Stump Grinding Cost: How to Price by Diameter and Access

Stump grinding is priced by stump diameter measured at ground level, adjusted for grind depth, root flare, machine access, and whether the customer wants the grindings hauled away or left to backfill.

What does stump grinding cost?

Per-stump pricing is commonly $80 to $150 for the first stump and $40 to $80 for each additional stump at the same site. Per-inch pricing runs $3 to $6 per inch of diameter, with a minimum charge of $75 to $125. Large or old-growth stumps over 30 inches can be $250 to $500 each.

What factors add to the price?

• Grind depth — standard is 4–6 inches below grade; full root removal for replanting or construction costs more
• Surface roots radiating out that also need grinding
• Access — a gate under 36 inches means a narrow-access machine or hand work
• Rocks, fences, or utilities near the stump that slow the operator
• Haul-off of grindings and backfill with topsoil vs. leaving the mulch pile

How should access be reflected in the quote?

A stump a large machine can drive to is cheap. A backyard stump behind a narrow gate, up steps, or across a soft lawn needs a stand-on or towable grinder and more time — that is a different price. Confirm access before quoting, or quote with an access assumption stated.

What should you tell the customer about the hole?

Grinding leaves a depression full of wood chips that settles over months. State whether your price includes hauling chips and filling with soil, or whether the customer is left with a mulch mound to settle and reseed. This is the most common post-job complaint and a one-line estimate note prevents it.