If you're looking to remove an old tree stump, you've probably wondered: What's this going to cost me? Well, that depends-on the size of the stump, where you live, and whether you DIY or hire a pro. Below, we break down everything you need to know so you can estimate costs and plan smart.
Quick tip: The bigger the stump, the bigger the jump. A 12" stump might cost $50—while a 60" monster could run over $400. Measuring diameter upfront saves time and money.
If you want to know how long grinding takes by size, check out our Stump Grinding Time by Diameter: How Long It Takes by Size (2025 Chart) for a detailed breakdown.
Key Takeaways
- 💵 Prices range from $30 to over $400 depending on stump size.
- 📍 Your region affects labor rates-urban and coastal areas tend to cost more.
- 💡 Stump removal can be charged per inch, per stump, hourly, or daily.
- 🛠️ DIY can save money-but it's only worth it if you know what you're doing.
Stump Grinding Cost by Diameter
Here's a breakdown of typical prices based on stump diameter-this is one of the most common pricing methods used by professionals.
| Stump Diameter | Average Cost 💰 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 12 inches | $30–$70 | Small stumps are quicker and easier to grind. |
| 24 inches | $50–$150 | Medium-sized stumps require more time and effort. |
| 36 inches | $70–$220 | Larger stumps may need heavy-duty equipment. |
| 48 inches | $100–$290 | Extra-large stumps take longer, cleanup may cost more. |
| 60+ inches | $120–$430 | Massive stumps may require specialized equipment. |
What This Table Shows
This table organizes stump grinding cost by diameter size, from small backyard stumps to massive hardwood giants. The larger the diameter, the more time, power, and effort required to grind through it.
- Variables: Cost depends on the diameter at the widest point, wood density (oak vs. pine), and grinder type.
- Why this matters: You'll often be quoted per inch or by size category. Knowing your stump diameter helps you avoid ballpark pricing or surprise upcharges.
If you’re curious what to do once the grinding is done, see our What to Do After Grinding a Stump: Your Complete Guide for tips and next steps.
Regional Price Differences
Location plays a big role in pricing. Labor rates, demand, and terrain can vary widely from city to city.
| Region 🌎 | City 🏙️ | Cost Range 💵 |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | New York, NY | $135–$252 |
| Southeast | Atlanta, GA | $109–$192 |
| Midwest | Minneapolis, MN | $119–$214 |
| Northwest | Seattle, WA | $126–$227 |
| Southwest | Houston, TX | $110–$193 |
In general:
- Expect higher costs in cities like New York or Seattle.
- The Midwest and Southeast tend to be more affordable.
- Prices often include local factors like access difficulty or debris removal regulations.
Understanding Service Types
Not all stump grinding jobs are priced the same way. Here's how different contractors bill for their work:
| Service Type 🛠️ | Cost Range 💲 | Notes 📝 |
|---|---|---|
| Per Stump (First) | $120–$400 | Includes setup and base fee for first stump. |
| Per Stump (Additional) | $30–$60 | Discounts apply once grinder is on-site. |
| Per Inch | $2–$6/inch | Used for accurate pricing based on stump diameter. |
| Hourly Rate | $100–$200/hour | For complex or multi-stump jobs. |
| Daily Rate | $800–$1,600/day | For large or industrial-scale projects. |
- Per stump is common for simple jobs or one-off removals.
- Per inch gives more pricing accuracy, especially for larger or irregular stumps.
- Hourly or daily rates are usually for big jobs with multiple stumps or tough terrain.
- Keep in mind: additional stumps are cheaper once the grinder is on-site.
📌 Don’t forget: If you’ve got multiple stumps, bundle pricing can cut your per-stump cost in half. Always ask for package rates.
DIY vs. Professional Costs
Should you rent a stump grinder and do it yourself? Or is it better to hire a pro? This table compares both options.
| Method ⚒️ | Cost Estimate 💵 | Includes 🧾 | Best For 👍 |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Rental | $150–$450/day | Rental, fuel, safety gear. No labor included. | Experienced users or multiple stumps in one day. |
| Professional Service | $250/job avg | Labor, equipment, and typically cleanup. | Most homeowners — safe, fast, and efficient. |
DIY makes sense if:
- You've got multiple stumps.
- You're confident operating heavy machinery.
- The ground is flat, and access is easy.
Hiring a pro is better if:
- It's your first time dealing with stumps.
- The stump is large, near structures, or in a tight spot.
- You want the job done safely and quickly, with cleanup included.
For insights into chipper pricing, check out our How Much Does a Wood Chipper Cost? The Ultimate Price Guide for 2025 to compare equipment costs.
How to Use This Data in Real Life
- Based on Table 1, your cost is likely around $100-$180.
- According to Table 2, that lines up with the Southeast average.
- If you've got two or three more stumps, Table 3 shows you could save by using a per-stump discount or negotiating an hourly rate.
- Want to rent your own grinder? Table 4 tells you to budget $150-$450/day, but be prepared for some muscle work.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're clearing out one stump or tackling a yard full, the cost of stump grinding can vary quite a bit. But with this guide:
- You can estimate pricing more confidently.
- You'll understand how stump size, location, and method affect the total cost.
- You'll know when it's worth doing it yourself-and when it's better to call in the pros.
👉 Need a grinder? Check out our Stump Grinder Collection to compare models or book a pro near you.
