Stump Grinding Cost by Size and Per Inch (2026)

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.

Stump diameter matters most, followed by wood hardness, surface roots, access for the machine, the number of stumps, chip cleanup and where you live. Storm seasons and busy spring months can also push prices up.

Some do, especially for large or multi-stump jobs. Hourly rates usually run $100 to $200 an hour, with extra for difficult access. Most residential jobs are quoted per inch or per stump instead.

Often not. Many tree services quote stump grinding as a separate line item. Ask for it to be included when the tree is cut, since grinding on the same visit is usually cheaper.

Usually not for stumps on private residential property. Some cities and HOAs require permits for tree removal or work near protected trees, and permit fees can range from about $80 to $485.