How Much Does Snow Removal Cost?
$30 – $70 cost per hour or per visit
$200 – $600 total cost per season
$200 – $600 total cost per season
Snow removal prices for a driveway and sidewalk are $30 to $70 per storm while raking a roof costs $200 to $500 on average. Snow plowing contractors charge $25 to $75 per hour for shoveling, blowing, or plowing. Snow removal contract prices are $200 to $600 per season on average. Get free estimates from snow removal services near you or view our cost guide below.
Snow Removal Prices
The average cost of residential snow removal is $30 to $100 for up to 6" and $30 per additional 6". Snow plowers charge $25 to $75 per hour, with contract prices at $200 to $600 per season. Commercial snow plowing rates are $50 to $200 per hour for parking lots and $150 to $350 per acre for salting.
Snow Removal Pricing Calculator
Contractors charge using various snow removal pricing formulas depending on the job size, season length, amount of expected snowfall for the year, depth of snow, and the estimated time to complete the job. Prices are typically derived from hourly rates instead of charging per square foot.
| Unit | Average Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Per Hour | $25 – $75 | Typically charged for shoveling, blowing, or throwing. |
| Per Visit | $30 – $70 | Each time an area is cleared with no additional services. |
| Per Event | $30 – $100 | Charged per storm, in areas with short periods or light snowfall. |
| Per Season | $200 – $600 | Coverage for the entire season, with an upward limit on visits. |
| Per Month | $100 – $300 | Sometimes charged in areas with short periods or light snowfall. |
| Per Inch | $60 – $100 | For the first 4 to 6 inches of snow; Add $3 to $10 per each additional inch. |
DIY snow shoveling is a labor-intensive hassle and poses a risk for injury. Hiring a snow removal service saves you time, is much safer, and is cheaper than renting tools for every snowstorm.
| National Average Cost | $81 |
| Minimum Cost | $25 |
| Maximum Cost | $2,000 |
| Average Range | $44 to $128 |
Table of Contents
- Snow Removal Prices
- Snow Removal Service Cost
- Snow Removal Rates By Location
- How Much Do Pros Charge For Snow Removal?
- DIY Snow Removal Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hiring A Snow Removal Service
- Snow Removal Near Me
Snow Removal Service Cost
Most snow removal services charge $25 to $75 per hour or between $200 to $600 per season, depending on the location and size of the area to clear. Contractors calculate how much to charge based on hourly rates to operate, equipment, and overhead.
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Shoveling | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Blowing | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Plowing | $30 – $100 per visit |
| Roof Raking | $200 – $500 per visit |
| Salt Spreading | $20 – $65 per application |
| Commercial | $50 – $150 per hour |
Snow removal companies may use a combination of methods to clear your driveway and sidewalk depending on the depth of snow and size of the area. Ask upfront what equipment will be used and where the snow will be moved to on your property.
Snow Plowing Rates
Snow plowing rates are $30 to $70 per visit on average or between $200 and $600 for a seasonal contract with a limited number of visits. Plowing an average driveway under 70' ranges from $30 to $50 on average.
Snow Blowing Estimates
A snow blowing service charges $25 to $75 per hour per worker, which is the same as shoveling. Homeowners can expect to spend between $40 and $75 per visit, depending on the size of the area and depth of the snow.
Snow Shoveling Charges
Professionals charge $25 to $75 per hour per worker for shoveling snow depending on the size and type of area to be cleared. Homeowners should expect to pay $30 to $70 per visit for snow shoveling the average driveway.
Snow Salt Spreading Rates
Snow salt spreading rates are $20 to $65 per application of 1,000-square-feet depending on the amount of salt used. Some companies charge $5 to $15 per bag of salt spread. Spreading salt leads to melting and prevents snow or rain from being able to freeze.
Cost To Salt A Parking Lot
The average cost to salt a parking lot is $2 to $3 per 1,000 square feet on small jobs or $150 to $350 per acre, which uses 500 to 1000 lbs. of salt. Bulk snow salt costs $100 to $200 per ton depending on the availability.
Snow Removal Rates By Location
Snow removal rates average between $25 and $75 per hour depending on the location and the amount of snowfall. A sidewalk and driveway plowing combo costs $30 to $100 per visit, while roof snow removal costs $200 to $500 on average.
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Sidewalk | $25 – $75 per hour |
| Driveway | $30 – $70 per visit |
| Roof | $200 – $500 per visit |
| Parking Lot | $50 – $200 per hour |
Average Cost To Remove Snow From Driveway
Snow plowing a driveway costs $30 to $70 per visit on average. The average price to snowblow a steep or gravel driveway costs $50 to $100 or more. Driveway snow removal sometimes includes the sidewalk and costs depend on the length, condition, slope, design, and material of the driveway.
| Type | Average Cost Per Storm |
|---|---|
| Standard Driveway (up to 90') | $30 – $70 |
| Steep or Gravel Driveway | $50 – $100+ |
Plowing costs less than snow hauling or removal. Be sure to discuss with your company where the snow will be piled up, or if it will be removed.
Heated Driveways & Mats Cost
A heated driveway costs $12 to $25 per square foot depending on if you need to demolish an existing driveway to install the heating system. Portable snow-melt mats cost $60 to $400 for a small walkway size and between $700 and $2,500 to cover a driveway.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Walkway Mat | $60 – $400 |
| Driveway Mat | $700 – $2,500 |
| Heated Driveway | $12 – $25 per square foot |
Heated mats can be embedded in concrete or put down before snowfall. For heated driveways, cables are built into the concrete that are controlled manually or through an automatic system. Electricity costs to heat two tire tracks are $0.44 per hour up to $2.00 per hour for full two-car coverage.
Heated driveways often come with a 10-year warranty, making them more efficient than snow blowers over time.
Roof Snow Removal Cost
Roof snow removal costs $200 to $500 on average or between $50 and $100 per hour depending on the size and the amount of snow and ice. For larger homes with difficult roof access, contractors charge $1,000 to $2,000.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard | $200 – $500 |
| Large or Steep | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Clearing the snow off your roof prevents damage and is only necessary with heavy or prolonged snowfall. Professionals recommend clearing the snow off for every six inches that accumulates.
Cost To Install Roof Heating Cables
Roof heating cable systems costs $5 to $15 per linear foot, with most homeowners spending $500 to $1,500 for both materials and installation. Heated cables melt the snow, prevent ice dams, and replaces the need to hire a contractor each year.
Snow Plowing Rates For Parking Lots
Snow plowing rates for commercial parking lots are $50 to $150 per hour, while snow removal prices run $80 to $200 per hour. Rates include salting and sanding and depend on the location and size of the parking lot.
Placing snow markers or reflectors helps the professional gauge the parking lot and complete the job faster. Also, getting a seasonal contract for snow hauling is more cost-effective.
Sidewalk Snow Shoveling Charges
Residential sidewalk snow shoveling and blowing costs $25 to $75 per hour on average. Many states have regulations requiring public sidewalks to be cleared of snow within a specific time frame, or you could be fined. Some Homeowners' Associations include all or part of the plowing costs in HOA dues.
How Much Do Pros Charge For Snow Removal?
When determining how much to charge, professionals use the following snow removal pricing guide.
Snow Removal Pricing Guide
Snow removal services typically charge on a per hour, event, or inch basis depending on the size of the property and if it's residential or commercial. All pricing is calculated from labor costs per hour per person, plus equipment, overhead, and profit.
- Snow removal vs. plowing
- One time vs. contract
- Residential vs. commercial
- Type of equipment used
- Number of workers and estimated time required
- Additional services such as salt spreading
- Insurance, overhead, and profit
Snow Removal vs. Snow Plowing
Snow plowing moves snow from the driveway to another part of the property. The addition of snow removal includes loading the snow onto trucks and hauling it away. Removal requires extra equipment and labor, which increases the overall costs. Be sure your contract clearly states if removal is included.
| Removal | Plowing | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
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Snow Removal Contract Prices
Seasonal snow removal contract prices are $200 to $600 on average, depending on the property size. Contracts typically have an upward limit of visits with extra costs for additional clearings. Ask about discounts for multi-year contracts, or if unused visits can be turned in for lawn care.
Residential vs. Commercial Snow Removal Pricing
Residential snow removal costs about half that of commercial. Commercial snow plowing prices are higher due to needing multiple contractors, more equipment, salting and sanding, and clearing larger areas like parking lots. Contractors may need to visit the property multiple times during a snowstorm to keep the business operational.
| Frequency | Residential | Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Per Hour | $25 – $75 | $50 – $200 |
| Per Visit | $30 – $100 | $60 – $150+ |
Driveway Size & Design
The size and design of your driveway impact the overall removal costs. Extra-long driveways cost an extra $40 to $80 per each additional 100' of clearing. Removing snow from steep, curvy, dirt, or gravel driveways costs more and takes longer to clear and de-ice.
Other Conditions
- Response time is critical, especially after a significant storm, and contractors typically have a waiting list. Some states have regulations to clear snow within a specific time frame; else, you can face fines. Ask contractors their average response time upfront.
- In locations with little snowfall, service providers typically charge more. For areas with regular snowfall, contracts are usually based on average total snowfall expected for the year.
DIY Snow Removal Costs
DIY snow removal is relatively inexpensive, but it's labor-intensive and poses a risk for injury. Purchasing or renting equipment will be your largest expense. The type of tools needed depends on the average amount of snow in your area and how often you'll clear your driveway and sidewalk.
Even if you plan on shoveling the snow yourself, it's smart to have a snow removal contractor on call. Don't wait until it snows; companies tend to get booked up quickly during heavy storms.
DIY Snow Removal Tools
| Equipment | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Shovel | $15 – $40 |
| Electric Shovel | $60 – $200 |
| Snow Pusher | $30 – $150 |
| Snow Broom | $10 – $30 |
| Ice Chopper | $15 – $30 |
| Roof Rake | $25 – $80 |
| Roof Rake Extensions | $6 – $17 |
| Roof Heat Cables | $25 – $250 |
| Roof Fence Brackets (kit) | $25 – $90 |
| Roof Snow Guards (kit) | $50 – $400 |
| Driveway Marker | $20 – $50 |
| Snow Salt (per bag) | $10 – $30 |
| Heat Mats – Small | $60 – $400 |
| Heat Mats – Large | $600 – $2,000 |
| Heated Driveways (per square foot) | $12 – $25 |
| Salt Spreaders | $150 – $300 |
| Salt Storage | $40 – $100 |
| De-icer (per lb.) | $0.40 – $3 |
DIY Snow Plow Rental
The average cost of renting a snow plow for a truck is $650 per month, while an ATV or UTV plow rents for $150 a month. Another option for contractors or large properties is renting a skid steer for $700 to $1,500 per month on average.
| Vehicle | Daily | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATV or UTV Plow | $20 | $60 | $150 |
| Truck or SUV Plow | $60 | $220 | $650 |
| Skid Steer w/ Cab & Bucket Plow | -- | -- | $700 – $1,500 |
*Plowing places stress on your vehicles, which can lead to costly repairs.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Snow?
Slow removal is a strenuous endeavor. While there isn't one right way to remove snow, there are a few things that will make it easier.
- Get the right equipment for the amount of snowfall in your area.
- Spreading salt before expected snowfall helps make the process easier.
- Put driveway markers down.
- Plan to shovel in stages and remove the snow every two to five inches.
- Avoid stepping on and packing down the snow.
- Clear snow from around the cars and tires first.
- Avoid leaving snowbanks at the edges of walkways or driveways.
- Have a snow removal service on call for heavy snow events or times when you are unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Snow Removal Service Worth It?
Hiring a snow removal service is worth in areas with a lot of snowfall. DIY snow removal is possible in locations with light or infrequent snowfall, and if you are physically up to the task. Always have a snow removal contractor on call for when heavy storms hit or when you are unable to shovel it yourself.
How Much Is A Snow Blower?
A gas-powered snow blower costs $400 to $1,200 to buy or around $75 per day to rent. Electric snow blower or thrower prices are $100 to $250 on average and are excellent for flat driveways or snow coverage of 4 inches or less. Additional costs apply for ongoing operations and maintenance.
| Power Source | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | $100 – $250 |
|
| Gas | $400 – $1,200 |
|
How Much Does A Snow Plow Cost?
The average cost to buy a snow plow attachment for a truck is $1,000 to $2,500. Snowplow kits for ATVs and UTVs cost $200 to $800 on average. Additional costs apply for installation and mounting, operational costs such as gas, and ongoing maintenance. Plus, using a plow requires some experience.
| Vehicle Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| ATV or UTV | $200 – $800 |
| Truck or SUV | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Can You Snow Plow a Gravel Driveway?
Plowing gravel driveways and surfaces requires putting shoes on the plow and adjusting the blade to a half-inch above the ground. This prevents digging into and damaging the gravel in most cases. Before plowing, be sure to resurface your gravel driveway to fix wheel ruts, potholes, and tilted sections.
What Is The Best Snow Removal Equipment?
The best snow removal equipment depends on the size of your driveway and the amount of snowfall. Snow plows are recommended for long driveways, while a snow blower is best for short driveways or sidewalks. In places with heavy snowfall, roof heating cables are the best way to remove snow.
What is the Cheapest Way to Remove Snow?
Buying a snow shovel for about $20 and manually removing the snow all season is the cheapest way. However, shoveling snow by hand is time-consuming and can lead to injuries. The next cheapest way to remove snow is by renting a plow or blower, followed by hiring a professional.
How Much Does Snow Removal Insurance Cost?
Snow removal insurance costs $29 to $40 per month for residential homeowners. General liability insurance for a snow plow business costs $400 to $1,000 per year, plus $900 a year for a commercial auto policy and $400 annually for a business owner's policy.
Hiring A Snow Removal Contractor
There are over 10,000 snow removal related injuries each year. Hiring a professional contractor saves you time, is much safer, and is cheaper than renting tools over and over. Be sure to:
- Get at least 3 competing quotes.
- Read their reviews on HomeGuide, BBB, and Google and look for reliability.
- Check for licensing and insurance.
- Never wait until it snows. Sign your contract during the summertime to save.
- Book a year-round contract for both lawn care and snow removal to save.
- Ask your neighbors what they are paying, so you know what to expect.
Questions To Ask
- What snow removal services do you offer? (Plowing, Blowing, or Salting)
- Do you have insurance?
- How long have you been in business?
- What is your average response time? Do I have to call each time?
- Do you offer lawn care services or package deals?
- What type of contracts do you offer? (Seasonal, Per event, Hourly)
- Can my unused snow removal visits be turned in for lawn care?
Get free estimates on HomeGuide from trusted snow removal contractors:
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20+ Snow Removal Services in Mountain View, CA
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