If you're getting quotes for stump grinding in Northeast Ohio in 2026, the numbers should land in a fairly narrow band. Anything wildly above or below that band is worth a second look.
The headline number: $2–$5 per inch
Almost every stump grinding contractor in Ohio prices the same way: by the diameter of the stump in inches, measured at ground level. Typical 2026 rates:
- $2.50–$3.50 per diameter inch for straightforward residential jobs with good access $4.00–$5.00 per diameter inch for tight-access, urban yards, or stumps near utilities, fences, or hardscape $100–$150 minimum per visit — most contractors will not roll a grinder for less
A 14-inch maple stump in Elyria, Ohio? Expect roughly $35–$50 if it is part of a multi-stump job, $100–$150 if it is the only one (the minimum kicks in).
What changes the price
Tree species
Hardwoods (oak, hickory, maple) grind slower than softwoods (pine, willow, poplar). Some contractors charge a 10–15% premium for the hardest species.
Above-ground height
A flush-cut stump is fastest. A 3-foot-tall stump adds time. If your tree was just felled and the stump is tall, ask the tree service to flush-cut it first — usually free if they are already on site.
Grind depth
Standard is 4–6 inches below grade for re-sodding. If you need 12–16 inches (full landscaping, replanting), expect a 25–40% upcharge.
Number of stumps
Volume discounts kick in at 3+ stumps. Asking for 10 stumps in one visit can drop the per-stump price by 30–40%.
Cleanup and chip removal
Most quotes leave chips on site — they pile up fast. Hauling them off adds $50–$200 depending on volume.
Access
Side-yard gates narrower than 36 inches, second-story balconies, fencing, and pool surrounds all add time. A grinder that has to be carried versus rolled is going to cost more.
What stump grinding does NOT include
Most quotes do not include:
- Refilling the hole with topsoil Re-seeding or sodding Removing the lateral roots (those rot in place) Treating for pests like carpenter ants (rare but worth asking about)
Ask each contractor what their quote includes. If two quotes look identical on price but one includes hole backfill and the other doesn't, that is a $50–$150 swing.
Stump grinding vs. complete removal — when each makes sense
Grinding is right when you are regrading the lawn, planting grass, landscaping over the spot, or just want the eyesore gone.
Complete removal is right when you are building a foundation, pouring a patio or driveway, installing a pool or septic field, or replanting a tree within 6 feet of the original.
Removal costs 2–3x grinding because it requires an excavator, debris haul-off, and backfill. Plan on $250–$800+ per stump for full removal.
Stump grinding cost by Northeast Ohio county
| County | Typical per-inch rate | Notes Lorain | $3.00–$4.50 | Avon Lake and Sheffield Lake trend higher (tighter lots, more hardscape) Medina | $2.50–$3.50 | Hinckley, Granger, Brunswick — larger lots, easier access, ~10–15% cheaper Huron | $2.50–$3.25 | Mostly rural, large, easy-access; volume pricing common Erie | $3.00–$4.00 | Mix of lake-corridor (higher) and rural (lower) Ashland | $2.50–$3.50 | Rural pricing dominates |
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Get an honest quote
Apex Land Services grinds stumps across all 12 of our Northeast Ohio counties. Same-week scheduling is standard, and we do not have a hidden truck fee or fuel surcharge — the price you see is the price you pay.
Call (440) 839-8379 or request a quote on our contact page. For other clearing work, see our Ohio land clearing cost guide.