Quick Answer: Stump Removal Cost
The most common stump service — grinding — typically costs $120–$440 per stump for most homeowners, based on national pricing data. Full stump and root extraction typically runs$200–$650+ per stump. Most companies charge a minimum service fee of $75–$150 even for small, quick jobs.
Estimate disclaimer: These estimated ranges are based on national pricing data for stump services. Your actual quote depends on soil conditions, stump age, root complexity, and your contractor's pricing model.
Small (under 12 in)
$100 – $175
Grinding, simple roots
Medium (12–24 in)
$175 – $275
Grinding, standard
Large (24–36 in)
$275 – $400
Grinding, standard
Full Removal (any size)
$200 – $650
Roots fully extracted
Cost by Stump Diameter
Diameter is the primary pricing variable for stump services. Most companies use either a flat fee per stump or a per-inch-of-diameter rate ($2–$5/inch).
| Stump Diameter | Grinding Cost | Full Removal Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Under 12 inches | $100 – $175 | $150 – $300 |
| 12–24 inches | $175 – $275 | $250 – $450 |
| 24–36 inches | $275 – $400 | $400 – $600 |
| Over 36 inches | $400 – $600+ | $550 – $800+ |
Stump Grinding vs. Full Stump Removal
Stump Grinding
Grinding uses a rotating blade to chip the stump 6–12 inches below grade. It's the most common residential service — faster, less disruptive, and significantly cheaper than full removal. The roots remain underground and decompose naturally over 5–10 years.
Choose grinding when: you're not replanting in the same spot, the area will be covered by lawn or garden beds, and root decay underground isn't a concern.
Full Stump Removal
Full removal extracts the entire root ball using an excavator or heavy pulling equipment. It leaves the area completely clear but creates a large hole that needs to be filled. Costs roughly 50–80% more than grinding for the same stump size.
Choose full removal when: you plan to replant a tree or large shrub in the same location, you need to lay a foundation or structure over the area, or the roots are causing infrastructure damage.
Multi-Stump Pricing
Most companies offer significant discounts for multiple stumps in one visit. The mobilization fee ($75–$150) is fixed, so each additional stump costs considerably less than the first. For 3+ stumps, expect to pay 20–35% less per stump than the single-stump rate.
What Else Affects the Cost?
- Root complexity: Widespread or deep roots require more passes and time
- Access: Stumps behind fences or in tight spaces require smaller, more expensive equipment
- Debris removal: Hauling chips costs $25–$75 extra; most clients keep chips as mulch
- Location: Urban areas with higher labor costs will pay 20–40% above rural rates
DIY Stump Removal Options
Renting a stump grinder costs $150–$400/day. It's only cost-effective if you have 3+ stumps and the confidence to operate heavy equipment safely.
Chemical stump removal (potassium nitrate treatments) is slow — taking 6–12 months to work — and requires drilling, pouring chemicals, and multiple follow-up applications. It's cheapest for stumps where time isn't a factor.
How These Estimates Are Generated
Stump cost bases are derived from national pricing data for stump grinding and full removal services, adjusted by stump diameter, root complexity, and service type.
What these estimates cover: Typical residential removal in a standard access situation, including labor, equipment, and debris hauling. They do not include permits, log splitting, or emergency premiums unless those options are selected.
What they don't replace: A professional site assessment. Actual contractor prices vary based on individual overhead, seasonal demand, equipment availability, and site conditions no formula can fully capture.Always get at least 2–3 written quotes.