How much does a Tree Climber make?
Tree climbers work in a unique and specialized field, often performing tasks that are both challenging and rewarding. On average, tree climbers earn a yearly salary of around $58,949. This number can vary depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. The salary range starts at about $38,125 for those just beginning in the field and can go as high as $89,080 for more experienced climbers.
Most tree climbers earn between $47,390 and $75,183 each year. This range shows the potential for growth and higher earnings as climbers gain more experience and expertise. While the job can be physically demanding, the rewards include a stable income, the satisfaction of performing an important service, and opportunities for career advancement. Climbing this career ladder requires dedication and a willingness to learn, but the financial benefits can be significant for those who succeed.
What are the highest paying cities for a Tree Climber?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $78,119
Portland offers a thriving environment for arborists with its lush, green landscapes. Companies like Davey Tree Expert and Arbor Care provide excellent opportunities. Portland's commitment to green spaces makes it a fantastic city for tree care professionals.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $72,918
Minneapolis has a robust demand for tree care services, thanks to its extensive urban tree canopy. With companies such as The Davey Tree Expert Company and Arboricultural Services Inc., job seekers can find stable and rewarding positions. The city’s focus on environmental sustainability offers ample growth opportunities.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $66,774
Nashville's warm climate and scenic urban areas create a steady need for skilled arborists. Prominent firms like TreeNewal and Southern Tree Pros are always looking for qualified professionals. The city’s commitment to maintaining its tree-lined streets provides many job prospects.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $66,334
Spokane’s beautiful natural surroundings make it a great place for tree care experts. Companies such as Tree People and The Davey Tree Expert Company offer solid career opportunities. Spokane's dedication to preserving its green spaces ensures steady work for arborists.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $64,962
Des Moines is known for its tree-filled neighborhoods and parks, making it an ideal location for tree care specialists. Local companies like Arbor Care and Davey Tree Expert provide excellent career paths. The city’s efforts to maintain its green spaces offer many job opportunities.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $64,156
Honolulu’s tropical climate and natural beauty create a high demand for tree care services. Companies such as Tree Pros of Hawaii and Hawaiian Arborists are actively hiring. The island’s lush environment provides a unique and rewarding work setting for tree professionals.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $62,515
San Jose offers many opportunities for arborists with its diverse urban landscapes. Firms like Davey Tree and Silicon Valley Tree Experts are always seeking skilled workers. The city’s commitment to maintaining its green areas makes it a great place for tree care professionals.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $61,750
Santa Rosa’s picturesque parks and gardens make it a perfect location for tree care specialists. Companies such as TreeNewal and Arbor Care Inc. provide excellent career opportunities. The city’s focus on environmental preservation ensures a steady demand for tree care services.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $60,879
Phoenix’s warm climate and extensive greenery create a need for skilled arborists. Local companies like Tree People and Urban Tree Care offer many job opportunities. The city’s efforts to maintain its trees make it an ideal place for tree care professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $59,777
San Diego’s beautiful coastal climate and vibrant urban areas make it ideal for tree care experts. Companies such as TreeNewal and Arboricultural Services Inc. offer stable and rewarding positions. The city’s dedication to its green spaces provides many job prospects for arborists.
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What are the best companies a Tree Climber can work for?

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NWI Tree Service & Landscaping
Average Salary: $72,250
NWI Tree Service & Landscaping offers exciting opportunities for Tree Climbers. They provide services across the Pacific Northwest, including cities like Seattle and Portland. Their team-focused approach ensures safe and rewarding work in diverse environments.
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ArborWorks, LLC
Average Salary: $70,691
ArborWorks, LLC pays competitively for Tree Climbers. They operate in the Midwest, with a strong presence in Illinois. ArborWorks values safety and professional development, offering extensive training and career growth.
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Wright Tree Service
Average Salary: $63,914
Wright Tree Service offers solid compensation for Tree Climbers. They cover a wide area from the Southeast to the Northeast. Wright Tree Service emphasizes safety and teamwork, with opportunities in various locations.
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Zielies Tree Service Inc.
Average Salary: $63,791
Zielies Tree Service Inc. provides good pay for Tree Climbers. They operate in the Midwest and New England. Their dedication to safety and training makes them a great choice for climbers looking for a rewarding career.
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Arbor Masters
Average Salary: $62,480
Arbor Masters offers attractive salaries for Tree Climbers. They serve clients in California and Texas. Arbor Masters focuses on safety and customer satisfaction, providing a supportive work environment.
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BrightView Landscapes
Average Salary: $62,244
BrightView Landscapes provides competitive pay for Tree Climbers. They offer services across many states, including Florida and Arizona. They focus on employee growth and safety, ensuring a positive work experience.
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Moon Valley Nurseries
Average Salary: $60,987
Moon Valley Nurseries offers a good salary for Tree Climbers. They operate in California and Arizona. Their commitment to safety and training makes them a reliable employer in the industry.
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Tri-State Tree Services
Average Salary: $60,188
Tri-State Tree Services provides a fair salary for Tree Climbers. They work in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. They emphasize safety and skill development, offering a supportive career path.
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Joshua Tree Experts
Average Salary: $59,417
Joshua Tree Experts offers solid compensation for Tree Climbers. They operate in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Their focus on safety and expertise makes them a good choice for climbers seeking stability.
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SavATree
Average Salary: $58,992
SavATree offers a competitive salary for Tree Climbers. They serve areas in the United States and Canada. Their emphasis on safety and customer care creates a positive working environment.
How to earn more as a Tree Climber?
A career as a tree climber can offer rewarding opportunities for those who are willing to work in an outdoor environment. By mastering certain skills and taking specific steps, it is possible to increase earning potential in this profession. One key factor is gaining experience and building a strong portfolio of successful projects. Experience and a proven track record can make a climber more attractive to potential employers and can lead to higher-paying job offers.
Another important factor is specializing in certain types of tree work. For example, those who become experts in pruning, trimming, or removing trees may command higher rates for their services. Developing specialized skills can also open up new job opportunities and allow a climber to take on more complex and challenging projects. Climbing professionals can further increase their earnings by obtaining certifications and training in areas such as arboriculture, tree risk assessment, and using specialized equipment. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to safety and quality work, which can lead to increased demand from clients and higher pay. Finally, networking and building relationships with other professionals in the industry can lead to new job opportunities and higher-paying contracts. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other tree climbers can all help to expand a climber's professional network and lead to more lucrative job offers.
By taking these steps, tree climbers can maximize their earning potential and build a successful career in this exciting field.
- Gain experience and build a portfolio
- Specialize in certain types of tree work
- Obtain certifications and training
- Network and build professional relationships



