How much is a cord of wood: What Exactly is a Cord of Wood?
This guide covers everything about how much is a cord of wood. For anyone looking to heat their home with wood, or simply enjoy a cozy fire pit on a cool evening, understanding the term “cord of wood” is paramount. As of May 2026, the standard definition remains consistent: a cord of wood is a unit of volume used to measure firewood. It’s typically defined as a neatly stacked pile of wood measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
This volume equates to 128 cubic feet of stacked wood. However, it’s crucial to remember that this includes air space between the logs. The actual volume of solid wood within a cord is significantly less, usually around 70-90 cubic feet, depending on how tightly the wood is stacked and the size of the logs. This distinction is vital when comparing prices from different suppliers.
How Much Does a Cord of Wood Cost in 2026?
The question of “how much is a cord of wood” in 2026 doesn’t have a single, simple answer. Prices fluctuate considerably based on a multitude of factors, including region, wood type, seasoning status, and delivery fees. However, as of May 2026, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $500 for a full cord of seasoned firewood in many parts of the United States.
Premium options, such as kiln-dried hardwood or wood delivered and stacked, can push the cost upwards, sometimes exceeding $700 or more per cord. Conversely, buying green (unseasoned) wood or opting for less dense species might bring the price down. Understanding these variables is key to making an informed purchase.
Key Takeaways
- A standard cord of wood is 128 cubic feet of stacked wood (4x4x8 feet), though actual wood volume is less due to air space.
- As of May 2026, a cord of seasoned firewood typically costs between $250 and $500, with variations by region and wood type.
- Kiln-dried wood and hardwood species are generally more expensive than green wood or softer species.
- Seasonal timing, supplier location, and additional services like delivery and stacking significantly impact the final cost of a cord of wood.
- The longevity of a cord of wood depends on usage frequency, appliance efficiency, and wood’s BTU output.
Factors That Shape Firewood Prices
Several key elements influence the final price you’ll pay for a cord of wood. While a 128 cubic foot stack is the standard measure, what goes into that stack and where it comes from dramatically affects its cost.
Regional Price Variations
The most significant factor influencing how much a cord of wood costs is your geographic location. In areas with abundant forests and a high supply of firewood, prices tend to be lower. Conversely, regions where firewood is scarce, or where transportation costs are high, will see higher prices. For instance, a cord of wood in the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast might be priced differently than in the Sun Belt.
According to data compiled in early 2026, prices can range by over $200 between different states for the same type of wood. This is why it’s essential to check local suppliers for the most accurate pricing in your specific area.
Wood Type and Quality (Species and Seasoning)
Not all wood burns the same, and this is reflected in the price. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are denser, burn longer, and produce more heat (higher BTU output) than softwoods like pine, fir, or poplar. Consequently, hardwoods typically command higher prices.
The seasoning of the wood is another critical quality factor. Green wood, freshly cut and containing high moisture content (over 50%), is cheaper but difficult to burn, produces less heat, and can lead to creosote buildup in chimneys. Seasoned wood, air-dried for at least six months to a year, has a moisture content below 20%, burns hotter, cleaner, and is more expensive. Kiln-dried wood, dried in a controlled oven environment, has the lowest moisture content (often below 15%), burns most efficiently, and is usually the most costly option. According to industry reports in 2026, kiln-dried hardwoods can cost 30-50% more than seasoned softwoods.
Delivery and Stacking Fees
Most firewood suppliers charge a fee for delivering the wood to your property. This fee often depends on the distance from their yard to your location. Some suppliers offer stacking services, where they will neatly arrange the cord of wood in your desired spot. This convenience comes at an additional cost, which can range from $50 to $150 or more per cord, depending on the complexity of the job and the supplier’s rates.
For example, a supplier might quote $350 for a cord of seasoned oak, plus a $75 delivery fee and another $100 for stacking. This brings the total cost to $525, illustrating how these ancillary services add up.
Seasonal Timing
Like many commodities, firewood prices can fluctuate with the seasons. Generally, the demand for firewood is highest during the late fall and winter months when people are actively using it for heating. Buying firewood in the spring or summer, when demand is lower, can often result in lower prices. Some suppliers offer discounts for early season purchases or bulk buys made during the off-peak months.
A common strategy for saving money is to purchase wood in the spring. As of May 2026, many suppliers are looking to clear inventory from the previous heating season, potentially offering 10-20% discounts compared to prices later in the year. This also gives the wood more time to season if it’s purchased green.
Beyond the Full Cord: Other Firewood Measurements
While the “full cord” is the standard, you may encounter other measurements that can cause confusion. It’s essential to clarify what you’re buying to avoid overpaying or receiving less wood than expected.
The Face Cord
A face cord, sometimes called a “rick,” is a less standardized measurement. It generally refers to a pile of wood that’s 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but only 16 to 24 inches deep. This means a face cord contains significantly less wood than a full cord – typically about one-third to one-half of a full cord’s volume.
If a seller offers a “cord” for a significantly lower price, it’s crucial to confirm if they mean a full cord or a face cord. A face cord might cost $100-$200, but you are getting far less wood. Always ask for clarification on dimensions and volume.
Other Units and Bulk Purchases
Some suppliers sell wood by the “pickup truck load” or “trailer load.” These are highly variable and depend entirely on the size of the truck bed or trailer and how the wood is loaded. Always ask for an estimate of the volume in cubic feet or a confirmation of how many full cords or face cords the load represents.
Buying in bulk, such as multiple cords at once, can sometimes lead to volume discounts. However, ensure you have adequate storage space and anticipate your needs accurately before committing to a large purchase.
How Long Does a Cord of Wood Last?
The lifespan of a cord of wood is highly dependent on how it’s used. Several factors determine how quickly you’ll go through your supply:
Usage Frequency and Intensity
Are you using the wood for primary home heating, supplemental heat, or occasional fires in a fireplace or fire pit? Heating a home consistently through a cold winter will consume wood much faster than using it for a few hours each weekend. A well-insulated home with an efficient wood stove might use one to two cords per season, while a drafty older home relying heavily on wood heat could require three to five cords or more.
As of May 2026, the average household using wood as a primary heat source in colder climates can expect to use approximately 2.5 to 3 cords per year. This figure can be higher or lower based on the severity of the winter and insulation levels.
Appliance Efficiency
The type and efficiency of your wood-burning appliance play a significant role. Modern EPA-certified wood stoves are designed to burn wood more completely and efficiently, extracting more heat and using less fuel than older, open fireplaces or inefficient stoves. An open fireplace can be as little as 10-15% efficient, meaning much of the heat goes up the chimney, while a high-efficiency wood stove can be 70-85% efficient.
Therefore, a cord of wood will last considerably longer when burned in an efficient appliance compared to an open hearth. This efficiency not only saves wood but also reduces emissions.
Wood Type and BTU Output
As mentioned earlier, different wood species have varying densities and energy content, often measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Denser hardwoods like oak, ash, and maple have a higher BTU output per cord than lighter softwoods like pine or cedar. This means a cord of oak will provide more heat and burn longer than a cord of pine, even if they are measured by the same volume.
Hardwoods are generally preferred for primary heating because of their superior longevity and heat output. A cord of oak might provide around 25-30 million BTUs, whereas a cord of pine might yield only 15-20 million BTUs.
Tips for Buying Firewood
Purchasing firewood can be straightforward if you approach it with a little knowledge. Here are some tips to ensure you get good quality wood at a fair price:
Verify Measurements
Always confirm the exact dimensions and volume you are buying. Ask if it’s a full cord (4x4x8 feet) or a face cord. If buying by volume estimate (like a “truckload”), ask for a cubic foot estimate. Reputable dealers will be transparent about their measurements.
Check Moisture Content
Seasoned wood should have a moisture content below 20%. You can often tell by looking for cracks at the ends of logs, a grayish color, and a lighter weight. Some dealers use moisture meters; ask to see the reading if possible. Avoid wood that looks freshly cut, has green bark, or smells damp.
Inspect Wood Quality
Look for clean, split logs free from excessive rot, mold, or insect infestation. Hardwoods generally offer a better burn for heating than softwoods, though softwoods can be useful for kindling or quick fires. Avoid wood that’s heavily covered in moss or fungus.
Compare Prices
Get quotes from several local firewood suppliers. Factor in delivery and stacking costs when comparing prices. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best if the wood quality or seasoning is poor.
Consider Kiln-Dried Wood
If you prioritize immediate burning, maximum efficiency, and minimal creosote, kiln-dried wood is an excellent (though more expensive) option. It’s guaranteed to be dry and pest-free. For those who plan ahead, buying green wood in the spring and letting it season over summer can be a cost-effective strategy.
Common Mistakes When Buying Firewood
Even with research, buyers can fall into common traps. Here are mistakes to actively avoid:
Buying an Unknown Volume
The most frequent mistake is not clarifying “cord” versus “face cord” or “rick.” This leads to paying more for less wood. Always ask for precise dimensions or cubic feet. For example, a seller advertising a “cord” for $150 might be selling a face cord, while a full cord of similar wood is $300.
Purchasing Green Wood for Immediate Use
Buying wood that’s still wet (green) and expecting it to burn well is a common error. Green wood is hard to ignite, smokes excessively, produces little heat, and contributes to dangerous creosote buildup in chimneys. If you need wood for immediate use, ensure it’s seasoned or kiln-dried. According to fireplace safety guidelines from organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as of 2026, burning unseasoned wood is a significant fire hazard.
Ignoring Delivery and Stacking Costs
Focusing solely on the per-cord price of the wood itself and forgetting to add in delivery and stacking fees can lead to sticker shock. These additional costs can add 25-50% or more to the base price of the wood. Always get a final quote that includes all services.
Storing Wood Improperly
Even properly seasoned wood can reabsorb moisture if stored incorrectly. Piling wood directly on the ground or against your house, or failing to provide airflow, can lead to rot and re-wetting. Ideal storage involves elevating wood off the ground, covering the top but leaving the sides open to allow for air circulation.
Expert Insights for Smart Firewood Buying
Drawing from experience in the field, here are some insights that go beyond basic definitions:
Buy in Bulk During the Off-Season
The smart consumer buys firewood in the spring or early summer. Demand is low, prices are typically lower, and you give the wood ample time to season properly if purchased green. This strategy requires storage space and planning but offers significant cost savings. For example, you might secure a cord of oak for $220 in May, whereas the same cord could be $350 by October.
Develop Relationships with Suppliers
Finding a reliable, reputable firewood supplier is invaluable. Building a relationship can lead to better pricing, priority delivery, and assurance of wood quality. Ask neighbors for recommendations, or look for suppliers who are members of professional organizations like the National Wood Fuel Association (NWFA), which promotes best practices in wood fuel production and distribution.
Understand BTU and Species for Your Needs
Don’t just buy the cheapest wood; buy the wood that best suits your heating needs. If you need long-lasting, high-heat fuel for primary heating, dense hardwoods are your best bet. If you need quick-burning wood for a backyard fire pit, softer woods can be more economical. A cord of dense hardwood will provide more burn time and heat than a cord of softwood, making it a better value for sustained heating despite its higher per-cord price.
Consider Local Sourcing for Pest Control
To prevent the spread of invasive forest pests, like the Emerald Ash Borer, it’s recommended to buy firewood locally sourced from within a 50-mile radius of where you plan to burn it. This is a practice strongly advocated by state agricultural and forestry departments across the U.S. as of 2026 to protect local ecosystems. Reputable dealers will often specify the origin of their wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard size of a cord of wood?
A standard full cord of wood measures 128 cubic feet when neatly stacked, typically in dimensions of 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
How much does a full cord of wood cost on average in 2026?
As of May 2026, the average cost for a cord of seasoned firewood ranges from $250 to $500, but this can vary significantly by region and wood type.
Is a face cord the same as a full cord?
No, a face cord is smaller than a full cord, usually being 4 feet high by 8 feet long but only 16-24 inches deep, containing significantly less wood volume.
What is the difference between seasoned and kiln-dried firewood?
Seasoned firewood has been air-dried for months to reduce moisture below 20%, while kiln-dried wood is dried in an oven to achieve even lower moisture levels (under 15%) for faster, cleaner burning.
Which type of wood burns the longest?
Dense hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory burn longer and produce more heat than softwoods like pine or fir, due to their higher density and BTU output.
When is the best time to buy firewood?
The best time to buy firewood is typically in the spring or summer when demand is lower, potentially leading to better prices and allowing more time for seasoning.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Firewood Purchase
Navigating the world of firewood pricing and measurement can seem complex, but by understanding the standard cord dimensions, the factors influencing cost, and the differences between wood types, you can make a confident purchase. As of May 2026, expect to spend between $250-$500 for a cord of quality seasoned wood, but always verify the measurements and condition of the wood before buying.
Actionable Takeaway: Always get a written quote specifying the dimensions (full cord vs. Face cord), wood type, seasoning status, and all associated fees (delivery, stacking) before agreeing to purchase firewood.
Last reviewed: May 2026. Information current as of publication; pricing and product details may change.
Editorial Note: This article was researched and written by the Day Spring Management editorial team. We fact-check our content and update it regularly. For questions or corrections, contact us. For readers asking “How much is a cord of wood”, the answer comes down to the specific factors covered above.
