SPECIES COMPARISON · WILMINGTON NC
Longleaf Pine vs Water Oak: Cost, Risk & Removal Compared
How these two Cape Fear trees compare on removal cost, hurricane risk, and what they mean for your property.
Longleaf Pine
Pinus palustris
Family: Pinaceae
The most wind-resilient pine in the Southeast — a slow-growing coastal native that rewards patience with structural strength few trees match.
Full Longleaf Pine guide →
Water Oak
Quercus nigra
Family: Fagaceae
A fast-growing shade provider that quietly becomes one of the most structurally dangerous trees in a Wilmington yard at maturity.
Full Water Oak guide →TREE INTELLIGENCE SNAPSHOT
Longleaf Pine
REMOVAL COST
Moderate
HURRICANE RISK
Very Low
SHADE VALUE
Low
MAINTENANCE
Low
PROPERTY IMPACT
High
Water Oak
REMOVAL COST
High
HURRICANE RISK
High
SHADE VALUE
High
MAINTENANCE
High
PROPERTY IMPACT
Low
Cost Comparison
| Size | Longleaf Pine | Water Oak |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $375–$695 | $410–$770 |
| Medium (30–60 ft) | $695–$1,285 | $770–$1,420 |
| Large (60–80 ft) | $1,285–$2,030 | $1,420–$2,250 |
| Very Large | $2,030–$3,750+ | $2,250–$4,100+ |
| Trimming | $375–$960 | $420–$1,100 |
Ranges reflect Cape Fear regional pricing. Final cost depends on access, condition, and site factors.
Key Differences
- ·
Water Oak typically costs more to remove.
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Water Oak is more likely to fail in a storm.
- ·
Water Oak provides more shade value.
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Water Oak demands more ongoing maintenance.
- ·
Longleaf Pine tends to add more property value.
Which Should You Be More Concerned About?
Water Oak scores higher on both hurricane risk and ongoing maintenance demands in the Cape Fear market. 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.
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Upload a Photo →Ramon and Miguel · 90 five-star Google reviews · Wilmington, NC