What snow removal costs in 2026
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Driveway plowing or shoveling (up to 6 in) | $30 – $70 per visit |
| Steep or gravel driveway | $50 – $100+ per visit |
| Shoveling or snow blowing by the hour | $25 – $75 per worker |
| Sidewalk and walkway | $10 – $30 per visit |
| Salt spreading | $20 – $65 per application |
| Roof snow raking | $200 – $500 |
| Seasonal contract | $200 – $600 |
Most companies price a standard driveway per visit for up to about 6 inches of snow, then add roughly $30 for each additional 6 inches. Long driveways cost about $40 to $80 more per extra 100 ft, and steep, curved or gravel driveways take longer to clear and treat.
Per visit or a seasonal contract?
A seasonal contract covers the winter for one price, usually $200 to $600, often with a cap on the number of visits. To compare, divide the contract price by the per-visit price. A $450 contract against a $50 visit pays off after 9 visits. If your area usually gets more plowable storms than that, the contract is the better deal. Check what depth triggers a visit, how many visits are included, and whether salting is part of it. See seasonal snow removal contract vs per visit for a full comparison and a contract checklist.
| Contract price | At $40 per visit | At $60 per visit |
|---|---|---|
| $300 | Pays off after 8 visits | Pays off after 5 visits |
| $450 | Pays off after 12 visits | Pays off after 8 visits |
| $600 | Pays off after 15 visits | Pays off after 10 visits |
Snow plowing vs snow removal
Plowing pushes snow to the side of the driveway or yard. Removal loads it onto a truck and hauls it away, which needs more equipment and costs more, often $100 to $600 per visit. For most homes, plowing or blowing is enough. Ask where the snow will be piled before you sign.
Pricing tips for snow removal businesses
- Set a depth trigger, such as 2 inches, and price each extra 6 inches so a big storm doesn't wipe out your margin.
- Sell seasonal contracts in the fall. They give you guaranteed income and let you plan routes before the first storm.
- Quote salting separately unless it's in the contract, and charge it per application.
- Commercial lots are a different job. Parking lot plowing usually runs $50 to $150 per hour, and salting about $150 to $350 per acre.
Frequently asked questions
How much does snow removal cost?
Most homeowners pay $30 to $70 per visit to clear a standard driveway with up to 6 inches of snow, plus about $30 for each additional 6 inches. Seasonal contracts usually cost $200 to $600, and roof snow removal runs $200 to $500.
Is a seasonal snow removal contract worth it?
Divide the contract price by what you'd pay per visit. A $450 contract against $50 visits pays off after 9 visits, so it's worth it if your area usually gets more plowable storms than that. Check the visit cap and the depth that triggers a visit.
How much should I charge for snow plowing a driveway?
Residential driveways usually run $30 to $70 per push for up to 6 inches, $50 to $100 or more for steep or gravel driveways, about $30 more per additional 6 inches and $40 to $80 more per extra 100 ft. Shoveling and snow blowing by the hour is $25 to $75 per worker.
Does snow removal include salting?
Usually not. Salt spreading is typically an add-on at $20 to $65 per application for about 1,000 sq ft, though some seasonal contracts include it.
What is the difference between snow plowing and snow removal?
Plowing moves snow to another spot on your property. Snow removal hauls it away by truck, which costs more, often $100 to $600 per visit.
How much does it cost to remove snow from a roof?
Roof snow raking or removal usually costs $200 to $500. Large, steep or hard-to-reach roofs can run $1,000 to $2,000.
Related guides
- Seasonal snow removal contract vs per visit
- Holiday tipping guide: how much to tip your snow plow driver