Are Arborists Expensive? Understanding the Cost for Harrisonburg Tree Care
- Derek Lawson

- Aug 17
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 29
Are Arborists Expensive? What to Know About Tree Care Costs

It’s a question many homeowners have when considering professional tree care: Are arborists expensive? The answer really depends on the work you need done – and the value you get in return. In the Harrisonburg area, hiring a arborist might seem pricey if you only compare it to doing the job yourself. However, what you’re paying for is expertise, safety, and long-term peace of mind. For example, the national average cost for a tree care project is around $800, but that ranges from small jobs that cost just a couple hundred dollars to very large projects that can be a few thousand. An arborist might charge an hourly rate (often between $75 and $250 or a flat fee for a specific job. While that might sound like a lot, remember that this includes professional labor, use of expensive equipment, insurance coverage, and often the disposal of debris.
Consider what you get for that price. Arborists have years of training – they know how to prune a tree without harming it, how to spot issues early, and how to take down a tree safely. This expertise can save you money in the long run. How so? Imagine a cheap handyman improperly cutting your tree; it could lead to the tree dying or a big limb falling on your roof later (with a far bigger repair bill). Investing in a professional means the job is done right the first time, avoiding costly mistakes. Plus, arborists carry liability insurance and workers’ comp, so if accidents happen on the job, you’re not on the hook – that protection is part of what you’re paying for.
It’s also worth noting that many tree service companies in Harrisonburg and Staunton offer free estimates, and they’ll talk you through the costs before any work begins. At Blue Mountain Arbor, we believe in fair, transparent pricing. We strive to be a tree service near me that delivers great value. As one of the leading tree service Harrisonburg and tree service Staunton experts, our goal is to keep your trees healthy and you happy. Among tree service companies near me, we may not be the absolute cheapest, but we’re committed to being the most trustworthy and effective. In the end, hiring our arborists often saves you money by preventing future problems. We handle everything from routine trimming to complex tree removal near me with professionalism – a worthwhile investment in your property.



