Stump removal costs $150 to $600 on average. Stump grinding runs $100-$400 per stump while full extraction costs $300-$1,200+. Most homeowners pay around $300-$400 for a medium stump.
Average Stump Removal Costs
Stump removal cost by diameter
| Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small stump (under 12 in) | $150 – $350 |
| Medium stump (12-24 in) | $250 – $600 |
| Large stump (24-36 in) | $400 – $900 |
| Very large stump (36+ in) | $600 – $1,200 |
Most homeowners pay between $150 and $600 per stump, with the average around $300 to $400 for a medium-sized stump.
Grinding vs Full Removal
There are two main approaches, and they differ significantly in cost and result.
Stump Grinding
A stump grinder chips away the stump to 4 to 6 inches below ground level. The roots are left in place and decompose naturally over time.
- Cost: $100 to $400 per stump (often cheaper for multiple stumps)
- Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours per stump
- Result: Stump gone, roots remain underground, area can be covered with soil and grass
This is the most common and cost-effective option for most homeowners.
Full Stump Extraction
The entire stump and root ball are dug out and removed. This requires heavier equipment and more labor.
- Cost: $300 to $1,200+ per stump
- Time: Several hours to a full day
- Result: Complete removal, large hole that needs to be filled
Full extraction is only necessary if you plan to build something in that exact spot (a new tree, patio, foundation, etc.) or if the roots are causing damage to nearby structures.
Factors That Affect Cost
Stump Size
Diameter is the biggest cost factor. Some companies charge per inch of diameter (typically $2 to $5 per inch for grinding). A 20-inch stump at $3 per inch would be $60, but most companies have minimum charges of $100 to $150.
Number of Stumps
Multiple stumps on the same property usually get a discount. The first stump costs full price, but additional stumps may be 25 to 50 percent cheaper since the equipment is already on site. Bundling stumps is just one of several strategies we cover in our guide on how to save on tree removal.
Root System
Extensive surface roots that need grinding add to the cost. If roots are damaging a sidewalk, driveway, or foundation, the cleanup is more involved.
Accessibility
Stumps in tight spaces (close to fences, buildings, or other trees) are harder to reach with equipment and cost more. Stumps in open yards are the easiest and cheapest to remove.
Can You DIY Stump Removal?
Stump grinder rental: $200 to $400 per day. If you have multiple stumps and are comfortable with heavy equipment, this can save money. However, stump grinders are powerful and potentially dangerous if you have not used one before.
Chemical removal: Products like potassium nitrate can accelerate decomposition. Drill holes in the stump, fill with chemical, add water, and wait 4 to 6 weeks. The stump softens and can be broken apart with an axe. This costs $10 to $30 but takes months.
Burning: Where permitted by local fire codes, you can burn a stump out after it has been chemically treated. This is slow and requires constant supervision.
For most homeowners, hiring a professional for grinding is the best balance of cost, speed, and safety. If you still need the tree itself removed, our tree removal cost guide covers what to expect for the full job.
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