When winter chills roll in, firewood becomes as essential as warm blankets and hot cocoa. But if you’re shopping for wood, you’ve probably heard the term rick of firewood and wondered how much is a rick of firewood, exactly? Prices can vary widely depending on your region, the type of wood, and even the season. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about rick pricing, measurements, and how to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
What Is a Rick of Firewood?
A rick of firewood is a unit of stacked wood that measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but the depth can vary depending on how long each log is cut typically between 12 to 18 inches.
This variation in depth is what separates a rick from a cord of wood. A full cord measures 4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long (128 cubic feet of wood). In contrast, a rick (or face cord) is one-third of a full cord, usually around 42 to 48 cubic feet of wood.
Rick vs Cord of Firewood Comparison Table
| Measurement | Rick (Face Cord) | Full Cord |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 4 feet | 4 feet |
| Width | 8 feet | 8 feet |
| Depth | 16 inches (avg.) | 48 inches |
| Volume | ~42 cubic ft | 128 cubic ft |
| Typical Use | Residential fireplaces | Commercial/heavy heating |
Quick Tip: In many regions, rick and face cord are used interchangeably, though actual volume can vary by local standards.
How Much Is a Rick of Firewood in 2025?
The average cost of a rick of firewood in 2025 ranges from $75 to $200, depending on several factors like wood type, location, and season. Hardwood ricks like oak or hickory cost more than softwoods like pine or spruce because they burn hotter and longer.
Estimated Price by Wood Type
| Wood Type | Average Price per Rick | Heat Output (BTU) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | $120–$200 | High | Long burn, great for heating |
| Hickory | $150–$225 | Very High | Premium hardwood |
| Maple | $100–$170 | Medium-High | Clean burn, low smoke |
| Pine | $75–$120 | Medium | Cheaper, burns quickly |
| Birch | $90–$150 | Medium-High | Bright flames, easy to light |
Prices can also vary by region and availability:
Regional Price Guide (2025 Averages)
| Region | Average Price per Rick |
|---|---|
| Midwest (e.g., Ohio, Michigan) | $90–$130 |
| Northeast (e.g., New York, Maine) | $120–$180 |
| South (e.g., Texas, Georgia) | $75–$120 |
| West Coast (e.g., California, Oregon) | $130–$200 |
Pro Tip: Expect to pay more in winter months or during shortages, especially in colder northern states.
Key Factors That Affect Firewood Rick Prices
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for a rick of firewood:
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Type of Wood – Hardwoods like oak, ash, and hickory cost more because they produce more heat per log.
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Condition – Seasoned firewood (dried for at least 6–12 months) costs 20–30% more than green wood, but burns cleaner and hotter.
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Delivery & Stacking Fees – Many suppliers charge extra for delivery or stacking (around $25–$75).
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Location – Rural areas with abundant forests usually offer lower prices than cities.
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Season & Demand – Buying off-season (spring or summer) can save up to 40%.
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Cutting & Splitting Labor – Processed wood (cut, split, and stacked) is more expensive than uncut logs.
How to Measure a Rick of Firewood Correctly
Since the depth of a rick can vary, knowing how to measure your stack is essential to avoid being overcharged.
How to Measure Firewood Volume
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Measure height (usually 4 ft).
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Measure width (usually 8 ft).
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Measure depth (log length — typically 16 inches).
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Multiply the dimensions (HxWxD) to get cubic feet.
If your stack measures 4 ft × 8 ft × 16 in, you’ve got one-third of a full cord, or about 42 cubic feet.
Buyer Tip: Always confirm log length before purchasing. Unscrupulous sellers sometimes stack shorter logs to reduce total volume.
Best Types of Firewood for Heat and Value
Different woods produce different heat levels, smoke, and aroma. Choosing the right one can save you money in the long run.
Top Firewood Options by Performance
| Wood Type | Burn Time | Smoke Level | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | Long | Low | Heating, stoves, fireplaces |
| Hickory | Very Long | Low | Long-lasting fires |
| Maple | Medium | Medium | Moderate climates |
| Pine | Short | High | Quick fires, kindling |
| Cherry | Medium | Low | Pleasant aroma |
Hardwoods burn slower and hotter, while softwoods ignite faster but burn quickly. For long winter heating, hardwoods like oak and hickory are ideal.
How to Save Money When Buying a Rick of Firewood
Firewood doesn’t have to break the bank. Try these smart buying and storage tips:
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Buy in Summer: Prices drop when demand is low.
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Buy in Bulk: A full cord costs less per cubic foot than individual ricks.
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Source Locally: Avoid delivery costs by buying nearby.
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Season It Yourself: Buy green wood and let it dry; it’s up to 30% cheaper.
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Store Properly: Stack wood off the ground, cover the top (not sides), and allow airflow to prevent mold.
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Avoid Store Bundles: Retail stores charge $5–$7 per small bundle that’s nearly $300 per cord if you bought that way!
Where to Buy a Rick of Firewood Near You
Finding quality firewood depends on where you live. Reliable options include:
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Local Firewood Dealers: Search “firewood for sale near me.”
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Farmers or Loggers: Direct from source, often cheaper.
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Tree Removal Services: Many sell cut logs at reduced prices.
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Hardware Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace often sell by the bundle or rick.
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Online Marketplaces: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or regional delivery services.
Warning: Avoid sellers who don’t specify dimensions or type of wood always ask for exact measurements before paying.
FAQs About Rick of Firewood Prices
How many pieces of wood are in a rick?
A rick usually contains 275–325 pieces, depending on how tightly it’s stacked and the size of each log.
Is a rick enough for winter?
For mild climates, one to two ricks might last a season. In colder areas, homeowners often need four to six ricks.
What’s the difference between a rick, face cord, and full cord?
A rick or face cord is one-third of a full cord, measuring 4 ft high × 8 ft long × 16 in deep. A full cord has triple that depth.
How much does delivery usually cost?
Most suppliers charge $25–$75 for local delivery, depending on distance and stacking services.
Can I mix wood types in one rick?
Yes, many people combine hardwoods for heat and softwoods for kindling.
Final Thoughts: Is a Rick of Firewood Worth It?
A rick of firewood is a practical and affordable way to heat your home especially if you understand what you’re paying for. Prices in 2025 range from $75 to $200, but knowing the type, quality, and quantity ensures you get full value for your money.
If you burn wood regularly, consider investing in a full cord or buying green wood early in the year to save even more. The key is understanding measurements, wood types, and seasonal timing. With that knowledge, you’ll never overpay for a rick of firewood again.
Quick Summary Table
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Rick Price | $75–$200 |
| Size | 4 ft × 8 ft × 16 in (approx.) |
| Volume | ~42 cubic feet |
| Common Woods | Oak, Hickory, Pine, Maple |
| Cost Factors | Type, location, season, delivery |
| Money-Saving Tip | Buy offseason or in bulk |