How much does a tree removal cost in Tacoma, WA?

The average tree removal in Tacoma, WA costs $1,480 in 2026. Costs range from $370 for a basic project to $6,166 for a high-end renovation. Tacoma is 23% more expensive than the national average of $1,200.

What is the labor rate for contractors in Tacoma?

The average contractor labor rate in Tacoma, WA is $37.62/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 $1,184 in Tacoma.

Are materials more expensive in Tacoma?

Tacoma has a material cost index of 115 (national average = 100). Materials cost about 15% more than the national average. For a tree removal, materials account for 20% of the cost, approximately $296.

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

Yes, a tree removal typically requires building permits in Tacoma, WA. The average permit cost in Tacoma is $1,336. Always confirm requirements with the Tacoma building department before starting work.

Is a tree removal a good investment in Tacoma?

A tree removal provides an estimated 30% ROI nationally. In Tacoma, where the median home price is $501,552, 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 Tacoma, WA — Costs $370 to $6,166

What does tree removal cost in Tacoma? Average $1,480, ranging $370–$6,166. Labor runs $37.62/hr locally — 23% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Tacoma, WA Market

+23% vs national

Labor Rate

$37.62/hr

Material Index

115

Avg Permit Cost

$1,336

Median Home Price

$501,552

Tacoma is a mid-sized city in Washington with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a tree removal, which helps keep pricing competitive. At 23% above the national average, Tacoma is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $501,552, this tree removal represents just 0.3% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.

Low Estimate

$370

National: $300

Mid-Range

$1,480

National: $1,200

High End

$6,166

National: $5,000

Per Sq Ft

National: $0

Duration: 4-8 hours

DIY: Hard

Permits: Required

ROI: 30%

Tree Removal Cost Calculator for Tacoma

Adjusted for Tacoma's labor rate ($37.62/hr) and material costs (index 115).

Project Size: 200 sq ft

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Quality Level

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

Estimated Total in Tacoma

$1,421

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (80%)$1,184

At Tacoma's average rate of $37.62/hr (25% above national avg)

Materials (20%)$296

Material cost index 115 (15% above national baseline of 100)

Tree Removal vs. Home Value in Tacoma

Metric	Tacoma	National Avg
Tree Removal (Mid-Range)	$1,480	$1,200
Median Home Price	$501,552	$350,000
Project as % of Home Value	0.3%	0.3%
Estimated ROI	30%	30%
Median Household Income	$78,142	$75,000

What Affects the Price in Tacoma

1Local labor rates ($37.62/hr in Tacoma)
2Material cost index (115 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 Tacoma, WA

Deck and Pergola Combination

$42,070

HardROI 60%

Artificial Turf Installation

$18,030

HardROI 45%

Pond and Waterfall Installation

$11,968

HardROI 30%

Irrigation System Installation

$7,243

HardROI 55%

Second Story Addition

$240,400

HardROI 60%

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction

$180,300

HardROI 80%

Room Addition

$108,180

HardROI 55%

Home Addition

$95,744

MediumROI 60%

Tree Removal in Other Washington Cities

Seattle, WA

$1,929

+30%Pop. 737,015

Spokane, WA

$1,730

+17%Pop. 228,989

Vancouver, WA

$1,674

+13%Pop. 190,915

Bellevue, WA

$1,892

+28%Pop. 151,854

Kent, WA

$1,472

-1%Pop. 136,588

Everett, WA

$1,637

+11%Pop. 110,629

Renton, WA

$1,735

+17%Pop. 106,785

Spokane Valley, WA

$1,736

+17%Pop. 103,597

Planning a Tree Removal in Tacoma

Building permits are typically required for a tree removal in Tacoma. The average permit fee in this area is $1,336, 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 Tacoma, skilled contractors charge an average of $37.62/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Tacoma household earning $78,142/year, this project at $1,480 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 Tacoma

View labor rates, material costs, and project estimates for Tacoma, WA.

Explore All Project Cost Guides

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

View All Project Costs