Half Cord Firewood Cost Guide 2026

The cost of a half cord of firewood varies by wood type, moisture content, and delivery. Buyers should expect price differences based on season, location, and how the wood is split and stacked. This guide outlines typical price ranges, cost components, and practical saving tips.

Item	Low	Average	High	Notes
Half Cord Price	$90	$180	$300	Depends on wood type, seasoning, and region
Delivery Fee	$20	$60	$150	Distance and accessibility affect cost
Wood Type Premium	$0	$50	$120	Hardwood vs softwood differences
Moisture Adjustment	$0	$20	$50	Green or fresh-cut wood costs more to dry
Seasonal Demand	$0	$15	$40	Winter peaks can raise price
Permits/Fees	$0	$0	$20	Rare, region-specific

Typical Cost Range

What buyers usually pay for a half cord of firewood depends on quality, distance, and season. Assumptions: region, hardwood vs softwood, seasoned vs green wood, delivery included or not.

In many U.S. markets, the price for a half cord typically falls in the $90–$300 range. Low scenarios reflect softwood, moderate moisture, and local pickup, while high scenarios reflect hardwood, well-seasoned wood, and delivery with access challenges. Per-unit equivalents often translate to roughly $0.70–$2.30 per cubic foot, depending on how the cord is cut and stacked.

Cost Breakdown

Table below shows major components and typical amounts for a half cord purchase. Columns include totals and per-unit values where relevant.

Component	Low	Average	High	Notes
Wood	$90	$180	$260	Softwood vs hardwood; seasoned vs green
Delivery/Transport	$20	$60	$150	Distance and terrain affect cost
Permits/Fees	$0	$0	$20	Region-specific
Tax	$0	$0	$0	Depends on local tax policy
Markup/Overhead	$0	$0	$20	Deal terms may include a processing fee
Delivery Time/Vehicle Type	$0	$0	$20	Truck size and routing impact cost

Pricing Variables

Wood type, moisture, and delivery details are the most common price drivers. Two niche-specific thresholds to watch:

• Wood type: hardwood (oak, maple) typically costs more than softwood (pine, fir) per half cord.
• Moisture level: green or unseasoned wood commands a premium to account for longer drying or reduced burn efficiency.

You may also see a per-delivery surcharge for remote addresses or narrow driveways, and a seasonality effect where winter demand nudges prices upward. data-formula=”delivery_cost + (wood_cost × moisture_factor)”>

Regional Price Differences

Prices for a half cord vary across regions due to supply, climate, and labor costs. Three typical patterns are:

• West/Northwest: higher hardwood availability can lift averages by 10–20% compared with national baselines.
• Midwest/South: cheaper softwoods and greater access to local suppliers often yield lower averages.
• Urban vs Rural: urban areas may add delivery and service fees, potentially raising the total by 20–40% relative to rural pickup.

Labor, Time & Delivery

Delivery timeframes and crew costs influence total spending. Times vary from same-day to a few days out, with fee schedules commonly tied to distance and vehicle size.

• Delivery window: standard window vs timed delivery; costs rise for same-day service.
• Crew requirements: most half-cord orders require minimal labor, but stacked delivery or guidance on stacking can incur extra fees.
• Vehicle type: a pickup truck vs a small-tractor trailer changes fuel and escort costs.

Assumptions: specific driver terms apply to each supplier; verify whether delivery is included in the stated price.

Other & Hidden Costs

Hidden charges can appear in some deals. Key potential items include:

• Stacking services or certified stacking equipment
• Additional fuel surcharges during peak seasons
• Environmental or disposal fees for old pallets or packaging

Always request a written quote that itemizes delivery, wood type, moisture, and any extras.

Real-World Pricing Examples

Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for a half cord, highlighting differences in wood quality, delivery, and season.

Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.