Let’s get straight to it: tree trimming costs money. But how much depends on a bunch of things most people don’t think about until they’ve got overgrown branches creeping over the roof or smacking the side of their house during a storm.
If you’re looking for a magic number, I’ll tell you this: most basic tree trimming jobs here in Kansas City will run somewhere between $250 and $700. It could be more. It could be less. Depends on the tree. Depends on the job. And yeah depends on who you hire.
Why Tree Trimming Costs What It Costs
Tree trimming is more than cutting off a few limbs. We’re not just swinging chainsaws around. We’re working up high, around power lines, near fences, roofs, windows, and we’re doing it safely. That means insurance, experience, and proper gear. All of that adds to the cost.
Here’s what affects the price:
- Tree size: Bigger trees mean more time, more labor, and sometimes climbing equipment or bucket trucks. A 20-foot ornamental tree is not the same as a 60-foot oak leaning over your driveway.
- Location: If your tree’s in the front yard with clear access, great. But if it’s in the backyard, behind a fence, above your garage, or near power lines, that’s a different situation.
- Type of tree: Some trees are easy to work on. Others have thick, tangled limbs that take forever to prune.
- How long has it been since the last trim? If it’s been 10 years and your tree’s never been touched, expect to pay more. It’s rehab at that point.
- Debris removal: You want the limbs hauled away? That’s part of the job, but it adds labor, fuel, and disposal costs.
You call and ask for a price over the phone? I’ll try to give you a ballpark, but I can’t give you an exact number without seeing the tree. And if someone gives you a dirt-cheap price without looking at the job, I’d be cautious. You don’t want someone learning tree work on your property.
When Should You Trim a Tree?
Here’s the short answer: before it becomes a problem.
Late winter or early spring is usually the best time for most trees, especially here in Missouri. The tree’s dormant, the leaves are gone, we can see the structure, and the wounds heal faster once growth kicks in. But I trim year-round; it just depends on the species and the reason.
If you’ve got branches near your roof, touching your house, or overhanging the driveway, don’t wait. That’s not a seasonal issue. That’s a damage-waiting-to-happen issue.
What Happens If You Don’t Trim Your Trees?
A few things.
- Overgrowth = risk. Big limbs get heavy. Especially during storms. We get enough wind and snow in Kansas City that weak limbs can snap fast and do real damage.
- Pest problems. Dense, tangled canopies attract insects and disease. Especially when no airflow or sunlight is getting through.
- Looks bad. Not to sound harsh, but an untrimmed tree makes your whole property look rough. It’s like having a nice house and letting the roof cave in.
- Tree health suffers. Trimming isn’t just about appearance. It’s about structure, balance, and directing growth so the tree stays strong.
And here’s the kicker: wait too long, and what could’ve been a $400 trim turns into a $1,200 removal. Not exaggerating. We’ve seen it.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Let’s be real. Not everyone wants to pay for tree work. I get it. But here’s what people mess up most:
- DIY trimming with no plan. If you don’t know what you’re cutting, you could stress the tree, cause imbalance, or worse, hurt yourself.
- Topping trees. Don’t let anyone sell you on topping. It weakens the tree, ruins its shape, and leads to more problems later.
- Hiring uninsured, untrained crews. You could be liable if someone gets hurt on your property and they’re not insured. That’s not a scare tactic, it’s reality.
- Trimming at the wrong time. Some trees (like oaks) shouldn’t be cut during certain months because of diseases like oak wilt. You need someone who knows the timing.
How We Handle Tree Trimming at Omar Tree Service
When you call us, we don’t give cookie-cutter quotes. I came out, looked at your trees, asked what you wanted done, and told you what I think the tree needed. If you just want it cleaned up, we’ll do that. If the tree’s a safety risk, I’ll tell you straight, no games.
We’re licensed. We’re insured. And we’ve been trimming trees in Kansas City for over 30 years. I don’t send random guys out. This is my company, my name, and I take it seriously.
So, What Should You Expect to Pay?
Here’s a rough breakdown for Kansas City homeowners:
- Small trees (under 25 feet): $250–$400
- Medium trees (25–50 feet): $400–$700
- Large trees (50+ feet): $700–$1,200+
Again, that’s just a general idea. I’ve done big, complicated trees that hit $1,500. I’ve also done quick trims for $200. Depends on what’s going on.
If you’ve got trees on your property that haven’t been trimmed in a few years, don’t wait. Whether it’s about safety, looks, or long-term health, trimming matters more than people think.
Call me, Jose Maldonado, at Omar Tree Service LLC:
📍3020 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, MO
📞 (816) 694-6352
