As someone who’s been trimming and removing trees in the Greater Memphis area for over a decade, I can tell you firsthand: no two tree removals are the same. You might think it’s just a matter of cutting and hauling, but the truth is, the cost of removing a tree depends on a whole lot more than you might expect.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what you can actually expect to pay for tree removal in 2025, what factors influence the cost, and how to make sure you’re not getting ripped off. I’ll also share some tips based on real experiences right here in Memphis.

The Real Cost of Tree Removal in Memphis (2025 Update)

So, let’s get down to it. Based on what we’re seeing in 2025 across Memphis and surrounding areas like Bartlett, Germantown, and Southaven, here’s a general idea of pricing:

Small Trees (under 25 ft): $200–$500
Medium Trees (25–50 ft): $400–900
Large Trees (50+ ft): $800–$2,500+
Stump Grinding (optional): $100–$300

Now, those are typical ranges, but I recently quoted a job in East Memphis where the customer had a massive oak tree leaning over their garage. Because of the crane we needed and the tight access, it ended up just over $3,000. On the flip side, I removed a skinny pine from a Cordova front yard for just $275.

Bottom line? Until a pro sees the tree in person, take any “flat fee” pricing with a grain of salt.

Why Tree Removal Costs Vary So Much

Tree Size & Species

Bigger trees mean more time, more crew, more equipment, and more cleanup. And some trees (like sweetgums with tons of limbs or rotting trunks) are harder to work with than others.

Location on Your Property

Is the tree near your home? Power lines? A fence? Accessibility makes a huge difference. Trees in backyards with no truck access require a lot more rigging and labor.

Condition of the Tree

If the tree is dead or rotting, it’s more dangerous to take down. That means special precautions, often with a lift or crane.

City Permits and Regulations

In some Memphis neighborhoods, particularly those with HOAs or older urban areas, we may need to pull a permit or notify the city. That adds time and cost.

Hidden Costs People Don’t Think About

Let me tell you about a call I got last month from a guy in Germantown. He hired a cheap Craigslist guy to remove a tree for $300. Sounded like a steal—until the guy ghosted him halfway through the job. The limbs were still on the ground, the trunk was half cut, and the city was threatening a fine.

He ended up calling us to finish the job… and pay a bit more than he would have if he just hired a licensed pro to begin with.

Always ask:

Is cleanup included?
Are you insured?
Is stump grinding part of the quote?
Will you haul off all debris?

Some companies quote cheap then add on fees later. Don’t fall for it.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Don’t Gamble With Gravity

We get it—you want to save a buck. But unless the tree is super small and you have the tools and experience, DIY tree removal can go south fast.

Real Talk:

A couple years ago in Collierville, a homeowner tried to cut down a leaning tree himself. The tree twisted on the way down and took out part of his porch. His insurance denied the claim since it wasn’t done by a professional. Ouch.

Hiring a licensed, insured tree service means:

The job gets done safely
Your property is protected
Cleanup is included
You’re not liable if someone gets hurt

How to Save Money on Tree Removal in Memphis

Schedule in the Off-Season: Winter and early spring are slower months—many companies offer discounts.
Bundle Services: Need trimming too? Stump grinding? Doing it all at once may lower your cost.
Get Multiple Quotes: Three is the magic number. Avoid the super-low one (it’s usually a red flag).
Ask About Payment Plans: We offer financing options—many local services do.

What Working With Our Team Looks Like

At Memphis Tree Service Pro, we make it simple:

Free, no-pressure quote
Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
Licensed, bonded, and fully insured
Cleanup always included
Friendly, local team that shows up on time

We treat your yard like it’s our own—because around here, reputation is everything.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until That Tree Becomes a Bigger Problem

If you’re staring at a dead or leaning tree, don’t put it off. Waiting can cost you more if it falls, damages your roof, or injures someone.

We’re proud to serve homeowners all over Memphis, from Midtown to Millington, with honest, professional service. Get in touch today and let’s take care of that tree—the right way.

✅ Ready for a free estimate? Call us: 901-676-TREE or fill out our quick online form. We’ll come out, take a look, and give you a no-nonsense quote you can count on.