How Much Does a Cord of Wood Cost?

Understanding the cost of a cord of wood is important for households preparing for colder seasons or recreational fires. Firewood prices fluctuate significantly, making it essential to comprehend standard measurements and pricing influences.

Understanding a Cord of Wood

A cord of wood is the standard unit of measurement in the United States and Canada, representing a specific volume of firewood. It is defined as a stack of wood measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. The wood is typically “racked and well stowed,” meaning pieces are aligned, parallel, touching, and compact. This measurement includes air spaces between logs, not just solid wood volume.

While a full cord is the official unit, firewood is often sold in smaller, less standardized quantities. Common variations include a “face cord” or “rick cord,” typically 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 16 inches deep, making it about one-third of a full cord. A half cord measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 4 feet (64 cubic feet), and a quarter cord is 32 cubic feet. Smaller bundles, often for recreational use, are also available but are significantly more expensive per cubic foot than bulk purchases.

Factors Influencing the Cost

The price of a cord of wood is influenced by several factors, including wood type, condition, and additional services like splitting, stacking, and delivery. These elements explain the wide range of prices observed in the market.

Wood species plays a substantial role in cost, with hardwoods generally more expensive than softwoods. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory burn longer and hotter, providing greater heat. Softwoods such as pine and spruce ignite more easily but burn faster and produce more smoke. Specialty hardwoods can command significantly higher prices.

Wood condition, whether “green” (freshly cut) or “seasoned” (dried), also impacts pricing. Seasoned wood is air-dried, typically six months to two years for hardwoods, to reduce moisture for a more efficient burn. Kiln-dried wood, an accelerated drying process, is more expensive due to lower moisture and higher production costs. Green wood is less expensive but requires significant drying time before efficient burning.

Labor-intensive services like splitting and stacking add to the cost. Many suppliers sell wood already split, but stacking at the delivery location often incurs an additional fee, typically $20 to $80 per cord. Delivery charges are common; some companies include local delivery, while others charge based on distance, often $2 to $3 per mile beyond 15 miles.

Geographic location significantly determines firewood cost. Prices are lower in densely wooded, rural areas with abundant supply. Urban areas or regions with limited local wood resources typically face higher prices due to increased transportation. Supply and demand dynamics also influence pricing, with prices often rising during peak demand seasons (fall and winter) and decreasing in spring and summer.

Where to Buy Firewood

Consumers have several options for purchasing firewood, each with varying levels of convenience, cost, and quality. The choice of vendor affects the final price and wood form.

• Local suppliers and tree services: These are common sources for bulk firewood, often offering competitive pricing for full cords. They typically provide split and seasoned wood, with delivery services available for an additional fee.
• Logging companies: They may offer raw logs or cords at wholesale prices, a cost-effective option for those willing to process wood themselves. Some specialize in bulk sales of dry-aged and seasoned firewood for pickup or delivery.
• Big box stores, grocery stores, and gas stations: For smaller quantities, these typically sell firewood in small bundles. While convenient, these bundles are considerably more expensive per cubic foot than purchasing a cord.
• Online marketplaces and classifieds: These connect buyers directly with local sellers, offering a range of prices and conditions. Buyers should inquire about the wood’s type, seasoning, and processing.
• Self-harvesting: From public lands, where permitted, this offers the lowest cost option, often requiring only a small permit fee ($10 to $25 per cord). This requires personal effort, equipment like chainsaws, and adherence to regulations regarding cutting dead and downed timber. Permits often specify the quantity allowed, such as 2 to 10 cords per household per season.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of a cord of seasoned, split hardwood typically falls between $275 and $400, often including delivery. Prices can range from $120 to $900, depending on the factors discussed. Premium hardwoods like oak or specialty woods can reach $400 to over $600 per full cord, especially during peak winter months.

Softwood cords generally cost less, ranging from $175 to $275 per full cord. Smaller quantities have specific price ranges: a half cord may cost $180 to $280, a face cord $120 to $200, and a quarter cord $100 to $180. Bundles, often less than one cubic foot, typically range from $5 to $10 each. Actual prices can vary significantly based on local market conditions and services included.