SPECIES COMPARISON · WILMINGTON NC
Southern Magnolia 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.
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 →
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
Southern Magnolia
REMOVAL COST
High
HURRICANE RISK
Low
SHADE VALUE
Very High
MAINTENANCE
High
PROPERTY IMPACT
High
Water Oak
REMOVAL COST
High
HURRICANE RISK
High
SHADE VALUE
High
MAINTENANCE
High
PROPERTY IMPACT
Low
Cost Comparison
| Size | Southern Magnolia | Water Oak |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $380–$700 | $410–$770 |
| Medium (30–60 ft) | $700–$1,300 | $770–$1,420 |
| Large (60–80 ft) | $1,300–$2,050 | $1,420–$2,250 |
| Very Large | $2,050–$3,800+ | $2,250–$4,100+ |
| Trimming | $400–$1,000 | $420–$1,100 |
Ranges reflect Cape Fear regional pricing. Final cost depends on access, condition, and site factors.
Key Differences
- ·
Water Oak is more likely to fail in a storm.
- ·
Southern Magnolia provides more shade value.
- ·
Southern Magnolia tends to add more property value.
Which Should You Be More Concerned About?
Water Oak scores higher on hurricane risk. 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