Homeowners typically pay a range for a cord of split firewood, influenced by wood type, season, distance, and delivery. The price range covers pickup versus delivery, seasoned versus green wood, and regional demand. The cost and price drivers below help buyers estimate budgets before purchasing.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cord of split firewood (delivered) | $120 | $275 | $520 | Seasoned hardwoods cost more; distance drives delivery fee |
| Cord of split firewood (pickup) | $90 | $180 | $330 | Lower price without delivery; volume remains the same |
| Cost per face cord (approx. 1/3 cord) | $60 | $120 | $240 | Useful for smaller spaces or partial-season use |
Overview Of Costs
Typical costs for a cord of split firewood range from roughly $120 to $520, depending on delivery, wood type, and moisture. Assumptions: region, species, and whether the wood is seasoned or green. The price you see will hinge on volume, distance, and whether stacking or racking is included in the sale.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding where the money goes helps buyers compare bids. The table below shows common cost components and how they contribute to a cord price.
| Category | Typical Range | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $80–$300 | Wood species and moisture level drive material cost | Hardwoods (oak, hickory) vs softwoods (pine) |
| Labor | $20–$60 | Labor for cutting, stacking, and loading | On-site prep and handling included |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0–$150 | Delivery charges or pickup savings | Distance and accessibility affect fee |
| Taxes | $0–$40 | Sales tax varies by state | Taxable in many jurisdictions |
| Contingency | $10–$60 | Buffer for minor breakage or extra logs | N/A |
What Drives Price
Wood type, moisture, and delivery distance are the primary price drivers. Seasoned hardwood typically costs more than green wood due to longer drying time and greater burn efficiency. The cord size is standardized, but many sellers price by delivery radius and whether they haul away debris after stacking. Seasonal demand (fall/winter) often raises posted prices, while off-season stock may lower them.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs reflect cutting, splitting, stacking, loading, and optional delivery. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> Typical labor rates range from $20 to $60 per hour per crew, depending on region and complexity. For a standard cord, expect 2–6 hours of labor for a small team, with longer times for uneven terrain, heavy logs, or additional services like racking. Efficient crews and bundled services can reduce per-unit labor costs.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to supply, climate, and distribution networks. Urban markets tend to be higher than rural ones, with suburban prices often in between. In the Northeast or Pacific Northwest, seasoned hardwood can push costs higher, while the Southeast may offer lower hardwood prices and more pine options. Expect regional deltas of roughly ±20–40% from a national average depending on species and accessibility.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes buyers might receive.
Basic: pickup pine, small quantity
Specs: 1/3 cord, unseasoned pine, rural area, self-pickup.
Labor: 1 hour, no delivery.
Totals: $90–$120; per cord $270–$360; delivery: $0.
Mid-Range: delivered mixed hardwood
Specs: 1 cord, seasoned hardwood mix, 25 miles distance, suburban area.
Labor: 2–4 hours included in delivery fee.
Totals: $260–$350; per cord $260–$350; delivery: $30–$90.
Premium: large cord, high-density hardwood, steep driveway
Specs: 1 cord, seasoned oak/hickory, urban market, extra stacking and debris removal.
Labor: 4–6 hours; strong regional demand.
Totals: $420–$520; per cord $420–$520; delivery: $80–$150.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Pricing By Region
Comparing three broad U.S. regions shows how prices diverge. In the Midwest, expect mid-range prices due to logging access and flat terrain. The West often adds transportation costs, while the South may have more affordable softwood options. Regional price differences can be ±15–40% from the national average.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can affect the final price. Surprises include: stacking services, log splitting accuracy, moisture testing, and dedicated delivery windows. Some sellers charge extra for long carries or for stacking logs indoors or under shelter. If a permit or local emission fee exists for large deliveries, budget accordingly. Always confirm what is included in a quoted cord price to avoid overpaying.
Cost Compared To Alternatives
Consider alternatives to a single cord. A 1/2 cord may satisfy limited heating needs at roughly half the price if you only burn a portion of the season. Kiln-dried or seasoned logs burn more efficiently, potentially reducing total fuel use. Buying in larger volumes can reduce per-cord costs through bulk pricing.
How To Save
Strategies to reduce costs without sacrificing quality include shopping early in the season, comparing multiple vendors, and choosing local, readily available species. Request quotes that itemize materials, labor, and delivery to spot overpriced line items. Consider pickup where feasible, or negotiating bundled services like stacking and debris removal to gain value on a delivered cord.