Stump grinding costs and prices for every U.S. state

Stump grinding costs about $210 for one average 24-inch stump, and most homeowners pay $140 to $295. Small stumps usually cost the job minimum of about $150, while stumps over 36 inches can cost $315 or more.

A small stump up to 12 inches across usually costs $115 to $235. Most companies charge their job minimum for a single small stump, so grinding several at once is far better value.

A 36-inch stump typically costs $250, and a 48-inch stump about $315. Very large stumps need bigger machines and more time, so many companies charge a higher per-inch rate above 36 inches.

Most companies charge $2.00 to $5.00 per inch of diameter, plus a minimum charge. See our stump grinding cost per inch guide for worked examples.

The first stump carries the travel and setup charge. Each additional stump on the same visit usually costs much less, around $65 for an 18-inch stump. Bundling every stump into one visit is the easiest way to save.

Yes. Grinding cuts the stump down 6 to 12 inches below the soil and leaves the roots to rot. Full stump removal digs out the stump and main roots and usually costs 1.3 to 2.5 times as much.

Usually not. Most quotes leave the grindings on site for you to use as mulch or fill. Hauling them away typically adds $2 to $4 per inch of diameter or $50 to $200 per job.

Yes. Dense hardwoods such as oak, hickory, maple and walnut take longer to grind, so expect about 10% to 25% more than a softwood or palm stump of the same size.

Most grinders cut 6 to 12 inches below ground level, which is enough to lay sod or seed grass. Deeper grinding for planting a new tree or building is possible but usually costs extra.

A typical residential stump takes 15 minutes to 1 hour to grind. Large hardwood stumps with spreading surface roots can take 2 hours or more.

For most yards, yes. Grinding removes the trip and mower hazard, stops most regrowth and frees the space for lawn or planting, usually for a few hundred dollars.

Yes. A walk-behind stump grinder rents for about $106 to $135 for four hours or $150 to $400 a day. It suits a few small to medium stumps, but large hardwood stumps are usually cheaper and safer to hire out. See our DIY stump removal guides.

Most trees will not. Some species, such as willow, poplar, mesquite and sweetgum, can send up shoots from the remaining roots. Cutting the shoots as they appear, or grinding deeper, stops regrowth.

Late fall and winter are usually the slowest season for tree crews, and some offer 10% to 20% off. Prices tend to rise in spring and after major storms.

Yes. Stump grinders cut below the soil, where gas, power, water and irrigation lines may run. Calling 811 for a free utility locate a few business days before the job is required or strongly recommended in every state.

Labor is the largest part of the bill. Stump grinding costs most in states with high wages and living costs, such as New Jersey, Oregon, Minnesota, and least in lower-cost states. Typical prices for a 24-inch stump run from about $180 to $235 against a national $210.