ISA Certified Arborists | Licensed • Bonded • Insured
Written By: Eric Ledford
ISA Certified Arborist – PN-9290A
ISA Qualified Tree Risk Assessor (TRAQ)
Stump removal costs vary based on the stump's diameter, tree species, root system, site access, and whether grinding or full root extraction is required. In the Seattle area, most residential stump removal projects range from a few hundred dollars for small, accessible stumps to over a thousand dollars for large stumps with extensive root systems or difficult access. Factors such as retaining walls, utilities, slopes, fencing, and landscaping can also affect pricing. The most accurate way to determine cost is to measure the stump diameter and evaluate site conditions. Below, we've provided typical price ranges, cost factors, and a stump removal calculator to help homeowners estimate their project.
This guide covers both stump grinding and complete stump removal, including the factors that influence pricing throughout Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound region.
The average stump removal cost in 2026 ranges from $180 to $600 per stump, with most homeowners paying between $250 and $500 for a typical residential stump grinding project. Larger stumps, extensive root systems, difficult access, and hardwood species can increase costs substantially, while smaller stumps in open, accessible areas are generally less expensive. National pricing surveys place the average stump grinding project between roughly $270 and $330, although actual costs vary significantly by region and site conditions.
For large stumps over 36 inches in diameter, projects commonly range from $800 to $1,500+, particularly when root flare, hillside access, utility conflicts, debris removal, or extensive surface root grinding are involved. Complete stump removal, which extracts the stump and root system rather than grinding below grade, is typically more expensive than stump grinding alone.
| Stump Diameter | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Under 12" | $150-$250 |
| 12"-24" | $250-$450 |
| 24"-36" | $450-$800 |
| 36"+ | $800-$1500 |
These ranges are intended as general budgeting guidelines. Actual pricing depends on stump diameter, tree species, root spread, site access, cleanup requirements, and whether the stump is being ground below grade or completely removed. Many contractors also apply a minimum mobilization charge for small projects.
Use the guide below to estimate the cost of stump removal based on stump diameter and site conditions. While every project is unique, stump size is typically the largest factor affecting price. Additional considerations such as access, root flare, slope, utilities, landscaping, and cleanup requirements can increase or decrease the final cost.
Measure the widest point of the stump at ground level, including any root flare that extends beyond the trunk.
| Stump Diameter | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Under 12" | $150-$250 |
| 12"-24" | $250-$450 |
| 24"-36" | $450-$800 |
| 36"+ | $800-$1500 |
The following factors can affect stump removal pricing:
✓ Limited equipment access
✓ Hillsides or steep slopes
✓ Retaining walls, fences, or structures nearby
✓ Utility conflicts and underground infrastructure
✓ Extensive surface roots
✓ Multiple stumps removed during the same visit
✓ Debris removal and site restoration
A 24-inch stump in an accessible front yard may cost approximately $250–$450 to remove. The same stump located behind a fence on a steep slope with extensive roots could cost substantially more due to labor and equipment limitations.
📷 Want a more accurate estimate? Send us a photo and the approximate stump diameter for a fast preliminary price range.
Stump diameter is one of the biggest factors in stump removal pricing. Larger stumps take more grinding time, create more wood chips, and often include wider root flare or surface roots.
Best for small ornamental trees, fruit trees, and young landscape trees with easy access.
Common for many residential trees, including cherry, alder, birch, and smaller maples.
Often includes mature landscape trees with larger root flare and more grinding depth.
Typical for large fir, cedar, cottonwood, and mature trees with heavier root systems.
May require specialized equipment, multiple grinding passes, or extensive root grinding.
Keep in mind: Two stumps with the same diameter can have very different removal costs. Tree species, root flare, hillside access, underground utilities, retaining walls, fencing, and cleanup requirements can all affect final pricing.
Stump grinding is usually the more affordable option because the stump is ground below grade while most of the root system remains underground. Complete stump removal requires digging out the stump and major roots, which takes more labor, equipment, and site restoration.
Stump size matters, but the final price also depends on access, terrain, roots, cleanup, and site conditions. Two stumps with the same diameter can have very different removal costs.
In the Seattle area, stump removal pricing is often affected by tight access, hillside properties, retaining walls, fences, underground utilities, and dense urban landscaping. Small, accessible stumps may cost a few hundred dollars, while large stumps, difficult access, or extensive root grinding can cost significantly more.
For the most accurate Seattle stump removal estimate, measure the stump diameter at ground level and send photos showing the stump, access route, nearby structures, and any slopes or obstacles.
Remove unwanted stumps safely and efficiently with professional stump grinding services. Whether you're preparing for sod installation, landscaping, replanting, or simply reclaiming usable yard space, our ISA Certified Arborists can help throughout Seattle and the Puget Sound region.
✅ Grind stumps 6–18" below grade
✅ Site preparation for sod, landscaping, or replanting
✅ Multiple-stump discounts available
✅ Tight-access properties welcome
✅ Free estimates throughout Puget Sound
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