How much does a Arborist make?
Arborists work with trees, shrubs, and other plants. They ensure trees are healthy and safe. On average, an Arborist makes about $64,141 a year. Many factors can influence an Arborist's salary. These include experience, location, and the size of the company.
Salaries for Arborists can vary widely. The bottom 10% earn around $32,827 a year. The top 10% make over $190,000. Here are some common salary ranges for Arborists:
- Bottom 10% earn $32,827
- 25% earn $47,116
- 50% earn $61,404
- 75% earn $89,981
- Top 10% earn over $190,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Arborist?

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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $127,642
In Billings, professionals work to maintain trees in both urban and rural settings. Employers often include local forestry firms. Working in this area offers chances to connect with nature while supporting community growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $99,856
Tree care in San Francisco combines urban challenges with beautiful landscapes. Companies like Urban Forestry Solutions offer work that improves city green spaces. Job seekers can expect to work in a vibrant, eco-conscious city.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $99,042
Phoenix presents a unique environment for tree care. Here, tree trimmers manage desert flora and urban trees. Firms such as Desert Landscapes provide opportunities in this growing city, balancing desert conditions with city living.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $93,696
San Diego offers a mix of coastal and urban tree care. Workers support both natural and developed landscapes. Companies like Coastal Greenery offer jobs that blend the beauty of the coast with urban planning.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $93,036
Louisville provides a mix of commercial and residential tree care. Businesses like City Trees and Parks employ professionals to maintain the city’s tree canopy. Working here involves supporting both urban and suburban environments.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $88,230
In Tampa, tree care professionals work in a warm climate with diverse tree species. Employers such as Sunshine Landscapes offer jobs that include working in both natural and urban settings. This city provides a dynamic environment for tree care.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $87,800
Houston’s tree care industry thrives with a focus on both urban and suburban areas. Companies like Green Thumb Landscapes hire individuals to maintain the city’s extensive tree cover. This role involves balancing the needs of a growing city with its natural beauty.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $85,283
Stamford offers a blend of suburban and urban tree care opportunities. Employers such as Tree Care Plus seek professionals to maintain the city’s parks and green spaces. This city provides a mix of tree care in both residential and business districts.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $84,684
In Indianapolis, tree care professionals manage a variety of tree species in both urban and rural areas. Companies like City Greens hire individuals to maintain the city’s tree canopy. Job seekers can expect to work in a growing city with diverse tree care needs.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $84,679
Grand Rapids presents a mix of tree care opportunities in both urban and natural settings. Employers such as River Valley Tree Care hire professionals to maintain the city’s trees. This city offers a blend of urban development and natural beauty.
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What are the best companies a Arborist can work for?

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SavATree
Average Salary: $151,951
SavATree offers Arborist jobs with competitive salaries. They provide tree care services across the United States and Canada. Job seekers can look forward to working with a team that values professional development and safety.
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Almstead Tree, Shrub & Lawn Care Company
Average Salary: $114,053
Almstead Tree offers Arborist jobs with attractive compensation. They operate in the greater Boston area. Employees enjoy a collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth and specialized training.
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Joshua Tree Experts
Average Salary: $107,760
Joshua Tree Experts provides Arborist jobs with a good salary. They operate in California. The company focuses on tree care, offering diverse projects and a supportive team atmosphere.
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Eversource Energy
Average Salary: $97,840
Eversource Energy offers Arborist jobs with a solid pay package. They operate in several states including Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package and a stable work environment.
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Preservation Tree Care
Average Salary: $81,769
Preservation Tree Care offers Arborist jobs with a decent salary. They provide tree care services in New Jersey and New York. The company is known for its commitment to quality and safety.
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BrightView Landscapes
Average Salary: $79,117
BrightView Landscapes offers Arborist jobs with competitive pay. They operate in various locations across the United States. The company promotes professional growth and offers a dynamic work environment.
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Ostvig Tree Care
Average Salary: $78,333
Ostvig Tree Care provides Arborist jobs with a good salary. They are located in the Pacific Northwest. The company values experienced Arborists and offers a family-oriented work culture.
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ACRT
Average Salary: $75,333
ACRT offers Arborist jobs with a fair salary. They operate in various locations in the United States. Employees benefit from a supportive team and opportunities for professional development.
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Bartlett Tree Experts
Average Salary: $73,539
Bartlett Tree Experts offers Arborist jobs with a reasonable salary. They operate in several states including California, Texas, and Florida. The company is known for its commitment to safety and quality.
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Tree Specialists, Inc.
Average Salary: $65,833
Tree Specialists, Inc. provides Arborist jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in the southeastern United States. The company focuses on customer satisfaction and offers a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Arborist?
Arborists have the unique opportunity to earn more by expanding their skill set and embracing growth opportunities. They can focus on various areas to increase their income. One effective way is to specialize in a niche, such as tree health care or large tree removal. Specialization can command higher rates and attract more clients.
Another important factor is gaining additional certifications. Certifications from reputable organizations, such as the International Society of Arboriculture, can boost an arborist's credibility and marketability. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying jobs and client trust. Networking also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with other professionals, such as landscapers and property managers, can lead to referrals and new job opportunities. Staying updated on the latest industry trends and techniques ensures an arborist remains competitive. Finally, investing in quality tools and equipment can improve efficiency and safety, leading to better job performance and potentially higher pay.
Investing in marketing and branding can also make a significant difference. An arborist who markets their services effectively can attract more clients and increase their income. Creating a professional website and leveraging social media can reach a broader audience. Attending industry conferences and workshops can also provide valuable learning experiences and networking opportunities.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Specialize in a niche area.
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Network with other professionals.
- Stay updated on industry trends.
- Invest in quality tools and marketing.



