The fastest way to get rid of a tree stump is stump grinding, which costs about $210 for a typical stump and takes under an hour. Cheaper options are chemical stump remover at about $10 to $30 (4 to 6 weeks or more) or digging out small stumps by hand.
Not sure which option fits your yard and budget? Start with the typical prices on our stump grinding costs homepage, then compare methods below.
The 5 ways to get rid of a stump
| Method | Typical cost | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional grinding | $120–$450 | Under 1 hour | Most stumps |
| Rent a grinder | $106–$400 | Half a day | A few small stumps |
| Dig out by hand | $0–$125 in tools | 2–16 hours | Stumps under 10” |
| Chemical remover | $10–$30 | 4–6+ weeks | No rush, small budget |
| Full removal | $200–$700 | 1–4 hours | Building over the spot |
1. Stump grinding
A grinder chews the stump into chips 6 to 12 inches below ground. It is the fastest and cleanest option. See the full stump grinding cost guide or try the cost calculator.
2. Rent a stump grinder
Good for one to three small stumps if you are comfortable with heavy equipment. Compare stump grinder rental costs first.
3. Dig it out by hand
Practical for small stumps. Follow our step-by-step digging guide.
4. Chemical stump remover
Potassium nitrate speeds up rot. It is cheap but slow. See how to rot a stump fast.
5. Full stump removal
Digging out the stump and main roots with machinery. Needed only before building. See the stump removal cost guide.
Keep reading
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Cost guide Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal Stump grinding costs about $210 per stump; full removal costs about $380. Compare cost, time, results and when each option makes sense for your yard. -
DIY Chemical Stump Removal: Step-by-Step How to remove a tree stump with chemicals: drilling, applying potassium nitrate, timing, safety and costs. Plus when grinding is a better choice. -
DIY How to Remove a Tree Stump by Hand How to dig out a tree stump by hand with a mattock, shovel and root saw. Step-by-step method, tools, time needed and which stumps are small enough to try.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to get rid of a tree stump?
Grinding. A professional can grind a typical stump in 15 minutes to an hour.
What is the cheapest way to get rid of a stump?
Chemical stump remover at about $10 to $30, or letting the stump rot naturally, which is free but can take years.
Can I get rid of a stump without a grinder?
Yes. Dig it out by hand, use potassium nitrate stump remover, or let it rot. These work best on small stumps.
How long does it take a stump to rot naturally?
Usually 3 to 10 years, depending on wood type, size and moisture. Softwoods rot faster than oak.
Should I burn a tree stump?
Burning is banned in many areas and stumps can smolder underground. Check local rules; grinding is safer.
Do I need to remove the roots too?
Usually not. Roots rot once the stump is gone. Grind or cut only roots that are in the way.
What is the best method for a large stump?
Professional grinding. Large stumps are slow and hard to dig out and take a long time to rot.
Can I plant over a stump?
You can plant shallow groundcover or a container garden over a stump, but grass and new trees need the stump removed or ground first.
Sources and methodology
Last updated . Prices are estimates built from published contractor rates, national cost guides and federal labor data. Read how we calculate prices.