Tree services · Repair, replace or choose · Updated November 2026
Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal
Stump grinding chips the stump down below ground level and leaves the roots to decay. Stump removal pulls out the stump and major roots. Grinding is cheaper and less disruptive; removal clears the ground completely.
Costs
| Option | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Stump grinding | $120–$500 (about $250 average) |
| Grinding priced by diameter | $2–$5 per inch, with a $100–$150 minimum common |
| Professional stump removal | $200–$500 |
| Root removal | $100–$200 per hour |
| Grinder rental (DIY) | $100–$300 per day |
From HomeAdvisor's stump grinding cost guide.
How they compare
| Grinding | Removal | |
|---|---|---|
| What is left | Roots below ground; wood chips | A hole to fill |
| Yard disruption | Small area | Larger excavation |
| Best for | Lawn or planting beds over the spot | Building, a patio or replanting in the same spot |
| Regrowth | Some species can sprout from roots | Unlikely |
Before work starts
- Call 811 to have underground utilities marked.
- Ask whether chips are hauled away or left as mulch.
- Ask how deep they will grind if you plan to plant grass or a tree there.
Sources
- HomeAdvisor: Stump grinding cost, accessed November 2026
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed above, not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor.