PHOENIX — Whether you prefer a real Christmas tree or an artificial one, a shortage in supply or a rise in price can be attributed to a major American event more than a decade ago. According to the American Association of Christmas Trees, when it comes to pricing across the country, a fake tree costs on average $104 and a real one averages about $78. However, a quality fake tree can last a decade, maybe longer. "We didn’t have a price increase, wholesale or retail, for 20 years.