The Average Cost of a Cord of Wood Ranges from $150 to $400
A full cord of firewood (128 cubic feet, stacked 4x4x8 ft) typically costs $150-$400, depending on wood type, seasoning, and delivery. Hardwoods like oak or hickory cost more than softwoods like pine. Prices fluctuate based on demand, local supply, and whether the wood is split, seasoned, or green.
Key Factors Affecting Firewood Costs
- Wood Type: Hardwoods (oak, maple, ash) burn longer but cost 20-50% more than softwoods (pine, fir).
- Seasoning: Seasoned (dried 6-12 months) wood costs $30-$100 more than green (unseasoned) wood.
- Cutting/Splitting: Pre-split cords add $20-$80 to the price. Full logs (unsplit) are cheaper.
- Delivery Fees: Local pickup is free; delivery ranges from $20-$100 depending on distance.
- Seasonal Demand: Winter prices surge 10-30% due to higher demand.
Cost Comparison: Firewood by Type and Quantity
| Wood Type | Full Cord (128 ft³) | Half Cord (64 ft³) | Face Cord (42-48 ft³) | Burn Time (vs. Softwood) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood (Oak, Maple, Hickory) | $300-$400 | $180-$250 | $120-$180 | 2-3x longer |
| Mixed Hardwood/Softwood | $220-$300 | $140-$200 | $90-$150 | 1.5-2x longer |
| Softwood (Pine, Fir, Cedar) | $150-$250 | $100-$160 | $70-$120 | Burns faster |
How to Calculate If You're Getting a Full Cord
- Standard Cord: 4 ft high × 4 ft wide × 8 ft long (128 ft³).
- Face Cord: 4 ft high × 8 ft long × variable depth (usually 12-16 in). Not a full cord.
- Rick/Crank: Slang for a face cord; verify dimensions to avoid overpaying.
- Pro Tip: Stack the wood yourself to confirm volume. A full cord should fill a single-layer pickup truck bed (8 ft) piled 4 ft high.
Ways to Save Money on Firewood
- Buy in Bulk: Purchasing 2+ cords often reduces the per-cord price by 10-20%.
- Buy Green Wood: Cheaper upfront, but requires 6-12 months to season. Store in a dry, ventilated area.
- Split Your Own: Unsplitted cords cost $50-$100 less; rent a splitter (~$60/day) for large batches.
- Off-Season Purchases: Buy in late spring/early summer for the lowest prices.
- Check Local Classifieds: Private sellers often undercut commercial dealers by 15-30%.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Stacking Fees: Some sellers charge $10-$30 extra to stack wood at your location.
- Premium "Kiln-Dried" Wood: Marked up 50-100% for faster burning; rarely worth the cost for home use.
- Permits: Some areas require permits for large firewood deliveries ($10-$50).
- Storage: Tarps or sheds to keep wood dry add $50-$200 to long-term costs.