Stump grinding is cheaper and faster: about $210 for a typical stump versus about $380 for full removal. Grinding is the right choice for lawns and gardens, while full removal is only needed if you will build or dig in that exact spot.
See local grinding prices on the stump grinding costs homepage.
Side-by-side comparison
| Stump grinding | Full stump removal | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost (24”) | About $210 | About $380 |
| Common range | $120–$450 | $200–$700 |
| Time per stump | 15–60 minutes | 1–4 hours |
| Roots | Left to rot | Main roots removed |
| Lawn damage | Small chip area | Large hole, equipment tracks |
| Best for | Lawns, gardens, mulch beds | Building, pools, patios |
When to choose stump grinding
Choose grinding if you want to mow over the area, lay sod, plant a garden bed or simply get rid of a trip hazard. It is quicker, cheaper and less disruptive. See how deep stump grinding goes for what is left below ground.
When to choose full stump removal
Choose removal if you plan to build a shed, patio, driveway or addition in that spot, or if the tree species resprouts aggressively from its roots. See the stump removal cost guide for full prices.
The bottom line
For most homeowners, grinding is the better value. Use the stump grinding cost calculator to price your job.
Keep reading
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Cost guide Stump Removal Cost in 2026 Full stump removal costs $200 to $700 per stump in 2026. Compare removal vs. grinding, see prices by stump size and learn when digging out roots is worth it. -
Cost guide How Deep Does Stump Grinding Go? Stump grinders typically cut 6 to 12 inches below ground. Learn standard grind depths, when to grind deeper, what it costs and what happens to the roots. -
After grinding What to Do After Stump Grinding What to do after stump grinding: clearing the grindings, filling the hole, regrowing grass, handling roots and stopping sprouts, step by step.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to grind or remove a stump?
For most yards, grinding is better. It costs less, is faster and leaves less damage. Choose removal only if you need the roots gone for construction.
How much cheaper is stump grinding than removal?
Grinding usually costs 40% to 60% less than full removal for the same stump.
Do roots die after stump grinding?
For most species, yes. Without the stump, the remaining roots slowly rot over several years. A few species can resprout from roots.
Can I plant a tree where a stump was ground?
Yes, but plant a few feet away from the old stump, or remove the grindings and old roots first so the new tree has good soil.
Does stump removal damage the lawn more than grinding?
Usually. Removal leaves a large hole and heavy-equipment tracks, while grinding leaves a smaller area of chips.
Can I build over a ground stump?
It is not recommended. Decaying roots can settle and cause sinking under patios, sheds or foundations. Remove the stump fully before building.
Which is faster, grinding or removal?
Grinding a typical stump takes 15 minutes to an hour. Full removal can take several hours, especially for large root balls.
What about chemical stump removal?
Chemical removers cost about $10 per pound and soften the stump over 4 to 6 weeks or longer. They are cheap but slow, and you still need to break up the stump.
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.