Full stump removal costs $200 to $700 per stump, and about $380 for a typical 24-inch stump. Removal digs out the stump and main roots, so it costs about 1.3 to 2.5 times as much as grinding the same stump.
Most yards only need grinding. Compare with stump grinding costs first.
Stump removal cost by stump size
Removal prices climb quickly with diameter because a bigger stump has a bigger root ball to dig out.
| Stump diameter | Typical cost range |
|---|---|
| 6 inches | $50–$70 |
| 12 inches | $85–$200 |
| 24 inches | $200–$700 |
| 36 inches | $250–$750 |
| 48 inches | $540–$800 |
| 72 inches | $500–$1,100 |
What full stump removal involves
A crew digs around the stump, cuts the main roots and pulls the stump and root ball out with an excavator, skid steer or winch. The result is a clean hole that can be backfilled and built on. That extra digging and disposal is why removal costs more than stump grinding.
Extra costs with stump removal
- Hauling the stump away: $25 to $50 per stump.
- Backfilling the hole: $50 to $200 for topsoil.
- Additional stumps: $50 to $150 each on the same visit.
- Difficult access: fences, slopes or tight side yards add time.
Grinding or removal: which do you need?
Grind when you want a lawn, garden bed or mulch area. Remove when you are building over the spot. Read our full comparison of stump grinding vs. stump removal, or price a grinding job with the stump grinding cost calculator.
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. -
Cost guide Tree Removal and Stump Grinding Cost Removing a tree and grinding the stump together costs about $600 to $1,800 in 2026. See bundle prices, what is included and how to save by booking both at once. -
Cost guide Tree Root Grinding Cost Grinding surface roots usually adds about $150 per stump, or $100 to $200 an hour. See root grinding prices, when roots need removal and how to keep costs down.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does stump removal cost?
Full stump removal usually costs $200 to $700 per stump, with about $380 typical for a 24-inch stump. Very large stumps over 48 inches can cost $800 to $1,100.
Is stump removal more expensive than stump grinding?
Yes. Removal pulls out the stump and main roots, which takes heavier equipment and more labor. It usually costs 1.3 to 2.5 times as much as grinding.
When should I remove a stump instead of grinding it?
Choose full removal when you plan to build, pour concrete, install a pool or dig a foundation in that exact spot. For lawns and gardens, grinding is usually enough.
How much does it cost to remove a small stump?
Small stumps of 6 to 8 inches can cost as little as $50 to $100 to remove, though many companies charge a minimum of around $100.
Does stump removal include filling the hole?
Not always. Removal leaves a large hole. Backfilling with topsoil typically adds $50 to $200, so ask whether it is included.
How much does it cost to haul away a stump?
Disposal of the stump and roots usually adds $25 to $50 per stump, or $2 to $3 per inch of diameter with some companies.
Can I remove a stump myself to save money?
Small stumps under about 10 inches can be dug out by hand with a mattock, shovel and root saw. Larger stumps are safer and often cheaper to grind or hire out.
How much does tree and stump removal cost together?
Removing a medium tree and its stump together typically costs $600 to $1,800, depending on tree size and access.
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.