How much does a tree removal cost in Denver, CO?

The average tree removal in Denver, CO costs $1,512 in 2026. Costs range from $378 for a basic project to $6,302 for a high-end renovation. Denver is 26% more expensive than the national average of $1,200.

What is the labor rate for contractors in Denver?

The average contractor labor rate in Denver, CO is $38.49/hour, compared to the national average of $30/hour. For a tree removal, labor typically accounts for 80% of the total cost, which is approximately $1,210 in Denver.

Are materials more expensive in Denver?

Denver has a material cost index of 117 (national average = 100). Materials cost about 17% more than the national average. For a tree removal, materials account for 20% of the cost, approximately $302.

Do I need a permit for a tree removal in Denver?

Yes, a tree removal typically requires building permits in Denver, CO. The average permit cost in Denver is $2,288. Always confirm requirements with the Denver building department before starting work.

Is a tree removal a good investment in Denver?

A tree removal provides an estimated 30% ROI nationally. In Denver, where the median home price is $482,996, this project costs about 0.3% of your home value. This is a small percentage of home value, making it a relatively low-risk improvement.

Tree Removal in Denver, CO — Costs $378 to $6,302

What does tree removal cost in Denver? Average $1,512, ranging $378–$6,302. Labor runs $38.49/hr locally — 26% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Denver, CO Market

+26% vs national

Labor Rate

$38.49/hr

Material Index

117

Avg Permit Cost

$2,288

Median Home Price

$482,996

As one of the largest metros in Colorado, Denver has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 26% above the national average, Denver is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. The median home in Denver is valued at $482,996, putting this project at about 0.3% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 30% ROI.

Low Estimate

$378

National: $300

Mid-Range

$1,512

National: $1,200

High End

$6,302

National: $5,000

Per Sq Ft

National: $0

Duration: 4-8 hours

DIY: Hard

Permits: Required

ROI: 30%

Tree Removal Cost Calculator for Denver

Adjusted for Denver's labor rate ($38.49/hr) and material costs (index 117).

Project Size: 200 sq ft

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Quality Level

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Denver

$1,452

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Denver market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (80%)$1,210

At Denver's average rate of $38.49/hr (28% above national avg)

Materials (20%)$302

Material cost index 117 (17% above national baseline of 100)

Tree Removal vs. Home Value in Denver

Metric	Denver	National Avg
Tree Removal (Mid-Range)	$1,512	$1,200
Median Home Price	$482,996	$350,000
Project as % of Home Value	0.3%	0.3%
Estimated ROI	30%	30%
Median Household Income	$76,237	$75,000

What Affects the Price in Denver

1Local labor rates ($38.49/hr in Denver)
2Material cost index (117 vs national 100)
3Tree height
4Trunk diameter
5Proximity to structures
6Stump grinding

Popular Upgrades

Stump grinding
Stump chemical treatment
Wood chipping for mulch

Other Projects in Denver, CO

Deck and Pergola Combination

$42,928

HardROI 60%

Artificial Turf Installation

$18,398

HardROI 45%

Pond and Waterfall Installation

$12,209

HardROI 30%

Irrigation System Installation

$7,393

HardROI 55%

Second Story Addition

$245,300

HardROI 60%

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction

$183,975

HardROI 80%

Room Addition

$110,385

HardROI 55%

Home Addition

$97,668

MediumROI 60%

Tree Removal in Other Colorado Cities

Colorado Springs, CO

$1,294

-14%Pop. 478,961

Aurora, CO

$1,313

-13%Pop. 386,261

Fort Collins, CO

$1,235

-18%Pop. 169,810

Lakewood, CO

$1,428

-6%Pop. 155,984

Thornton, CO

$1,308

-13%Pop. 141,867

Arvada, CO

$1,620

+7%Pop. 124,402

Westminster, CO

$1,604

+6%Pop. 116,317

Pueblo, CO

$1,207

-20%Pop. 111,876

Planning a Tree Removal in Denver

Building permits are typically required for a tree removal in Denver. The average permit fee in this area is $2,288, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 4-8 hours from start to finish.

A tree removal is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Denver, skilled contractors charge an average of $38.49/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Denver household earning $76,237/year, this project at $1,512 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

Tree Removal — National Guide

See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.

All Construction Costs in Denver

View labor rates, material costs, and project estimates for Denver, CO.

Explore All Project Cost Guides

Compare costs across 120+ home improvement projects in 3,636 cities nationwide.

View All Project Costs