SPECIES COMPARISON · WILMINGTON NC
Live Oak vs Southern Magnolia: Cost, Risk & Removal Compared
How these two Cape Fear trees compare on removal cost, hurricane risk, and what they mean for your property.
Live Oak
Quercus virginiana
Family: Fagaceae
The defining shade tree of coastal Carolina — stunning, centuries-old, and the most expensive tree in the region to remove.
Full Live Oak guide →
Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora
Family: Magnoliaceae
Year-round beauty, year-round maintenance — the classic Southern shade tree that defines the character of Wilmington's historic neighborhoods.
Full Southern Magnolia guide →TREE INTELLIGENCE SNAPSHOT
Live Oak
REMOVAL COST
Very High
HURRICANE RISK
Low
SHADE VALUE
Very High
MAINTENANCE
Moderate
PROPERTY IMPACT
Very High
Southern Magnolia
REMOVAL COST
High
HURRICANE RISK
Low
SHADE VALUE
Very High
MAINTENANCE
High
PROPERTY IMPACT
High
Cost Comparison
| Size | Live Oak | Southern Magnolia |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $480–$900 | $380–$700 |
| Medium (30–60 ft) | $900–$1,650 | $700–$1,300 |
| Large (60–80 ft) | $1,650–$2,600 | $1,300–$2,050 |
| Very Large | $2,600–$4,800+ | $2,050–$3,800+ |
| Trimming | $500–$1,400 | $400–$1,000 |
Ranges reflect Cape Fear regional pricing. Final cost depends on access, condition, and site factors.
Key Differences
- ·
Live Oak typically costs more to remove.
- ·
Southern Magnolia demands more ongoing maintenance.
- ·
Live Oak tends to add more property value.
Which Should You Be More Concerned About?
Southern Magnolia demands more ongoing maintenance. The right call depends on your specific tree's condition, size, and location — upload a photo for an assessment.
Upload a photo for a free assessment →Estimate Your Tree Removal
Estimated Range
$950 – $1,200
Estimated range for Tree Removal · medium tree · Wilmington
Confidence: High · Based on Cape Fear market data
Estimate based on Cape Fear regional pricing data. Final cost confirmed after provider assessment.
Want an estimate based on YOUR actual tree? Upload a photo →
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Upload a Photo →Ramon and Miguel · 90 five-star Google reviews · Wilmington, NC