A stump camped out in the middle of your yard can turn valuable space into an eyesore. The average cost of tree stump grinding ranges from $120 to $210, but prices can vary depending on a few factors.
You can expect to pay as little as $15 for a small, 6-inch stump (plus minimum fees) and as much as $395 for a 72-inch diameter stump. The complexity of the job, tree type, and permits are among the variables that may affect your final cost.
This guide gathers data from big and small cities across the U.S., so you can estimate how much professionally grinding a stump will cost in your area.
Cost by location
The cost of stump grinding varies depending on your location and the local market conditions. In general, tree care services are more expensive in urban areas than in rural areas due to the increased cost of living.
| City | Average cost per stump (including labor and materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Portland, ME | $121 – $215 |
| Boston, MA | $132 – $240 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Orlando, FL | $114 – $198 |
| Atlanta, GA | $116 – $202 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Detroit, MI | $121 – $215 |
| Madison, WI | $123 – $219 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Missoula, MT | $117 – $205 |
| Boise, ID | $120 – $212 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Phoenix, AZ | $117 – $205 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $117 – $207 |
| Las Vegas, NV | $124 – 220 |
Although the national average cost of stump grinding is $120 to $210, you may find that prices in your area are higher or lower depending on common types of trees, soil conditions, and other local factors. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult with a local pro.
Cost by stump diameter
Every stump is unique, so it’s hard to provide an estimate without knowing the specifics. Depending on the size of the stump you want grinded, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $5 per inch of diameter for stump grinding services.
Check the table below for average costs based on stump diameter:
| Stump Diameter | Average Cost to Grind |
| 6 inches | $15 – $30 |
| 12 inches | $26 – $62 |
| 18 inches | $36 – $90 |
| 24 inches | $48 – $135 |
| 36 inches | $71 – $200 |
| 48 inches | $98 – $265 |
| 60 inches | $120 – $330 |
| 72 inches | $147 – $395 |
Note: Most companies charge a minimum fee of $100, regardless of the size of the stump.
Cost by number of stumps
On average, it will cost $120 to $210 for the first stump and an additional $40 to $70 for each additional stump. You get a discount on additional stumps because the initial setup cost is the same, regardless of the number of stumps. The cost per stump decreases as the number of stumps increases.
Cost of labor
Labor for stump grinding typically runs $125 to $200 per hour, which accounts for 90% of the cost to remove the stump. If your stump sits on a steep slope, behind a narrow gate, or wedged between garden beds, explicit the costs to run higher. Moreover, hardwood stumps add will also cost closer to the higher end.
The condition of the stump also plays a role in the cost of stump grinding. If the stump is healthy and easy to grind, the cost will be on the lower end of the spectrum. However, if the stump is rotted or infected with insects, it will be more difficult to grind and will likely cost more.
Cost of DIY stump grinding
The tools and supplies needed to grind a stump yourself will cost around $445 to $585. This includes renting a stump grinder, which can be rented or between $180 and $360 for a full day..
If you have a large number of stumps or if they are located in difficult-to-reach areas, it may be more cost-effective (not to mention safer) to hire a professional stump grinding service.
Note: Stump grinding can be a dangerous job if you don’t have the proper training and equipment. Be sure to wear safety gear and follow all manufacturer’s instructions when operating a stump grinder. We recommend hiring a professional if you are not comfortable and familiar with heavy machinery.
For more information, check out our guide: How to Remove a Tree Stump
Other factors that affect cost
The price of stump grinding services may be higher or lower than what you’d typically expect given the size of a stump, depending on a few factors. Here are a few things that can affect the cost:
Type of tree stump
Most stump-grinding companies price jobs by diameter or hourly, not by the tree’s species. However, the type of wood influences how long the grinder has to sit in one spot (and time is money).
Softwoods like pine and cedar have lighter, less dense fibers that wear down faster, so they usually fall toward the low end of the price range. On the other hand, dense hardwoods like oak or maple have tightly packed growth rings, which take longer to grind and cost more.
Root removal
The cost of root removal varies depending on the size and condition of the roots, but you can expect to pay an additional $150 per hour of work.
In some cases, the roots of the tree may need to be removed in addition to grinding the stump. This is typically only necessary if the root system is causing damage to your property or creating a trip hazard.
Debris removal
In most cases, the company that grinds your stump will also remove the debris for an additional fee. The cost of debris removal varies depending on the amount and type of debris, but you can expect to pay an additional $50 to $200 per hour that it takes to clean up and haul the debris.
Some companies may include the cost of debris removal in their initial quote, while others will charge it as an additional service.
| Average overall cost of debris removal | $50 – $200 |
| Average cost per hour for debris removal | $50 |
| Average cost of debris removal per inch of ground stump | $2 to $4 |
Permit cost
The cost of permits varies depending on the municipality, but you can expect to pay an additional $90 to $485. This is a one-time fee that covers the cost of the permit and the inspections required to ensure that the stump is removed properly.
You need a permit because there could be utility lines such as gas, water, or sewer underneath the stump. If these lines are damaged during the stump grinding process, it could cause major problems for you and your neighbors.
FAQ
Most of the time, yes, grinding a stump is worth the money and the trouble. A stump in your yard can be extremely inconvenient when you’re mowing the lawn or even just playing around with your kids in the backyard. Even worse, a dead, rotting stump can attract pests such as termites, which can then find their way into your home.
A small stump can usually be ground down in an hour or less, while a large stump may take several hours to grind down completely.
After the stump is ground down, the roots will still be in the ground. They may eventually decompose on their own, or you can use a shovel to remove them.
Grinding to the finish line
Stumps can be unsightly and difficult to remove on your own. If you’re considering stump grinding, it’s important to weigh the cost of the project against the benefits. In most cases, hiring a professional to remove a stump is the best option.
If you’re interested in making your yard stand out, Lawn Love pros provides mowing, yard cleanup, leaf removal, and many other services.
Maria Isabela Reis contributed to this article.
Read More:
– How Much Does Shrub and Bush Removal Cost?
– How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
– How Much Does Yard Cleanup Cost?
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image: A large wooden stump milled using a grinder. Photo Credit: Valdis / Adobe Stock
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