How much does a Arborist make?
An arborist finds joy in caring for trees and their surroundings. This career offers both growth opportunities and a chance to be outdoors. On average, arborists earn about $63,533 a year. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the employer.
The salary of an arborist varies greatly. Beginners might start at around $32,827. As they gain experience, salaries increase. The most experienced arborists can earn upwards of $190,000 a year. Here is a breakdown of average salaries:
- 10th percentile: $32,827
- 25th percentile: $47,116
- 50th percentile: $61,404
- 75th percentile: $89,981
- 90th percentile: $118,558
- 95th percentile: $147,135
- 99th percentile: $190,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Arborist?

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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $117,823
In Billings, tree care professionals thrive with ample outdoor work. Local companies like Tree Care Northwest offer diverse projects. This city's smaller size leads to strong community ties, making it ideal for those seeking personal connections.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $98,667
Working in San Francisco means tackling urban tree care challenges. Companies such as ArborGreen provide unique opportunities. The city's lush environment and commitment to sustainability create a rewarding work setting.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $96,885
San Diego's mild climate supports year-round tree work. Employers like Tree Service San Diego value skilled professionals. The city's beautiful parks and gardens offer a pleasant backdrop for daily tasks.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $96,042
Louisville offers a mix of urban and rural tree care work. Firms such as AAA Tree Service look for experienced candidates. The city's rich history and friendly atmosphere enhance the work experience.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $90,307
In Phoenix, tree care professionals enjoy working in a desert climate. Companies like Desert Tree Service need skilled workers. The city's expansive parks and green spaces provide ample opportunities for tree maintenance.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $85,828
Houston's warm climate allows for continuous tree work. Local firms such as Tree Masters offer various projects. The city's rapid growth brings new opportunities for those in the tree care field.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $85,374
Tampa's mild weather supports tree care all year. Companies like Tree Pros Tampa seek dedicated professionals. The city's beautiful beaches and parks create a pleasant work environment.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $84,779
Stamford offers a mix of residential and commercial tree care. Firms such as Stamford Tree Service provide diverse projects. The city's green spaces and commitment to tree health make it a great place to work.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $81,671
Minneapolis's tree care professionals enjoy working in a city with a strong environmental focus. Companies like Arbor Care provide numerous opportunities. The city's parks and natural beauty enhance the work experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $81,613
In San Jose, skilled tree care workers find many opportunities. Local businesses like ArborCare offer various projects. The city's tech-driven environment brings innovative approaches to tree care.
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What are the best companies a Arborist can work for?

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Joshua Tree Experts
Average Salary: $110,777
Joshua Tree Experts offers a top-tier salary for arborists. They are known for their dedication to tree health and safety, operating in various states across the US. Their arborists work on residential and commercial projects, ensuring beautiful and safe trees.
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Almstead Tree, Shrub & Lawn Care Company
Average Salary: $108,905
Almstead Tree offers competitive pay for arborists. They focus on tree, shrub, and lawn care, serving clients in several states. Their arborists enjoy a dynamic work environment and the satisfaction of enhancing landscapes.
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SavATree
Average Salary: $98,079
SavATree provides good pay for arborists. They specialize in tree and shrub care and operate nationwide. Their arborists are involved in preserving and enhancing urban forests and landscapes.
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Eversource Energy
Average Salary: $97,840
Eversource Energy offers attractive salaries for arborists. They focus on utility services and operate in multiple states. Their arborists work on maintaining trees along utility rights-of-way, ensuring safety and reliability.
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ACRT
Average Salary: $84,706
ACRT offers solid pay for arborists. They provide a range of tree care services and serve several states. Their arborists enjoy a focus on tree health and safety, working on a variety of projects.
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Preservation Tree Care
Average Salary: $79,462
Preservation Tree Care offers fair compensation for arborists. They specialize in tree health and care and operate in multiple regions. Their arborists focus on preserving the health and beauty of trees.
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BrightView Landscapes
Average Salary: $79,117
BrightView Landscapes provides good pay for arborists. They offer landscape, irrigation, and tree care services in several states. Their arborists work on enhancing public and private landscapes.
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Ostvig Tree Care
Average Salary: $78,333
Ostvig Tree Care offers competitive salaries for arborists. They focus on tree and shrub care and serve multiple states. Their arborists work on preserving the health and appearance of trees.
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Bartlett Tree Experts
Average Salary: $73,340
Bartlett Tree Experts offers good pay for arborists. They provide tree and shrub care services nationwide. Their arborists focus on maintaining the health and safety of trees in urban and rural settings.
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Tree Specialists, Inc.
Average Salary: $66,250
Tree Specialists, Inc. offers fair compensation for arborists. They provide tree care services in several states. Their arborists work on preserving and enhancing the health of trees in various environments.
How to earn more as a Arborist?
Arborists can increase their earnings by focusing on specific areas that add value and expertise. Specialization in tree care can open new opportunities and higher pay. For instance, arborists who obtain certifications in tree risk assessment can command higher fees. These certifications validate their skills and knowledge, making them more attractive to clients. Another way to boost income is by expanding one's service offerings. Providing services like tree pruning, disease management, and tree planting can attract a wider range of clients and increase revenue.
Expanding one's client base through marketing and networking also plays a crucial role. An arborist can attend local events and join professional organizations to meet potential clients. Building a strong reputation through positive reviews and referrals can lead to more business. Investing in quality equipment and staying updated with the latest tree care techniques can improve efficiency and service quality, further enhancing earnings. Additionally, forming partnerships with landscapers and property managers can provide steady referrals and long-term contracts.
Here are five factors that can help arborists earn more:
- Specialization: Obtain certifications and specialize in areas like tree risk assessment.
- Service Expansion: Offer a broader range of services such as pruning, disease management, and planting.
- Marketing and Networking: Attend events and join organizations to meet potential clients.
- Quality Equipment: Invest in the latest tools and stay updated with modern techniques.
- Partnerships: Form alliances with landscapers and property managers for referrals and contracts.



