Cost guide
How Much Does Stump Grinding Cost?
Updated · Limbwright editorial
Short answer
Stump grinding in 2026 costs roughly $2 to $6 per inch of stump diameter, with minimum charges of about $80 to $160. Most single stumps come to $120 to $400, and each additional stump on the same visit adds about $30 to $60.
How a stump is measured for pricing
Measuring it yourself before you call gets you a more accurate phone estimate.
Measure at ground level
Not across the cut top. The stump flares outward at the soil line, and that is what the machine must grind.
Take the widest point
Include the root flare and any buttress roots that rise above the ground.
Note the height
A stump more than a few inches tall takes longer, or needs cutting down first.
Count surface roots
Roots running across the lawn are ground only if asked, and priced as extra.
Stump grinding cost by size
| Stump diameter | Per-inch math ($2 to $6) | Likely charge |
|---|---|---|
| Under 12 inches | Up to $72 | Minimum fee, about $80 to $160 |
| 12 to 24 inches | $24 to $144 | Minimum fee up to about $150 |
| 24 to 36 inches | $48 to $216 | About $120 to $250 |
| 36 to 48 inches | $72 to $288 | About $200 to $400 |
| Over 48 inches | $96 and up | Quoted individually |
Per-inch rates and minimums are national figures reported by HomeGuide and similar 2026 cost guides. Local stump pricing varies, and the grinding company quotes the real number.
What makes a stump cost more
- Hardwood
- Oak, hickory and other dense species grind slowly. Old dry hardwood is the slowest.
- Rocks and debris
- Stones around the base break cutter teeth. Rocky soil is priced accordingly.
- Access
- If only a small walk-behind grinder fits through the gate, the job takes longer.
- Depth
- Standard is 4 to 8 inches below grade. Deeper costs more.
- Chip removal
- Hauling the chips and bringing topsoil is an add-on.
- Root chasing
- Grinding surface roots across the lawn is usually charged by time.
Grinding cost versus full removal cost
Grinding
- About $120 to $400 for a typical stump
- Under an hour on site
- Minimal lawn damage
- Roots remain and decay
Full excavation
- Commonly several times the grinding price
- Needs an excavator and a dump truck
- Leaves a large hole to backfill and compact
- Required before building or paving on the spot
Pay for excavation only when something will be built there. Otherwise grinding does the job. The differences are explained under stump removal.
Renting a grinder yourself
Rental yards offer walk-behind stump grinders, typically for $100 to $200 or more a day plus a trailer or delivery. For several small stumps that can come out cheaper than hiring.
It rarely pays for one large stump. Rental machines are small, and a 30-inch oak stump can take most of a day with one. The machines throw debris hard, so eye, ear and leg protection are needed, and you still have to call 811 before grinding.
A fair comparison is rental, your day and the trailer against a professional's minimum charge. For one or two stumps the professional often wins.
Stump grinding cost questions
Is it cheaper to grind the stump when the tree is removed?
Usually. The crew and often the grinder are already on site, so there is no second trip charge. Ask for the stump as a separate line on the removal quote so you can compare.
Why did I get quoted a minimum fee for a tiny stump?
Loading, hauling and setting up the machine costs the same for any stump. The minimum covers that. Adding more stumps to the visit spreads it out.
Do old stumps cost less to grind?
Rotten stumps grind faster and may cost less. Old but sound hardwood stumps are dry and hard, and can take longer than fresh ones.
Are the wood chips hauled away?
Not by default. Standard practice is to rake them back into the hole. Removal and topsoil are optional extras.
This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice. Tree conditions, local rules and policy terms vary. Have a qualified arborist inspect the tree, and confirm regulations and coverage with your city and insurer.
Want someone to look at the tree?
Call to be connected with an independent tree service company in your area, or leave your number for a callback.
(888) 555-0142Call availability varies by area and time of day
Limbwright is a referral service. Your call or request goes to an independent tree service company that sets its own prices and schedule. Ask for proof of insurance and a written scope before work starts. How this works
Request a callback
Leave a number and a tree service provider in your area will call you.