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Stump Grinding Cost Calculator

Estimate tree stump removal costs based on diameter, rate per inch, and additional services. Calculate single or multiple stumps with bulk discounts.

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Quick Estimate: Stump Diameter × $2-$5/inch (minimum $100-$150)

Example: 18" stump × $3.50/inch = $63 → Pay minimum $125 | Large 30" stump × $3.50 = $105

🪵 Stump Details

Medium Stump

💰 Estimated Cost

Estimated Cost Range

$106 - $144

Average: $125

Stump Diameter18"
Rate × Diameter$3.50 × 18 = $63
Base Cost (w/ minimum)$125

💡 Tip: Get 3 quotes from local pros. Prices vary by region, tree species, and company.

🪵 How Stump Grinding Pricing Works

Stump grinding is the most common and cost-effective way to remove tree stumps. A professional uses a specialized machine with a rotating cutting wheel to chip away the wood, typically grinding 4-6 inches below ground level.

How Companies Calculate Price

Most stump grinding services use one of these pricing methods:

  • Per-inch pricing: $2-$5 per inch of diameter (most common)
  • Per-stump flat rate: Fixed price per stump regardless of size
  • Hourly rate: $150-$250/hour (typically for large commercial jobs)

Measuring Your Stump

How to Measure:

  1. Measure at the widest point above ground
  2. Measure the trunk, not the root flare at ground level
  3. For irregular shapes, measure longest and shortest, then average
  4. Round up to the nearest inch

What Affects Stump Grinding Cost?

Several factors beyond size affect your final price:

  • Tree species: Hardwoods (oak, maple) take longer than softwoods (pine)
  • Root complexity: Surface roots extending far from stump cost extra
  • Accessibility: Tight spaces, slopes, or obstacles increase cost
  • Grinding depth: Standard is 4-6"; deeper costs more
  • Cleanup preference: Leaving chips vs. hauling away

📋 Quick Reference

• Rate: $2-$5 per inch

• Minimum fee: $100-$150

• Small (<12"): ~$100-$150

• Medium (12-24"): ~$150-$300

• Large (24"+): $300-$800+

🎉 Bulk Discounts

• 2-4 stumps: ~10% off

• 5-9 stumps: ~15% off

• 10+ stumps: ~20% off

Frequently Asked Questions

Stump grinding cost is typically calculated by multiplying the stump diameter (in inches) by the rate per inch ($2-$5). For example, a 20-inch stump at $3/inch = $60. However, most companies have a minimum service fee of $100-$150, so small stumps often cost the minimum regardless of size. Add-ons like cleanup, deep grinding, or difficult access increase the total.

A 12-inch stump typically costs $100-$150 to grind, which is usually the minimum service fee. At $3-$4 per inch, a 12-inch stump would calculate to $36-$48, but since this is below the minimum, you'll pay the minimum fee. Multiple 12-inch stumps together get a better per-stump rate.

Stump grinding is significantly cheaper than full stump removal. Grinding typically costs $100-$400 per stump, while complete removal (including all roots) costs $150-$500+ per stump. Grinding leaves roots underground to decompose naturally, while removal excavates everything. Choose grinding unless you're planning construction or planting a new tree in the exact spot.

Standard stump grinding goes 4-6 inches below ground level, which is sufficient for planting grass. If you plan to plant a new tree or install landscaping, request 8-12 inches deep (costs 20-30% more). For construction or paving, you may need 12-18 inches deep or complete removal.

Yes, but it's often not cost-effective for 1-2 stumps. Renting a small stump grinder costs $150-$300/day plus delivery. You'll also need safety gear and time to learn the equipment. DIY makes sense for 5+ stumps or if you have ongoing needs. For 1-3 stumps, hiring a professional is usually cheaper and faster.

Several factors can increase cost: 1) Large diameter (>24 inches), 2) Hardwood species (oak, hickory) vs softwood, 3) Deep grinding requests, 4) Difficult access (slopes, fences, near structures), 5) Extensive root systems requiring grinding, 6) Cleanup and debris removal, 7) Soil filling and reseeding the area.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on industry averages. Actual costs vary significantly by location, tree species, accessibility, and company pricing. Always get multiple quotes from licensed, insured professionals before hiring. Prices shown are for estimation purposes only.