Most homeowners pay $130–$440 to grind out a tree stump, with averages around $250–$275. Contractors usually charge $2–$5 per inch of diameter with a minimum fee near $100, and full removal with roots costs about $175–$516 (Angi, LawnStarter and HomeGuide data, as of October 2026).
Updated October 8, 2026. Source: Angi + 2 more. National US estimates.
Most tree removal quotes leave the stump behind. Grinding it out clears space for lawn, a patio or replanting, stops suckers from sprouting and removes a tripping hazard and a home for insects.
This guide covers prices by stump size, grinding versus full removal, discounts for multiple stumps and the cleanup costs that follow. If the tree is still standing, start with our tree removal cost guide and ask for stump grinding as a line item in the same quote.
Average cost
Professional stump grinding prices, national averages as of October 2026:
| Scenario | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small stump (up to about 10 in.), easy access | $100–$150 | Usually the contractor's minimum fee |
| Medium stump (12–24 in.) | $130–$440 | Average job about $250–$275 |
| Large hardwood stump (over 30 in.) or full removal with roots | $300–$800 | Huge stumps and excavation cost the most |
Stump grinding cost by diameter
| Stump diameter | Typical cost (Angi) |
|---|---|
| 6 in. | $118–$130 |
| 12 in. | $124–$160 |
| 18 in. | $136–$190 |
| 24 in. | $148–$220 |
| Over 30 in. | $200–$417 (LawnStarter) |
Cost by method
| Method | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stump grinding | $131–$438 | Stump ground below grade; roots stay in the ground |
| Full stump removal (dug out) | $175–$516 | Roots pulled; ready for replanting |
| Huge stump grinding | $300–$800 | Very large or multiple-trunk stumps |
| Chemical rotting (pro-applied) | $100–$200 per stump | Takes months to a year |
| Root removal after grinding | $100–$200 per hour | For surface roots under lawns or patios |
Cost breakdown: materials, labor, permits and extras
Line-item estimate for grinding one 18–24 inch stump in an accessible backyard. Ranges are national, as of October 8, 2026.
| Cost item | Typical range | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Grinding (machine & operator) | $100–$300 | $2–$5 per diameter inch, $100 typical minimum |
| Hardwood surcharge | $0–$100 | Oak, maple and similar can add $50–$150 |
| Chip cleanup & haul-away | $0–$100 | $2–$4 per diameter inch if not included |
| Topsoil backfill | $0–$50 | $10–$50 per cubic yard to fill the hole |
| Access contingency | $0–$50 | Gates, slopes or tight spots add labor |
| Estimated total | $100–$600 | Before any discounts or rebates |
Grinding leaves a pile of wood chips; ask whether removing them is in the price.
What affects the price
- Stump diameter. Most pros charge $2–$5 per inch of diameter (up to $7 in high-cost areas), measured across the widest part. A 24 in. stump typically runs $148–$220.
- Species. Hardwoods such as oak, maple and walnut take longer to grind and can add $50–$150 per stump. Softwoods and rotting stumps go faster.
- Location. Stumps behind fences, on slopes or next to foundations, patios and buried utilities take more time. Difficult jobs can add about $50 per hour or a flat fee up to $200.
- Number of stumps. The first stump carries the setup cost; each additional one usually adds only $40–$75. Angi reports five stumps at about $260–$400 total.
- Grinding or full removal. Grinding ($131–$438) leaves roots in the ground. Full removal ($175–$516) pulls the root ball so you can replant in the same spot, and root removal after grinding runs $100–$200 per hour.
Ways to save
- Have the stump ground by the same crew that removes the tree; it's often cheaper as part of the job than as a separate visit.
- Group all your stumps into one appointment, since each additional stump typically costs only $40–$75.
- Schedule in winter, when Angi and LawnStarter report savings of up to 20%.
- Keep the wood chips as mulch instead of paying $2–$4 per inch for haul-away.
- Choose grinding over full removal unless you plan to replant or build in the exact spot.
How to get an accurate quote
Ask at least three tree or stump-grinding services for written quotes. Give each the same information:
- The number of stumps and the diameter of each at ground level, plus the species if known.
- Access details: gate width, slopes, and nearby fences, patios or buried lines (call 811 before any digging).
- Whether you want grinding or full removal, and how deep the grind should go.
- Ask whether chip removal, backfill and any required permit are included.
FAQ
Is stump grinding better than stump removal?
For most yards, yes. Grinding costs less ($131–$438 vs. $175–$516), disturbs less of the lawn and is faster. Full removal makes sense when you want to plant a new tree or build in the same spot.
How long does stump grinding take?
A simple stump typically takes about an hour; difficult or very large stumps take two to three hours. Multiple stumps are usually done in one visit.
Do I need a permit to remove a stump?
Usually not for grinding on private property, but some cities require one; LawnStarter and HomeGuide list stump-related permits at about $75–$450 where they apply. Always call 811 to locate buried utilities before grinding.
For the big picture, start with our complete tree removal cost guide.
Related cost guides
Sources
- Angi — Stump Grinding Cost [2026 Data] (updated Mar 17, 2026). Checked October 8, 2026.
- LawnStarter — Pricing Guide: How Much Does Stump Grinding Cost? (updated Oct 5, 2026). Checked October 8, 2026.
- HomeGuide — How Much Does Stump Removal Cost? (2026) (Dec 22, 2025). Checked October 8, 2026.
Prices are estimates and vary by location and provider. See our methodology and editorial policy. Browse all yard & pests cost guides.