Christmas tree costs, like many other items, have climbed recently. You might be asking how to locate cheap Christmas trees. In fact, 8 out of 10 people say they’ll pick an alternative to a live tree, such as a reusable artificial one, according to the National Christmas Tree Association. Still, fake trees don’t always mimic the look (or scent) of a real tree, and lots of folks favor the authentic experience. Since it takes roughly eight to 10 years to grow a Christmas tree, expect to spend a decent sum on a standard specimen. Yet many prefer it to an artificial option for the joy of choosing it in person or visiting a festive tree farm. There’s plenty to weigh as you consider this sentimental and financial purchase. With that in mind, we’ll explain how much live Christmas trees cost, whether an artificial tree can save you cash, and practical ways to find cheap christmas trees no matter which type you choose.
How Much Do Real Christmas Trees Cost?
Christmas tree prices have steadily climbed in recent seasons. The main causes are supply chain disruptions, droughts and wildfires affecting large swaths of the Western U.S., and a shrinking number of tree farms nationwide.
Sources like Tree Towne note that Christmas trees can range from about $45 up to $800, depending on height and variety. Reader’s Digest reports prices continue to rise year over year, and the Real Christmas Tree Board found that 38% of shoppers expect to spend more on a tree in 2024 than they did in 2023. The American Christmas Tree Association anticipates roughly a 10% price bump compared with last year.
The Cost of Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees
The rising price of a traditional fresh Christmas tree could push you toward a faux option. Yet artificial trees can sometimes cost more up front than a real tree. For example, at big-box stores you might pay about $80 for a 5-foot fresh tree with delivery. Taller, unlit live trees often range from $100 to $200 or more. A budget artificial tree often starts a bit over $100, while trendier models in catalogs begin around $129. Small tabletop fiber-optic trees can run $50 or so. Simple math suggests that if a fake tree costs $200 and a fresh one $100, you’d recoup the difference by using the artificial tree for at least two years (and save more if you reuse it longer). Because many artificial trees last multiple seasons, they can be a better long-term financial choice. Ultimately it depends on your taste and how you want to allocate your holiday spending.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a Christmas Tree?
If you plan to buy an artificial tree, earlier is better. Artificial trees are often imported and stock can be limited, so shopping early gives you the best selection and deals. Many retailers place holiday goods on shelves by October, and you may spot discounted artificial trees with Thanksgiving sales. For steep discounts on a fresh tree, wait until a few days before Christmas when farms try to move remaining inventory — though that shortens how long you can enjoy your live tree. A good compromise is to shop for a real Christmas tree right before Thanksgiving. Expect premium prices from Black Friday through the week leading up to Christmas.
6 Ways to Get Cheap Christmas Trees
Planning your tree early can leave more cash in your wallet later. Here are six ways to cut the cost of a Christmas tree:
1. Buy From a Local Christmas Tree Farm
Much of the recent increase in fresh tree prices stems from higher operating and transportation costs. Buying directly from a nearby Christmas tree farm can reduce those expenses and get you a somewhat cheaper tree.
Not sure where to locate a local farm? Use realchristmastrees.org to find Christmas tree farms around the country.
2. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
Cutting your own tree is a beloved holiday ritual, and technically a wild tree could be free — but it’s not as simple as showing up and sawing. You’ll need a permit from the U.S. Forest Service or the relevant state or local agency before taking a tree from a national or state forest.
3. Order Your Tree Early
Many e-commerce options now let you order a fresh tree and choose a delivery date for the holidays. This convenience may cost a bit more than buying at your local lot, but it ensures you get the exact tree you want when you want it. Pre-ordering typically opens in early October, meaning you can check this off your list well before holiday chaos — just remember to add shipping to the total price.
4. Wait Until Later in the Season
If you’re not hosting big gatherings and don’t need the tree up for long, buying late in the season can save money. The week before Christmas, inventories shrink and prices may drop. Just inspect your selection to ensure it’s still fresh, especially if it’s been sitting on the lot for a while and beginning to shed needles.
5. Choose a Smaller or Different Variety of Christmas Tree
Don’t overlook the charm of a Charlie Brown–style tree. Spindly or oddly shaped trees are often discounted compared with fuller varieties. Look for species that meet your aesthetic but cost less per foot. If you don’t need a cathedral-ceiling-sized tree, opt for a shorter live tree or consider small pre-lit artificial options. Bigger isn’t always better.
6. Make Your Own DIY Christmas Tree
If a real or artificial tree isn’t in this year’s budget, don’t worry. You can craft attractive holiday centerpieces that mimic a tree using inexpensive household items like stacked books, balloons, branches, or even a cactus. Decorate your DIY creation with ornaments and a topper to create festive flair in any room.
How Long Do Real Christmas Trees Last?
If your festive mood starts after Halloween and runs through Christmas, here’s good news: a healthy, fresh tree should remain in good condition for about 5 to 6 weeks indoors if you care for it properly.
Experts recommend trimming the trunk when you buy the tree, making another fresh cut before setting it in the stand, using a stand that holds at least a gallon of water, keeping the tree away from vents and fireplaces, lowering the room temperature when possible, placing a humidifier nearby in dry climates, and watering daily. And be sure to take the tree down before it becomes overly dry and starts dropping excessive needles — a dried-out tree is a serious fire risk, and you don’t want to begin the new year dealing with insurance headaches.
