grinding is included.
- Assuming a tree is safe because it “looks fine.” Many rotten trees are hollow.
- Trying to DIY a big removal. Honestly, don’t.
What Happens If You Don’t Do It Right
- Wait too long – Storms take it down for you, onto your roof or car.
- Hire the wrong crew – You pay twice: once for the job, once for the damage.
- Skip stump removal – You get termites, tripping hazards, or regrowth.
The Bottom Line
Tree removal in Kansas City isn’t pocket change, but it’s not something to gamble on either. Plan for $500 to $1,500 for an average tree, more if it’s big or risky. Pay attention to who you hire, confirm insurance, and get everything in writing, what’s included, what’s extra. That’s how you avoid headaches and keep your property safe.
FAQ: Tree Removal Costs in Kansas City
Q: Who should I trust for tree removal in Kansas City?
A: I’m Jose Maldonado, the owner of Omar Tree Service. My crew and I have been handling everything from small backyard tree removals to big storm-damaged oaks across Kansas City for years. We’re licensed, insured, and local. If you want the job done safely and without surprises, that’s exactly what we do.
Q: What’s the average cost to remove a tree here?
A: Most trees in Kansas City cost between $500 and $1,200 to remove. Smaller trees can be a few hundred, while big or complicated ones can run $2,000+. Stump grinding is usually extra.
Q: Is stump removal always included?
A: Nope. Some companies leave it out. At Omar Tree Service, we’re upfront about what’s included so you don’t get a surprise bill later.
Q: Can I remove a tree myself to save money?
A: Honestly, unless it’s a tiny tree you can push over, don’t. Tree removal is dangerous. I’ve seen too many DIY attempts end in damage or injury.
Q: How fast can you handle an emergency tree removal?
A: Storm damage doesn’t wait. My team is on call for emergencies, and we do same-day or even middle-of-the-night removals when needed.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Service LLC
Located: 3020 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, MO
Phone: +1 (816) 694-6352
Get Directions from Google Maps