Free Tool

Stump Grinding Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost to grind a stump based on diameter, depth, and clean-up options.

Measure straight across the stump at ground level, including any exposed surface roots you want removed.
20 in
How deep below grade the grinder needs to go. 4-6" is standard for grass. 12"+ is required for replanting.
6 in
Grinding produces a huge amount of wood chips. Do you want them hauled away or left in a pile?
Leave Chips (Cheaper)
Haul Away Chips
Do you need the surface roots trailing out from the stump ground down as well?
No, just the stump
Yes, grind surface roots
Estimated Cost
$0 - $0
National average estimate. Minimum trip charges ($100-$150) often apply.

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How much does stump grinding cost?

The average cost to grind a stump ranges from $150 to $400, with most homeowners paying roughly $3 to $4 per inch of diameter. However, the true price varies depending on the depth of the grind, the age and species of the wood, and what you want done with the leftover wood chips.

Understanding Stump Grinding Pricing

  • Diameter is King: Almost all tree services price stump grinding by the inch. When measuring, you must measure the widest point of the stump at ground level, which often includes the root flare (the wide base of the tree) rather than the narrower cut trunk at the top.
  • Grinding Depth: A standard "surface grind" goes 4 to 6 inches below ground level, which is perfect if you just want to grow grass over the spot. If you plan to plant a new tree in the exact same spot, the arborist must grind 12 to 18 inches deep to destroy the taproot, which takes significantly more time and costs more.
  • The "Mountain of Mulch": Grinding a stump produces a surprisingly massive pile of wood chips and dirt—often three times the volume of the original stump. Most cheap quotes leave this pile for you to deal with. If you want the hole filled with topsoil and the chips hauled away, expect to pay an extra $50 to $100.
  • Minimum Trip Charges: Even if you have a tiny 5-inch stump, tree companies have overhead costs just to drive the heavy equipment to your house. Most companies have a minimum trip charge of $100 to $150.