Why does tree removal cost so much?
You are paying for controlled dismantling, not cutting. A small tree under 5 metres runs $250 to $800, but a 10 to 15 metre tree at $2,500 to $6,000 must come down piece by piece, often with climbers or a crane, around powerlines, structures and fences. Extra-large trees can reach $15,000. Stump grinding and green waste haulage are usually separate again. Tip: never take the cheap uninsured quote; a mistake with a large tree is a house repair, not a garden problem.
Full ranges, factors and sources: Tree Removal cost guide.