Research reveals how proximity to trees affects property values and public attitudes toward urban trees

Consensus Summary

New research from the University of Technology Sydney reveals a paradox in how trees influence property values: while trees 10–20 meters from a home boost value by $30,000, those within 10 meters can slash it by up to $70,000 after accounting for other factors. The study aligns with expert observations that homeowners universally appreciate street trees for neighborhood aesthetics—like Sydney’s Ocean Street or Paddington’s tree-lined boulevards—but often reject them on private property due to concerns over maintenance, seasonal litter, or obstructed views. Environmental benefits, such as cooling urban areas by nearly 10 degrees and cutting cooling costs by 20–30%, are frequently overlooked despite data showing western Sydney suburbs like St Marys have increased tree coverage while areas like Liverpool have lost it, possibly due to development pressures. Experts like landscape architect Matt Cantwell and architect Adam Haddow highlight practical challenges, such as tree roots limiting pool placement or native species dropping debris, which outweigh the perceived risks for many residents. The findings underscore a tension between public appreciation of trees and private property preferences, with urban planners noting that strategic tree placement could mitigate both aesthetic and environmental trade-offs.