Homeowners typically pay an hourly rate for leaf removal services, with prices driven by crew size, equipment, yard size, and access. This article breaks down cost per hour, shows where rates vary, and offers practical ways to control the price.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard debris load, normal access, residential yard cleanup.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate (per crew) | $25 | $45 | $75 | Typical for 1–2 workers; larger crews cost more per hour but may finish faster |
| Estimated hours for a 1/4-acre yard | 1.5 | 3–4 | 6 | Depends on leaf volume and obstacles |
| Per cubic yard disposal fee | $20 | $40 | $60 | Includes hauling and landfill charges |
| Equipment surcharge | $0 | $5 | $20 | For industrial vacuums or leaf blowers |
| Travel/setup minimum | $0 | $25 | $75 | Distance from contractor base |
Direct price by crew size and yard scope
Hourly pricing scales with crew size and yard scope. For a small yard with a single worker, the rate commonly falls around $25-$40 per hour. A two-person crew typically runs $40-$65 per hour, while a larger crew or machine-assisted cleanup can reach $60-$75 per hour. Assumptions: standard leaf volume, moderate access, residential zone.
Assumptions: Single- to two-person crew, typical suburban yard, standard raking and bagging used.
Main Drivers of Hourly Leaf Removal Prices
Key price drivers include yard size, leaf volume, and access. Yard size and debris load directly affect hours; steep slopes or tight gate openings raise time and costs. Regional labor rates also shift the hourly price.
| Driver | Impact on Price | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yard size (acres) | High | $20-$60/hr per 0.1 acre | Smaller yards cost less per hour; larger yards may require more crews |
| Leaf volume (bags or cubic yards) | Medium to High | $25-$75/hr | Heavy pileups increase time and disposal needs |
| Access and obstacles | Medium | $25-$70/hr | Tight gates, fences, and hardscapes slow work |
| Equipment used | Medium | $0-$20/hr | Vacuum-equipped crews cost more but finish faster |
| Region and labor market | High | $25-$75/hr | Coastal and urban areas trend higher |
Materials and gear that influence hourly rates
Equipment type and disposal methods shift the hourly price. A standard rake-and-bag approach runs lower hourly rates, while a leaf vacuum truck or chipper increases costs but may reduce total hours. Per-hour charges may include mulch or bag handling fees if bags are supplied by the contractor.
Assumptions: standard manual cleanup with optional vacuum assist.
Regional differences in hourly leaf removal pricing
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and disposal costs. In the Northeast and West Coast, hourly rates commonly fall in the $55-$75 range for mid-size yards, while the Midwest often ranges from $30-$55. Rural areas may sit around $25-$40 per hour. Regional disposal fees can add $10-$40 per hour equivalent if contractors haul away debris.
Assumptions: typical residential neighborhoods, standard local waste rules.
What a typical job looks like by yard size
Estimate for common yard sizes helps anchor hourly expectations. For a 0.25-acre lot with light leaf load, expect about 3-4 hours on a two-person crew at $40-$60 per hour. For a 0.5-acre yard with heavy piles, 5-6 hours at $45-$70 per hour may be typical.
Assumptions: seasonal leaf load; standard curbside bagging option.
Price breakdown by cost components
Costs split into major components show where money goes. The quote often allocates Materials, Labor, Equipment, and Disposal. Budgets may show a small Permits or Delivery line if a crew needs special access or bags. The following table reflects a representative breakdown for leaf removal per hour.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $25 | $40 | $70 | Worker hourly rate and crew size |
| Equipment | $0 | $10 | $20 | Blowers, vacuums, bags, vacuum truck |
| Disposal/Haul-away | $10 | $25 | $60 | Dump fees or landfill charges |
| Travel/Setup | $0 | $15 | $50 | Distance from contractor base and setup |
| Permits/Fees | $0 | $5 | $15 | Occasional local requirements |
How to lower leaf removal costs per hour
Choose scope and timing to reduce the hourly price. Bundle leaf cleanup with other yard tasks to share setup and travel, remove obstacles before the crew arrives, and prefer bagging leaves for easy hauling. Scheduling in weekdays during off-peak seasons can also shave per-hour rates. Compare quotes to spot hidden fees such as disposal surcharges or minimum charges.
Assumptions: homeowners opt for standard bag-and-tag disposal rather than bulk hauling.
Seasonal price shifts you should expect
Prices typically rise in peak leaf-fall months. October and November commonly show higher hourly rates due to demand and disposal constraints. Off-peak periods may see lower rates, shorter job durations, and more flexible scheduling. Expect regional variations where storms or unusual weather push work into shoulder seasons.
Assumptions: fall season with normal disposal access.