How much does a Arborist make?
Arborists, who care for trees, enjoy varying salaries based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for an arborist sits around $57,471. This means that most arborists make somewhere in this range each year. Salaries can differ based on several factors. For instance, arborists with more experience often earn more.
The salary data shows a clear trend. New arborists may start with a salary of about $32,827. As they gain more experience, their salaries rise. Experienced arborists, those at the top of their field, can earn up to $150,000 a year. This shows that dedication and hard work can lead to significant rewards in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Arborist?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $103,296
In San Francisco, tree care professionals enjoy mild weather and a strong economy. Companies like Davey Tree and Urban Forestry Group seek skilled arborists to maintain the city's lush urban landscape. Opportunities exist for those passionate about environmental stewardship.
Find Arborist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $98,125
San Diego offers a warm climate and vibrant communities that need tree maintenance. With firms like TreeNewal and Advanced Tree Care, arborists can find rewarding work. The city values green spaces, making it a great place for tree care careers.
Find Arborist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $87,729
In Phoenix, arborists work in a growing city with a need for tree care services. Companies like Bartlett Tree Experts and Tree Doctor provide jobs in urban and suburban settings. The city's expanding landscape offers many chances for those in the field.
Find Arborist jobs in Phoenix, AZ
-
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $83,373
Tampa’s mild climate and beautiful parks create a strong demand for arborists. Local firms such as T.D. Tree Services and Arbor Care are hiring. The city’s focus on maintaining its natural beauty provides a stable job market for tree care specialists.
Find Arborist jobs in Tampa, FL
-
Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $81,706
Stamford offers a blend of urban and suburban settings where tree care is essential. Companies like Davey Tree and Arbor Care of Connecticut need skilled workers. The city's commitment to green spaces ensures a steady need for arborists.
Find Arborist jobs in Stamford, CT
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $81,236
Minneapolis has a strong green community and a need for tree maintenance. With local companies such as Davey Tree and Arbor Care, arborists can find fulfilling work. The city values its trees, creating a steady demand for professionals in this field.
Find Arborist jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $74,482
Indianapolis offers a mix of urban and rural settings that require tree care. Companies like Davey Tree and International Tree Experts are hiring. The city's focus on maintaining its green spaces provides many opportunities for arborists.
Find Arborist jobs in Indianapolis, IN
-
Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $73,923
Wilmington provides a mix of urban and coastal environments where tree care is crucial. Local firms like Arbor Care of Wilmington and Wright’s Tree Service need skilled workers. The city’s commitment to its natural beauty offers many job opportunities for arborists.
Find Arborist jobs in Wilmington, NC
-
Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $72,652
Buffalo offers a mix of urban and suburban areas where tree care is essential. Companies like Davey Tree and International Tree Experts seek skilled workers. The city's commitment to its natural environment provides steady employment for arborists.
Find Arborist jobs in Buffalo, NY
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $71,293
Chicago’s diverse urban and suburban landscapes need skilled tree care professionals. Companies like Davey Tree and TreeNewal offer many opportunities. The city values its trees, ensuring a strong job market for arborists.
Find Arborist jobs in Chicago, IL
What are the best companies a Arborist can work for?

-
SavATree
Average Salary: $116,902
SavATree is a large tree care company offering a range of services. They operate across the United States and Canada, providing opportunities in many locations. Arborists here work with experienced teams and have access to advanced training and resources.
-
Almstead Tree & Shrub Care Co.
Average Salary: $108,315
Almstead Tree & Shrub Care Co. offers comprehensive tree care services in the northeast region of the U.S. The company is known for its commitment to quality and customer service. Arborists here gain valuable experience in urban and residential environments.
-
Joshua Tree Experts
Average Salary: $98,942
Joshua Tree Experts is a smaller, specialized firm that focuses on tree health and preservation. They operate primarily in California. Arborists here work in diverse settings, from urban parks to natural reserves, gaining varied experience.
-
Eversource Energy
Average Salary: $97,709
Eversource Energy provides utility services, including tree maintenance for power lines. They have a large presence in the northeastern U.S. Arborists here work in a critical role, ensuring the safety and efficiency of power delivery.
-
Bartlett Tree Experts
Average Salary: $72,398
Bartlett Tree Experts is one of the oldest and largest tree care companies in the U.S. They operate nationwide. Arborists here benefit from extensive training and the chance to work on diverse projects, from urban landscapes to large estates.
-
Homer Companies
Average Salary: $70,000
Homer Companies offers various services, including tree care, with locations across the U.S. Arborists here often work on commercial projects, gaining experience in managing large-scale tree maintenance.
-
ACRT, Inc.
Average Salary: $66,817
ACRT, Inc. is a specialized tree care company with operations in the southeastern U.S. Arborists here work in diverse environments, from urban settings to rural areas, gaining a wide range of experience.
-
Davey Tree
Average Salary: $49,052
Davey Tree is one of the largest tree care companies in the world. They offer a variety of services and operate across North America. Arborists here receive solid training and work on a broad range of projects.
-
Lucas Tree Expert Co, Inc
Average Salary: $41,737
Lucas Tree Expert Co, Inc. provides tree care services in the Great Lakes region of the U.S. Arborists here work in residential and commercial settings, gaining experience in a range of environments.
How to earn more as a Arborist?
Earning more as an arborist involves several key strategies. It is important to focus on continuous learning and skill development. This includes staying updated on the latest techniques in tree care and obtaining certifications that enhance your expertise. Networking with other professionals in the field can open up more job opportunities and potentially higher-paying positions.
Specializing in a niche area of arboriculture can also increase earning potential. This could mean focusing on urban forestry, tree risk assessment, or specialized tree health care. Gaining experience in these areas makes an arborist more valuable to employers. Investing in the right equipment and maintaining it well ensures efficiency and safety, which can lead to better job offers and higher pay.
Building a strong reputation through excellent work and positive client feedback is essential. Promoting your services effectively and managing a professional online presence can attract more clients. This increases the likelihood of higher-paying jobs. Here are five factors to consider:
- Obtain additional certifications and training.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Specialize in a niche area.
- Invest in quality equipment and maintain it well.
- Build a strong professional reputation.



