How much does a tree removal cost in Madison, WI?

The average tree removal in Madison, WI costs $1,266 in 2026. Costs range from $317 for a basic project to $5,277 for a high-end renovation. Madison is 6% more expensive than the national average of $1,200.

What is the labor rate for contractors in Madison?

The average contractor labor rate in Madison, WI is $32.15/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 $1,013 in Madison.

Are materials more expensive in Madison?

Madison has a material cost index of 99 (national average = 100). Materials cost about 1% less than the national average. For a tree removal, materials account for 20% of the cost, approximately $253.

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

Yes, a tree removal typically requires building permits in Madison, WI. The average permit cost in Madison is $1,066. Always confirm requirements with the Madison building department before starting work.

Is a tree removal a good investment in Madison?

A tree removal provides an estimated 30% ROI nationally. In Madison, where the median home price is $244,011, this project costs about 0.5% of your home value. This is a small percentage of home value, making it a relatively low-risk improvement.

Tree Removal in Madison, WI — Costs $317 to $5,277

What does tree removal cost in Madison? Average $1,266, ranging $317–$5,277. Labor runs $32.15/hr locally — 6% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Madison, WI Market

+6% vs national

Labor Rate

$32.15/hr

Material Index

Avg Permit Cost

$1,066

Median Home Price

$244,011

Madison is a mid-sized city in Wisconsin with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a tree removal, which helps keep pricing competitive. Costs in Madison run slightly above the national average, though the gap is modest enough that smart material choices and timing can close it. At a median home price of $244,011, homeowners in Madison should weigh the project cost (0.5% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.

Low Estimate

$317

National: $300

Mid-Range

$1,266

National: $1,200

High End

$5,277

National: $5,000

Per Sq Ft

National: $0

Duration: 4-8 hours

DIY: Hard

Permits: Required

ROI: 30%

Tree Removal Cost Calculator for Madison

Adjusted for Madison's labor rate ($32.15/hr) and material costs (index 99).

Project Size: 200 sq ft

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Quality Level

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

Estimated Total in Madison

$1,215

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (80%)$1,013

At Madison's average rate of $32.15/hr (7% above national avg)

Materials (20%)$253

Material cost index 99 (1% below national baseline of 100)

Tree Removal vs. Home Value in Madison

Metric	Madison	National Avg
Tree Removal (Mid-Range)	$1,266	$1,200
Median Home Price	$244,011	$350,000
Project as % of Home Value	0.5%	0.3%
Estimated ROI	30%	30%
Median Household Income	$60,182	$75,000

What Affects the Price in Madison

1Local labor rates ($32.15/hr in Madison)
2Material cost index (99 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 Madison, WI

Deck and Pergola Combination

$36,079

HardROI 60%

Artificial Turf Installation

$15,462

HardROI 45%

Pond and Waterfall Installation

$10,267

HardROI 30%

Irrigation System Installation

$6,210

HardROI 55%

Second Story Addition

$206,167

HardROI 60%

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction

$154,625

HardROI 80%

Room Addition

$92,775

HardROI 55%

Home Addition

$82,140

MediumROI 60%

Tree Removal in Other Wisconsin Cities

Milwaukee, WI

$1,401

+11%Pop. 577,222

Green Bay, WI

$1,244

-2%Pop. 107,395

Kenosha, WI

$1,206

-5%Pop. 99,889

Racine, WI

$1,031

-19%Pop. 78,860

Appleton, WI

$1,123

-11%Pop. 75,644

Waukesha, WI

$1,488

+18%Pop. 72,489

Eau Claire, WI

$1,194

-6%Pop. 70,478

Oshkosh, WI

$1,096

-13%Pop. 66,778

Planning a Tree Removal in Madison

Building permits are typically required for a tree removal in Madison. The average permit fee in this area is $1,066, 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 Madison, skilled contractors charge an average of $32.15/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Madison household earning $60,182/year, this project at $1,266 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.

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