Stump grinding is the fast, affordable way to get rid of a stump — but quotes range enough that it pays to know the going rate before you book.
Stump grinding usually costs $100 to $400 per stump, with most companies charging about $2 to $5 per inch of diameter and a minimum fee around $100. A typical single stump averages roughly $150–$250. Price scales with stump size, root flare, and how many you grind at once.
Here’s the full breakdown and how to keep it cheap. Comparing methods? See stump removal cost.
How grinding is priced
Most pros price by stump diameter at the widest point of the base (including the root flare), then apply a per-inch rate with a minimum charge.
| Pricing method | Typical rate |
|---|---|
| Per inch of diameter | $2 – $5 per inch |
| Per stump (flat) | $100 – $400 |
| Minimum / trip fee | ~$100 |
| Per hour (large jobs) | $150 – $250/hr |
Cost by stump size
| Diameter | Approx. grinding cost |
|---|---|
| Small (up to 12″) | $100 – $175 |
| Medium (12″–24″) | $175 – $300 |
| Large (24″–36″) | $300 – $400 |
| Very large (36″+) | $400+ |
What’s usually included (and not)
- Included: grinding the stump 4–12 inches below grade.
- Often extra: hauling grindings, backfilling with topsoil, grinding surface roots beyond the stump.
- Tip: grindings make free mulch — leaving them on site saves a hauling fee.
Multi-stump discounts
The first stump carries the trip charge, so additional stumps are much cheaper — sometimes half price. If you have several, grind them in one visit, or compare against renting a stump grinder (about $100–$200/day), which can be cheaper for 3+ stumps.
What drives the price
- Stump size and root spread
- Hardwood vs. softwood (hardwoods grind slower)
- Access for the grinder (gates, slopes, tight yards)
- Rocks or debris in the soil
- Cleanup and backfill choices
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost to grind one stump?
About $150–$250 for a typical stump; small ones near the $100 minimum, large ones $400+.
How is stump grinding measured?
By diameter at the base including the root flare, usually at $2–$5 per inch.
Is grinding or full removal better?
Grinding is cheaper and faster and fine for most yards; choose full removal if you’ll build or replant in the exact spot. See the comparison.
Do I have to pay to remove the wood chips?
Only if you want them hauled. Left in place they make useful mulch and save money.
Disclaimer: Prices are general 2026 estimates and vary by region, stump, and company. Get local quotes. General information, not a guaranteed price.
How stump grinding is actually priced
Most companies price by the stump’s diameter measured at the widest point of the base (including the root flare), typically at about $2–$5 per inch with a minimum charge around $100. A cluster of stumps is cheaper per stump because the crew is already on site and the trip fee is spread out.
What raises the price
- Size and root spread — bigger, wider-rooted stumps take longer.
- Hardwood vs. softwood — dense hardwoods grind slower.
- Access — gates, slopes, and tight yards that block a grinder add labor.
- Rocks and debris in the soil dull teeth and slow the job.
Grinding vs. full removal, and what’s included
Grinding chews the stump 4–12 inches below grade and leaves the roots to decay — cheaper and fine for most lawns. Full removal extracts the stump and major roots for a build-ready spot but costs more and leaves a big hole. Grinding usually does not include hauling the wood chips (they make free mulch) or backfilling the hole, so confirm those in the quote.
Ways to save on stump grinding
Bundle several stumps into one visit, leave the grindings on site as mulch to skip hauling, and — if you have three or more stumps — compare a company quote against renting a grinder for the day. Schedule grinding alongside other tree work for a package rate.
Jack Turner
