How much does stump removal cost?
In total, homeowners spend an average of $250 to remove and grind tree stumps on their property. Total average costs typically range from $200-$300.
Stump removal cost:
|
National average cost |
$250 |
|
Average cost range |
$200-$300 |
|
Low-end cost |
$100-$125 |
|
High-end cost |
$650-$950 |
Prices above also include stump grinding.
Depending on the size of your stump, you may pay $68-$141 per stump. However, if you need your entire tree removed (including the branches and stump), costs can range from $155-$2,000 or more per tree.
Many other factors need to be taken into account when estimating costs. For example, stump removal rates may vary depending on where you live and the tree species or condition. Keep reading to learn more about the cost of removing a tree stump.
What’s in this cost guide?
When you hire a tree service to remove your stump, you’re paying for quick results and expertise. The company or contractor will give you a price based on how many tree stumps need to be removed. They may set a price based on how long the job will take, the size of the stump diameter and/or your tree species.
Ultimately, the tree service will factor in the cost of labor and equipment needed to remove your stump. Professionals may also set a minimum fee. For example, the Gordian Contractor’s Pricing Guide recommends a minimum charge of about $400 for stump removal.
There are many factors that impact the cost of stump removal. The two largest factors are the size and type of tree stump you’re removing. Harder wood and larger stumps tend to cost more to remove because they require more labor than softwood trees or those with a small stump diameter.
The time of year may impact prices as well. For example, if the ground is frozen during the winter, removing the tree stump might be more complicated and therefore cost more money. Ultimately, the harder it is for the pro to access the tree stump, the higher the cost. For an accurate cost estimate, pros will usually visit your home and examine the stump that needs to be removed.
Last thing: if you want materials hauled away or additional tree services (like trimming), expect to pay more. However, you may be able to get a discount if you have the same company or contractor take care of all your tree cutting needs.
Many tree services that provide stump removal also offer other services. For example, you may require stump grinding, tree trimming or tree removal.
Stump grinding cost
Tree stump grinding costs about $160-$250. Grinding is a popular method homeowners use to get rid of stubborn stumps in their yard. Remember that "stump removal" typically refers to using a backhoe to completely remove a stump and its roots. "Stump grinding" requires a stump grinder that will grind out the stump until you're left with a pile of sawdust or mulch. Some homeowners prefer stump grinding over stump removal because it's cheaper and quicker.
Tree trimming cost
Sometimes, a tree just needs a good trim, which costs around $490. Perhaps you have broken or dead branches that need to be cut before they land on your roof. Or, maybe the branches are getting too big, obscuring the views from your bedroom window and ruining your front yard’s aesthetic. If you need someone to cut your branches, ask your stump removal specialist if they also provide tree trimming or pruning services.
Tree removal cost
When you’re building a new structure, you might need to remove a tree. The same is true if you have a dead or diseased tree on your property. The cost to cut down and remove a tree can range from $155-$230 per tree to $2,000 or more.
There are a few ways you can lower your stump removal costs. For example, find out if the company charges extra for cleanup. If so, tell them you can handle the cleanup on your own.
Also, if you have multiple stumps or other tree projects that need to be done, find out if the pro offers discounts to customers who hire them for additional tree services.
Removing a tree stump is hard work. Although there are several DIY methods (using chemicals, a chainsaw, etc.) you can attempt, keep in mind these tactics may take you a long time. They can also be labor-intensive and dangerous.
When it comes to costs, you may be able to rent a stump grinder for a few hours. However, research rental prices to find out if it costs as much as hiring someone who knows what they’re doing. If prices are comparable, you’re probably better off hiring a professional stump removal service.
Related content: When to skip DIY and hire a pro instead.
If you’re ready to ask for professional help to remove your tree stump, find a local stump removal specialist on Thumbtack. Ask for cost estimates, and book your appointment today.
FAQs
Is it better to grind a stump or remove it?
Both options work well. When physically removing the stump with heavy equipment (like a backhoe), the company will dig up the stump and roots. There will be a lot of debris to take care of once the job is done. The pros may haul away the stump for you or leave it on site. Stump removal tends to cost more than stump grinding.
If you choose to grind your stump, the company will use a smaller machine that will grind the wood into a pulp but leave behind the roots. This machine is operated by one person and uses fast-moving rotating blades to shred the wood. Your pro can leave the pulp in the soil, which can act as compost and add nutrients to your soil.
Is it bad to leave a tree stump?
Usually, tree stump removal is an aesthetic issue. Tree stumps are naturally left behind in forested areas when trees are knocked down by wind or die from natural processes.
However, stumps will decay over time. This can add nutrients to the soil, but it may also attract unwanted growth and pests.
