Cost of a Cord of Firewood in the United States 2026

Prices for a standard cord of firewood vary widely by wood type, moisture, and delivery options. The main cost drivers are wood species, season, how much is stacked, and whether delivery or stacking is included. Understanding cost ranges helps buyers compare options and budget accurately.

Item	Low	Average	High	Notes
Hardwood cord, seasoned	180	320	600	Most common for heating; longer burn time
Softwood cord, seasoned	120	210	420	Typically cheaper but burns faster
Delivered cord (same town)	50	90	180	Includes transport; may require minimums
Stacked and ready-to-burn bundle	0	20	60	Assumes owners stack or accept pre-stacked

Overview Of Costs

Cost ranges reflect typical market variation across regions and seasons. A cord of firewood usually runs from about 180 to 600 dollars for a single cord of hardwood that is properly seasoned. Expect softwood to land about 120 to 420 dollars. If delivery is included, prices rise by roughly 50 to 180 dollars per cord, depending on distance and minimum order.

Cost Breakdown

Materials	Labor	Delivery	Permits	Taxes
Wood type and moisture level	Not always applicable	Often required	Generally none	Applied where applicable
Hardwood vs softwood	Minimal	Variable by distance	Flat vs mileage-based	State dependent
Seasoning time considerations	Indirect effect on price	Includes handling	Not typically separate	Incidental
Assumptions: 1 cord, average moisture	Estimated hours implied	Delivery within 20 miles	Compliance not major factor	Taxes vary by state

What Drives Price

Wood species and moisture content are the primary price levers. Seasoned hardwood commands higher prices than green or partially seasoned wood because it burns hotter and cleaner. Labor and delivery costs add further variation, especially for outlying ZIP codes or larger orders.

Prices also shift with supply and demand: winter demand, drought-affected harvests, and regional forest management can create spikes. For buyers evaluating options, consider the total delivered cost per cord and whether the seller provides stacking or kindling as part of the package.

Ways To Save

Shop regionally and compare delivered quotes. Buying in bulk within a season can reduce per-cord costs, especially if your property has easy access for trucks or requires minimal handling. Look for reputable sellers who provide stackable cords and clear moisture specs.

Consider alternatives such as split cord or mixed wood options to balance price and burn performance. If you have space, drying newly cut wood over a season can reduce future costs, though it delays availability.

Regional Price Differences

Prices vary by region due to forest access, transportation, and demand. In the Northeast, seasoned hardwood cords typically range from about 260 to 520 dollars, with delivery adding 60 to 150 dollars. The Midwest often sees 200 to 420 dollars for hardwood, with similar delivery spreads. The West may show a wider spread of 180 to 600 dollars, influenced by distance to mills and firewood markets.

Labor, Hours & Rates

Delivery and stacking labor can significantly affect total cost. If a seller charges by the mile, a 20-mile round trip may add 40 to 120 dollars. If the crew stacks and pre-splits wood, expect an extra 20 to 80 dollars per cord. Smaller, locally harvested bundles without delivery can reduce price by about 20 to 50 dollars per cord but require self-collection.

Real-World Pricing Examples

Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes with reasonable assumptions for location, wood type, and service level. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.

Assorted factors can push quotes up or down. Forest access, local labor costs, and whether the seller accepts trade discounts for recurring purchases all influence final pricing. Always request a written quote that cites species, moisture, cord measurements, and delivery terms.