In mid-March 2025, French consumers are focusing their attention on the price of a 30 cm stere of wood, a popular fuel for domestic heating. At this time of year, when the need for warmth in the home is imperative, the impact of the cost of wood on household budgets is becoming a matter of concern, prompting consumers to explore various strategies for optimizing their supply.
Prices per stere of wood are not uniform across France, and depend on a number of factors. The type of species is a key variable: oak, which is denser and has a higher calorific value, will sell at a higher price than species such as pine. In addition to species, logistics also play a crucial role. Transport costs, cutting and processing costs and even seasonal demand are all factors.
Consumers' purchasing strategies have not been left out. Some choose to buy their wood out of season to benefit from lower rates, while others prefer to buy in bulk to lower the price per stere. This reflects a desire to optimize spending on wood heating, particularly at a time of year when every euro saved counts.
Regional disparities also illustrate the influence of location on wood prices. A stere can be worth almost twice as much from one region to another, a fact that underlines the importance of proximity to resources in minimizing logistical costs.
In areas such as Auvergne or Vosges, close to forest massifs, the cost of a stere varies between €110 and €150 including tax. This proximity benefits the inhabitants of these regions. It significantly reduces transport costs, which in turn lowers the price paid by consumers. On the other hand, in urban areas, far from large forested areas, costs can rise due to greater distances and the additional expenses involved.
Faced with these disparities, consumers need to be flexible and creative to adapt to price variations. Maximizing local sourcing, anticipating needs ahead of the cold season and grouping purchases are just some of the steps recommended to optimize the value for money of firewood.
