THE 10 BEST Arborist Services in PORTLAND, OR
| Business Name | Key Services | Best For | Address | Hours | PS Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Forest Pro | Tree removal, pruning, stump grinding, specialty tree care | ISA-certified arborists on every crew | 2950 NW 29th Ave Suite 400, Portland, OR 97210 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.7/5 |
| Monkeyman’s Tree Service | Tree trimming, removal, storm cleanup, arborist reports | Award-winning comprehensive care | Multiple locations serving Portland Metro | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.8/5 |
| Urban Timber Tree Service | Tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, emergency service | 24/7 emergency response | Portland Metro Area | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sat: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | 4.6/5 |
| Honl Tree Care | Tree pruning, removal, cabling, planting consultation | Family-owned with community focus | 6310 SE Ivon St, Portland, OR 97206 | Mon-Fri: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | 4.5/5 |
| Rich’s Tree Service | Tree removal, pruning, stump grinding, emergency care | Three generations of family expertise | 20321 NE Sandy Blvd, Fairview, OR 97024 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.4/5 |
| All Around Arbor Tree Service | Tree removal, pruning, hazard removal, hedge trimming | Competitive pricing and reliability | 4533 SE 67th Ave Ste B, Portland, OR 97206 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 4.3/5 |
| Oregon Tree Care | Tree trimming, removal, cabling, arborist reports | Champion tree preservation | 6800 NE 59th Place Suite 110, Portland, OR 97218 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Weekends: Emergency Only | 4.6/5 |
| Samsara Tree Care | Tree pruning, removal, risk assessment, crane services | Storm damage specialists | Portland & Vancouver Metro | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.7/5 |
| Tree Masters | Tree pruning, ornamental shaping, hazard removal | Meticulous cleanup and quality work | 5100 SE Harney Dr, Portland, OR 97206 | Mon-Sun: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM | 4.5/5 |
| PDX Tree Service | Tree removal, trimming, risk assessment, stump grinding | Budget-friendly family operation | Portland Metro Area | Varies by season | 4.2/5 |
#1. Urban Forest Pro – Best for ISA-certified arborists on every crew
Key Highlights:
- Every crew member is an ISA Certified Arborist, not just one person on staff
- Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award for 6 consecutive years
- Over 15 years serving the Portland community with master arborists
Urban Forest Pro stands out in Portland because they don’t just keep one certified arborist on staff for show. Every single person on their crews has earned ISA certification. This means when they show up at your property, you’re getting expert-level care from everyone working on your trees.
They offer the full range of services you need. This includes tree removal, specialty pruning for Japanese maples and pines, tree trimming, cabling, and stump grinding. Many customers praise their attention to detail and their willingness to explain what needs to be done and why.
The company has built a strong reputation across Portland and surrounding areas like Clackamas and Happy Valley. They handle both residential and commercial properties with equal skill. Their team can tackle emergency tree removal when storms damage your trees or take care of routine maintenance to keep your landscape healthy.
#2. Monkeyman’s Tree Service – Best for award-winning comprehensive care
Key Highlights:
- Won Best Tree Service in Portland for three years running
- ISA certified arborists leading every crew since 2008
- Provides detailed arborist reports and educational approach to tree care
Monkeyman’s Tree Service has earned its stellar reputation through consistent excellence. They’ve been named the best tree service company in Portland multiple times. This recognition comes from their dedication to quality work and customer education.
The company offers everything from basic tree trimming to complex storm damage cleanup. Their services include tree transplanting, mulching, land clearing, and organic plant health care. They also provide certified arborist reports and evaluations when you need professional documentation.
What sets them apart is their educational approach. They don’t just do the work and leave. Instead, they take time to explain what’s happening with your trees and how to care for them properly. Customers appreciate this transparency and the team’s obvious expertise. They serve the entire Portland metro area, including Milwaukie, Clackamas, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and Tigard.
#3. Urban Timber Tree Service – Best for 24/7 emergency response
Key Highlights:
- Voted Portland’s Best Tree Service of 2024 by Willamette Week
- 24/7 emergency service available for urgent tree situations
- Family-owned company founded by certified arborist Jeremy Wagener in 2014
Urban Timber Tree Service knows that tree emergencies don’t wait for business hours. That’s why they offer round-the-clock emergency services throughout the Portland metro area. When a tree falls on your house or threatens your property, they respond quickly.
This family-owned business takes pride in protecting Portland’s urban canopy. Their certified arborists provide expert tree removal, trimming, health preservation, and stump grinding. They use eco-friendly practices and competitive pricing to serve the community well.
The company earned recognition from Willamette Week as Portland’s best tree service in 2024. With over 120 five-star reviews across multiple platforms, customers consistently praise their professionalism and care. They serve all areas including SE Portland, Downtown, Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Gresham, Tigard, and surrounding communities. The team focuses on clear communication from your first call through project completion.
#4. Honl Tree Care – Best for family-owned with community focus
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned business serving Portland since 2009 with integrity and excellence
- Founder Chad Honl was former Friends of Trees staff member and ISA Certified Arborist
- Every crew is led by an ISA Certified Arborist
Honl Tree Care brings a personal touch to professional tree care. Chad Honl started this business after working with Friends of Trees, where he helped plant over 2,000 trees per season. His passion for trees and community service shows in every project.
The company provides comprehensive services including tree pruning, removal, cabling, soil analysis, and tree planting consultations. They take time to understand your concerns and develop the right solutions. Their arborist-led crews handle everything from routine maintenance to complex removals.
Customers praise their careful work and reasonable pricing. The team respects your property and strives for complete satisfaction every time. They’ve built strong relationships throughout SE Portland and the metro area. The company maintains its Tree City USA commitment by participating in community service projects year-round. Licensed, bonded, and insured, they bring both expertise and peace of mind to every job.
#5. Rich’s Tree Service – Best for three generations of family expertise
Key Highlights:
- Over 35 years serving Portland since 1989
- Three generations of the Gillum family work in the business
- Offers three removal options: standard, down-only, and low-impact
Rich’s Tree Service started when Rich Gillum was just 23 years old with a borrowed trailer and chainsaw. He earned his arborist certification and built the business into a trusted Portland institution. Now his sons and grandchildren work alongside him.
This family expertise means your trees get care from people who truly understand the craft. They provide tree removal, emergency services available 24/7, stump grinding, and professional pruning. The company offers flexible removal options so you can choose what fits your budget and property needs.
Customers appreciate their friendly service and willingness to help with tree removal permits. The team makes the entire process smooth and stress-free. They’re particularly skilled at removing trees in challenging locations. While they can be busy during peak seasons, their quality work and honest approach make them worth the wait. The company serves the entire Portland metro area from their Fairview location.
#6. All Around Arbor Tree Service – Best for competitive pricing and reliability
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned business serving Portland since 2006
- Over 50 years of combined team experience
- Ranked among top 5 arborists by Rip City Review
All Around Arbor has built a solid reputation through fair pricing and dependable service. They’ve been taking care of Portland trees for nearly two decades. Their experienced team handles residential and commercial properties with equal skill.
The company provides full-service tree care including removal of damaged trees, stump grinding, tree trimming, and shaping. They work on trees that encroach on property lines, threaten water pipes, or need removal for safety reasons. Their arborists understand how to maintain tree health while improving appearance.
Customers highlight their reasonable rates and thorough work. The team cleans up completely after each job, leaving your property looking great. They’re licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection. The business has earned high ratings for using quality equipment, maintaining proper licensing, offering fair estimates, and providing reliable customer service. They serve Portland and surrounding communities from their SE Portland location.
#7. Oregon Tree Care – Best for champion tree preservation
Key Highlights:
- Founded by Damien Carré, who serves on the board of Ascending The Giants
- Specializes in preserving heritage and champion trees
- Provides ethical tree care focused on community and environmental preservation
Oregon Tree Care brings unique expertise to Portland’s tree services. Founder Damien Carré is passionate about protecting old-growth and champion trees. He volunteers with organizations that document and preserve the world’s most significant trees.
The company offers professional tree trimming, pruning, removal, and stump grinding throughout Portland. They also provide tree planting consultations, soil testing, cabling and bracing, and detailed arborist reports. Their approach emphasizes tree health and longevity whenever possible.
What makes them special is their commitment to preservation. Before recommending removal, they explore every option to save valuable trees. They work closely with Hoyt Arboretum and other conservation groups. The team takes pride in precision work and community development through their services. Their certified arborists provide 24-hour emergency services when needed. They serve the greater Portland metropolitan area with a focus on sustainable tree care practices.
#8. Samsara Tree Care – Best for storm damage specialists
Key Highlights:
- Founded in 2015 by ISA Certified Arborists with TRAQ qualifications
- Specializes in emergency storm damage response with crane capabilities
- Offers financing options through Wisetack for major projects
Samsara Tree Care excels at handling tree emergencies, especially after severe weather. Their team responded to countless calls during Portland’s major ice storm in January 2024. They have the equipment and expertise to safely remove fallen trees from roofs and driveways.
The company provides complete tree services including pruning, removal, cabling, and stump grinding. Their certified arborists perform tree risk assessments to identify potential hazards before they become problems. They use advanced rigging techniques and heavy equipment for complex removals.
Customers praise their responsiveness during emergencies and their professional approach. The team works efficiently while protecting your property and surrounding landscape. They offer financing to make major tree work more affordable. Their arborists love answering questions and helping you understand your trees better. They serve both Portland and Vancouver metro areas with dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Available for residential, commercial, and municipal clients.
#9. Tree Masters – Best for meticulous cleanup and quality work
Key Highlights:
- Owner Tom Burke has over 40 years of experience since 1984
- ISA Certified Arborist with specialized training from prestigious California program
- Known for exceptional cleanup and attention to detail
Tree Masters brings old-school craftsmanship to modern tree care. Tom Burke learned proper pruning and shaping from a prestigious Marin County tree service before bringing his skills to Portland. His dedication to quality shows in every job.
The company handles tree pruning, ornamental shaping, and hazardous tree removal around houses, structures, and wires. Their crews are professionally trained in correct techniques. They use The Tree Climbers Guide as their reference for proper pruning procedures and safety.
Customers consistently mention their thorough cleanup as a standout feature. The team doesn’t just do the tree work and leave. They meticulously clean the surrounding landscape until everything looks perfect. They’re particularly skilled at working near obstacles and in tight spaces. Available seven days a week with extended hours, they make scheduling convenient. The company serves Portland and surrounding areas from their SE Portland location with competitive pricing and reliable service.
#10. PDX Tree Service – Best for budget-friendly family operation
Key Highlights:
- Brothers-owned business offering competitive pricing
- Provides comprehensive tree risk assessments before starting work
- Available year-round for all tree service needs
PDX Tree Service operates as a tight-knit family business with multiple brothers working together. This family approach helps them keep costs reasonable while delivering quality service. They focus on thorough risk assessments to understand exactly what each job requires.
The company handles tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding throughout the Portland metro area. They take time during assessments to identify structural problems and potential risks. This careful evaluation leads to better recommendations and safer outcomes.
Customers appreciate their honest approach and willingness to explain options clearly. The team works together like a well-oiled machine, making jobs go smoothly and efficiently. They clean up thoroughly, removing all debris from your property. While they’re newer to the industry compared to some competitors, they’ve earned praise for their attention to detail and great teamwork. They serve Portland and surrounding communities including Oregon City with dedication to customer satisfaction.
How much does it cost to hire an arborist in Portland?
Tree service costs in Portland vary quite a bit depending on what you need done. Simple tree trimming usually runs between $300 to $700 for average-sized trees. Larger trees or specialty pruning can cost $1,000 or more.
Tree removal is more expensive because of the complexity and risk involved. Small trees under 30 feet might cost $200 to $500 to remove. Medium trees between 30 and 60 feet typically range from $500 to $1,500. Large trees over 60 feet can cost $1,500 to $3,000 or even more if they’re near buildings or power lines.
Several factors affect the final price. These include tree size, location, health condition, and how easy it is to access. Trees near structures or power lines require more careful work and specialized equipment. Emergency services cost more than scheduled appointments. Stump grinding adds another $100 to $400 depending on size. Most Portland arborists offer free estimates, so get quotes from several companies to compare prices and services.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Portland?
Portland has specific rules about when you need a permit to remove trees. For trees on private property, you need a permit if the tree measures 12 inches in diameter or larger. You measure this at 4.5 feet above the ground, which arborists call DBH or diameter at breast height.
Street trees always require a permit for removal regardless of size. Street trees are any trees growing in the public right-of-way, typically between the curb and sidewalk. Even if the tree is near your property, it belongs to the city if it’s in that space.
Special zones have stricter rules. If your property is in an environmental overlay zone, historic district, or other regulated area, permits may be required for smaller trees starting at 6 inches in diameter. Breaking these rules can cost you serious money. Fines range up to $1,000 per tree or $100 per inch of diameter. When you get a permit, Portland requires you to plant a replacement tree. Many arborist companies help with the permit process, which saves you time and ensures everything gets done correctly.
What should I look for when hiring an arborist?
Start by checking for proper certification. Look for arborists with ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification. This shows they’ve passed comprehensive exams and understand tree biology, proper pruning techniques, and safety standards. Certified arborists have letters and numbers after their names like PN-8913A.
Make sure the company carries proper insurance and licensing. They should have liability insurance to protect your property and workers’ compensation for their crew. Ask to see proof of both. In Oregon, tree service companies need a CCB (Construction Contractors Board) license. Check that their license is current and in good standing.
Get multiple estimates before choosing. Meet with at least three arborists and ask them to explain what work needs doing and why. Good arborists educate customers rather than just selling services. Ask about their cleanup policy, equipment, and timeline. Check online reviews and ask for references. Watch out for red flags like arborists who recommend topping trees (cutting off the top), use climbing spikes on trees that aren’t being removed, or pressure you to make quick decisions. Trust your instincts about who you feel comfortable working with.