How Much Does Snow Removal Cost?

Highlights

• The typical cost range for snow removal is between $40 and $450, with an average cost of $200.
• Snow blowing costs depend on several factors, including the type of rates used by the contractor, the amount of snow, the size of the property, the location of the snow around the property, and the method used.
• There are several benefits of hiring out for snow removal, including injury prevention, convenience, efficiency, reduced time commitment, and better results.
• Although a homeowner may be capable of removing snow on their own, it can be a strenuous and potentially dangerous job; especially for those with long driveways or who have limited mobility.

Living in an area with cold and snowy winters means snow removal is a top priority. DIY snow and ice removal is backbreaking work, and many homeowners prefer to hire a local snowplow service or snow shoveling service. To save time and avoid injury, homeowners commonly search online for “snowplowing near me” or “local snowplowing service near me” to find a reputable company with budget-friendly snowplow rates. But how much can a homeowner expect to pay for snow removal?

According to Angi, snow removal costs range from $40 to $450, with the national average at $200. Hiring one of the best snow removal services to clear snow is worth it for many homeowners to avoid snow shoveling-related injuries and a possible trip to the emergency room.

Factors in Calculating Snow Removal Cost 

Before googling “snowplow service near me,” homeowners will want to be aware of the many factors that impact snow removal costs. Prices can differ from the national average due to rates and pricing, the amount of snow to be removed, property size, location, unique home features, the method of removal, and response time.

Pricing Formula

Snow removal companies use different snow removal pricing formulas to calculate their rates. The pricing depends on how much snow one person can remove, in addition to equipment and overhead costs. Typical pricing rates are:

• Per hour. It’s common for homeowners to pay between $25 and $75 per hour for snow removal via shoveling, snow blowing, or snow throwing.
• Per event. Each snowstorm is considered an event. Each event is typically priced between $30 and $75, although this pricing formula is commonly used in areas that don’t experience heavy snowfall totals.
• Per visit. Homeowners can expect to pay between $30 and $50 per visit or push by a plow—even if the area is cleared multiple times during one storm.
• Per inch. The average price to clear 6 inches of snow is between $60 and $95. It’s common for a snow removal company to charge another $30 per additional 6 inches of snow.
• Per season. Some companies will charge a seasonal rate of $350 to $450. Homeowners will want to check the fine print: There are usually limits on the total number of visits during the winter season.

Amount of Snowfall

Geographic location is an important factor in snow removal costs. Living in an area that sees heavy snowfall totals will result in more expensive removal costs than areas that get minimal snow totals. The average cost to remove 6 inches or fewer is between $60 and $95. Snowfall between 6 to 12 inches can cost around $110 per hour; between 12 to 18 inches runs approximately $140 per hour; and 18 inches or more can cost $170 per hour. The extra snow means that it takes more passes with a plow, which costs more in gas and time.

Property Size and Terrain

The larger the property, the more expensive the snow removal costs. Companies calculate the overall cost based on hourly rates, equipment used, and overhead. If the driveway is steep or winding, the cost will increase for snow removal. The price includes the time it takes to maneuver steep, curvy, or complex terrain. Expect to pay more if the driveway is gravel or dirt since it will take longer to clear than a paved one.

Snow Location

The average cost to plow a driveway 60 feet long and two cars wide is between $30 and $50. The price goes up if some sidewalks or walkways need to be cleared or there are any additional parking spaces or roofs that need snow removal.

Snow Removal Method

The method used to clear the area around a home depends on how much snow there is to be removed and the size of the area. The professional will choose the method that will work the best. Having someone come and shovel typically costs between $25 and $75 per hour per person. Homeowners can expect to pay the same rates to remove snow with a snow blower. Snowplowing runs between $30 and $95 per visit.

Response Time

The amount of response time that a snow removal company has will impact the final cost. Companies that guarantee a fast response time during or after a snowstorm may charge more than a company with a longer wait time. Homeowners will want to check if the company will come to their property automatically or if they will need to call and request snow removal services.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When budgeting for snow removal costs, it’s helpful for homeowners to know any additional price factors or considerations that can increase the overall cost. These can include things like contract and one-time services or salt applications.

Contract vs. One-Time Service

Seasonal contracts are typically more cost-effective than one-time snow removal visits. Contracts can cost between $350 and $450 per season, but homeowners will want to ask about any visit limits. Some companies may limit the number of visits and charge extra per each additional snow removal visit.

Salt Application

Snow removal companies typically charge between $20 and $40 for salt application. Some companies may include the price for salt in their overall total, and some may charge $5 to $15 per bag of salt. If a homeowner has pets that venture outdoors, they’ll want to make sure they ask about pet-friendly salt since some types can be toxic to animals.

Extra Services

Some snow removal companies sell or install heat mats or heating cables. These can minimize the amount of snow that has to be removed from a property by using heat to melt the snow. Portable snow melt mats can be as low as $60 for a short walkway or up to $2,500 for a driveway. Homeowners can also opt to pay heated driveway costs to have a system built into the concrete or asphalt, but this is a more extensive project that costs much more than a portable mat. Heating cables are typically used to melt snow on a roof, and the materials and installation cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500.

Snow Removal Cost by Type of Method

The cost of snow removal weighs heavily on the method used. Most residential customers will need snow blowing or shoveling services, and they may also opt for salt or sand application to help melt any ice. Those with larger properties or long driveways may prefer to opt for snow plowing, which typically has a slightly higher cost.

Salt or Sand Application

The average cost per visit to apply salt or sand to an icy surface is between $20 and $40. Salt helps to melt any ice under the snow and prevents snow melt from refreezing. Sand can help add traction to a snowy or icy surface, making it easier for residents to walk or drive off their property.

Snow Blowing or Shoveling

Snow blowing pr shoveling typically costs between $25 and $75 per hour. A snow removal contractor will come out with professional shovels or snow blowers and remove the snow from the home’s driveway and walkways. Although snow shoveling or blowing may be something a homeowner can tackle themselves, a professional can do the job much more efficiently, making this service well worth the cost for many people (especially those with limited mobility).

Snow Plowing

It costs around $30 to $95 per visit to plow snow. The snow removal service will need to send a vehicle equipped with a snow plow to remove the snow from the driveway and other surfaces. Smaller homes will likely not need a snow plow, but homes with long driveways may need to pay extra to have a snow removal service plow around their home.

Benefits of Choosing a Snow Removal Service

The buildup of snow and ice around a property can make getting around dangerous. To avoid the dangers of slipping, falling, back injuries, and even heart attacks, there are plenty of reasons for a homeowner to hire a professional to take care of the job for them.

Injury Prevention

Every year in the United States, more than 11,000 people are injured while clearing snow, and approximately 100 people die while shoveling, according to the National Safety Council. To prevent possible injuries, homeowners can hire a professional to remove the snow for them. For homeowners or family members over 55, shoveling is not recommended due to the increased risk of falls or heart attacks.

Convenience and Efficiency

When homeowners hire a snow removal company, they have peace of mind that snow will be cleared using the most efficient method. Professional companies have the correct snow removal equipment that homeowners may not have access to without spending hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Hiring professionals removes any worry or concern about homeowners removing snow on their own and will save time and a lot of effort.

Reduced Time Commitment 

Removing snow can sometimes take hours, especially if a home has a driveway or multiple walkways. If the homeowner doesn’t have the time to remove snow on their own, hiring a professional team to take care of it can free up their schedule.

Results

A professional snow removal team can provide exceptional results. Better snow removal means that the driveways and walkways are less slippery and less likely to ice over, making them safer for walking and driving.

Snow Removal: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

DIY snow removal is the most cost-effective option, minus the cost of a shovel, snow blower, or plow. But snow removal is labor-intensive and adds to the risk of injury. If a homeowner or their family members don’t have the physical ability to shovel or operate a snow blower, or if a doctor has advised against it, it’s best that they hire a professional.

Snow removal is rigorous work (even for homeowners implementing clever hacks for shoveling snow) and can send people to the hospital with back injuries or worse. Professional snow removal companies can save homeowners the time and effort of clearing snow in cold and windy conditions. They have the correct sidewalk snow removal equipment, plows to clear a driveway, and tools to clear a roof. If a homeowner is in good physical health and prefers to clear the snow on their own, investing in a quality snow blower or searching for snowplows for sale can help them save money in the long run. It’s always a good idea for a homeowner to call in a professional to clear snow from a roof to prevent falling, injury, and damage to the roof.

How to Save Money on Snow Removal Cost

Snow removal costs can be high, and the additional fees can quickly add up. One way for a homeowner to save money is to hire the cheapest snow removal company they can find, but there are other ways for homeowners to save without compromising on quality and the options they want.

• Get multiple quotes. It’s advisable for homeowners to get at least three quotes from reputable snow removal companies in their area.
• Prioritize. Homeowners will want to think about what areas really need to be cleared after a snowfall. The front sidewalk, driveway, and the walkway to the front door would be the most important areas. Other less-frequented areas, such as walkways behind the house, can be skipped in order to save money.
• Research snow removal companies. If a homeowner feels they need to supervise the team that comes to clear snow, the process will not free up time or relieve stress. By reading reviews and researching their options, homeowners can hire a company that will actually make their life easier.
• Consider contracts. A seasonal contract is typically more cost-effective than single-visit prices if a homeowner lives in an area with high snowfall averages. Some companies may offer discounts for customers who book a year-round contract that involves snow removal and lawn and garden care.
• Don’t wait. Waiting until the season’s first snowfall to contact a snow removal company may backfire. Professionals are typically booked up before the first snowflake falls, and some will raise their prices when they’re needed the most. Homeowners will want to contact a company before it snows to ensure snow removal services when they need them.

Questions to Ask About Snow Removal

Asking the right questions about snow removal costs can minimize miscommunication and save homeowners money. Here are some questions homeowners can ask a snow removal professional.

• Are you insured?
• Do you have a list of clients that will provide references?
• What services do you offer?
• Do you provide a discount on a seasonal contract?
• How large is your service area?
• What type of equipment do you use?
• What is your response time?
• How often do you plow during a snowstorm?
• Who will be my contact person?
• After plowing, do you remove the snow or pile it somewhere?
• How will your team protect the landscaping?
• What kind of salt or ice-melting products do you use?

FAQs

Deciding on snow removal while staying within a budget can be a daunting process. for homeowners Here are some frequently asked questions about snow removal costs to help guide homeowners in their decisions.

Q. How much is a snow blower?

The price of a snow blower can vary depending on the brand, whether it’s corded or cordless, electric or gas-powered, and if it has extra features, such as multiple speeds, easy turning, heated hand grips, power steering, airless tires, and more. Snow blowers can range from $100 to $2,300.

Q. What is the price of a snowplow and installation?

The overall cost of a snowplow is dependent on what type of vehicle it will be mounted on. If the plow is installed on a truck, expect to pay $4,000 or more; on a UTV, it can cost $800 or more; on an ATV, it can run $400 or more.

Q. What is the cheapest way to remove snow?

The cheapest way to remove snow is to buy a shovel for around $20 and remove it yourself. Still, the risk of injury is greater when shoveling snow on your own, and the cost of medical bills will be more expensive than hiring a professional to do it for you.

Q. How much does it cost to remove snow from a driveway? 

It usually costs between $30 and $50 to plow a driveway no longer than 60 feet. Some companies may include clearing the sidewalk along the street, but always ask to confirm what the plowing price includes.

Q. What should be in a snow removal contract? 

A snow removal contract should include insurance coverage, what services will be provided and the standard of performance, payment information, and how often the company will come to your home.

Q. Are landlords responsible for snow removal? 

That depends on where you live. In some locations, like New York, landlords are responsible, but both tenants and landlords should check state requirements and rental agreements before making any assumptions.

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Fixr, HomeGuide, A Nest With a Yard, Next Insurance