Hedge trimming cost: Pricing guide for every budget

Hedge trimming might look like yard work 101, but there’s a big difference between hacking away with clippers and creating those crisp lines that boost your property value. Getting it right takes skill, equipment, and more patience than most of us have on a Saturday afternoon. That’s exactly why most homeowners call in the professionals.

How long the job takes depends on the size, number of bushes, and their condition. Hedge trimming services in the US typically range from $45 to $125 per hour, depending on your location and complexity. Before you start calculating how many weekend hours you’d spend wrestling with hedge clippers, this guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to pay and why it might be the smartest investment you make in your property this year.

Average hedge trimming costs

Most hedge trimming professionals charge either by the hour (around $55) or by the foot (from $15), depending on the complexity. Garden maintenance cost varies significantly based on hedge type, height, access, and condition. I see that was listed here but I will keep my suggestion in. For basic trimming, expect hourly rates, while larger jobs like hedge removal or specialist work (like conifers) typically get quoted as a complete package.

The table below shows typical US rates for different hedge trimming scenarios, so you can confidently budget and avoid any nasty surprises when the quote arrives.

Factors affecting hedge trimming costs

Hand-trimming a hedge to maintain its shape and health (Source: iStock)

Several factors affect the average cost of trimming hedges:

Hedge size and condition

Bigger hedges take more time, plain and simple. If your hedges have gone rogue and grown out of control, professionals need ladders, ropes, and climbing gear to reach the top. This extra equipment and safety work bumps up the cost per linear foot, but it's worth it to avoid a trip to the ER.

Preparation and cleanup

Smart hedge trimming involves more than just the cutting. Professionals need clear access to your hedges, which might mean moving patio furniture or trimming nearby bushes first. After trimming, there's debris disposal to consider. To save money, you can handle the prep and cleanup yourself to knock a chunk off the final bill.

Your location

Living in major cities like New York, LA, or San Francisco means higher costs due to increased overhead and labor rates. Suburban and rural areas typically offer more competitive pricing. The good news? Airtasker helps you find local professionals who know your area’s going rates.

Accessibility 

Hard-to-reach properties or hedges near power lines require extra safety precautions and specialized equipment. If your landscaper needs to navigate steep slopes, tight spaces, or dodge electrical wires, expect to pay more for the added complexity and insurance requirements.

Benefits of hedge trimming

Rounded hedges add structure and elegance to a trimmed lawn (Source: iStock)

Beyond the obvious aesthetic appeal, well-maintained hedges are one of the smartest investments you can make in your property. They work around the clock to provide privacy, define boundaries, and create a year-round professional look.

Watering the hedge during dry periods or when the soil is sandy and regular trimming also prevents costly hedge replacement. This could also save you hours of weekend wrestling with overgrown branches. Trimming hedges also has many other benefits, including:

• Privacy and protection for your family
• Clear boundaries to prevent neighbor disputes
• Wildlife haven for birds and beneficial insects
• Healthier plant growth and disease prevention
• Enhanced kerb appeal and property value
• Design flexibility for formal or creative styles
• Reduced long-term maintenance costs

Get your hedges looking sharp with a Tasker

While major renovations can cost thousands and take months, professional hedge trimming delivers instant curb appeal for just $15 per foot. It’s one of those rare home improvements that pays for itself immediately, whether you’re prepping for a neighborhood barbecue or boosting resale value before listing.

Ready to give your property that polished, professional look without the weekend hassle? Post your hedge trimming task on Airtasker and connect with experienced landscapers in your area who can work on everything from basic maintenance to creative topiary work.