Got an overgrown field, pasture, or wooded lot that needs clearing? Brush hogging is one of the most cost-effective ways to reclaim overgrown land. Here's what you can expect to pay in Greenville, Anderson, and the Upstate SC area in 2025.
AVERAGE BRUSH HOGGING RATES IN UPSTATE SC
For most brush hogging jobs in the Greenville and Upstate South Carolina area, pricing falls into these ranges:
- Light brush (grass, weeds, small saplings)$75 - $125/acre
- Medium brush (thick weeds, saplings up to 2")$125 - $200/acre
- Heavy brush (dense growth, saplings up to 4")$200 - $350/acre
- Minimum charge (less than 1 acre)$150 - $250
Most companies, including ours, have a minimum charge because of travel time and equipment setup. For small lots under an acre, expect a flat rate rather than per-acre pricing.
WHAT AFFECTS BRUSH HOGGING PRICES?
Several factors can push your price toward the higher or lower end of these ranges:
- Vegetation density: Thick, heavy brush takes longer to cut through
- Terrain: Hilly, rocky, or wet ground slows work and increases wear on equipment
- Obstacles: Stumps, rocks, fence posts, and debris require careful navigation
- Accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas or properties with poor access cost more
- Acreage: Larger properties typically get better per-acre rates
- Frequency: Regular maintenance customers often get discounted rates
PER ACRE VS. HOURLY RATES
Some operators charge by the hour instead of by the acre. In Upstate SC, hourly rates typically range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on equipment size and operator experience.
Which is better? For open, easy-to-mow land, per-acre pricing usually favors the customer. For rough terrain or land with lots of obstacles, hourly might be fairer for the operator. We prefer per-acre quotes because it gives you a firm price upfront.
BRUSH HOGGING VS. OTHER CLEARING METHODS
How does brush hogging compare to other land clearing options?
| Method | Cost Per Acre | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Brush Hogging | $75 - $350 | Overgrown fields, pastures, fence lines |
| Forestry Mulching | $500 - $2,000 | Small trees, heavy undergrowth |
| Full Land Clearing | $1,500 - $5,000+ | Building sites, removing all trees |
| Hand Clearing | $500 - $1,000 | Small areas, selective clearing |
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR BRUSH HOGGING?
In South Carolina, you can brush hog year-round, but certain times are better:
- Late fall/early winter: After the first frost kills vegetation, it's easier to cut and you can see obstacles better
- Late summer: Good for once-a-year maintenance before seeds drop
- Avoid: Wet periods when heavy equipment can damage soft ground
HOW TO GET THE BEST PRICE
- Get multiple quotes: Compare 2-3 estimates from local operators
- Clear a path: If possible, remove debris and mark hazards before the crew arrives
- Bundle with neighbors: If neighbors also need work, you might get a group discount
- Schedule off-peak: Late winter and early spring may offer better rates
- Set up regular maintenance: Annual or bi-annual customers often get preferred pricing
Get a Free Brush Hogging Quote
Nelson Stump & Land Clearing provides free, no-obligation estimates for brush hogging throughout Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Pickens, and Oconee counties. We'll assess your property and give you an honest, all-inclusive price.
Request Your Free QuoteBOTTOM LINE
For most properties in Upstate SC, expect to pay $100-$200 per acre for brush hogging, with a minimum charge of $150-$250 for small lots. The actual price depends on vegetation density, terrain, and accessibility. Getting a site visit and quote is the best way to know what your specific property will cost.
Ready to reclaim your overgrown land? Call us at (864) 760-9203 or request a quote online.