Quick Answer: Stump grinding in Chicago and suburbs costs $11 per inch of diameter with a $400 minimum. Most homeowners in Chicagoland pay $400–$550 for a typical residential stump.
Chicago Area Stump Grinding Prices (2026)
| Stump Diameter | Average Cost | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Under 37" (minimum applies) | $400 | $400–$440 |
| 40" | $440 | $400–$520 |
| 48" | $528 | $480–$620 |
| 60" | $660 | $600–$780 |
Chicago-Specific Considerations
Seasonal Availability
Chicago winters are genuine—frozen ground from December through February can make stump grinding difficult or impossible for large stumps. The grinding wheel can handle cold weather, but the ground being frozen solid makes depth grinding harder. Most Chicagoland contractors are fully booked in spring (April–May) as everyone who waited out winter schedules their jobs. Book early.
Common Tree Species
Chicago's urban forest features many hardwood species that increase grinding cost:
- Oak – Very common, adds 15–20% to grinding time
- Elm – Dutch elm disease killed many; stumps may be decayed (faster grind)
- Ash – Emerald ash borer has left many dead ash stumps; often decayed
- Maple – Standard hardwood rate
- Honey locust – Common street tree; moderate grinding difficulty
Ash Stump Glut
The emerald ash borer has killed millions of ash trees across Illinois. If you have an ash stump, it may already be well into decay—which means faster, cheaper grinding. Many Chicagoland contractors have deep experience with ash stumps and can give accurate quotes quickly.
City of Chicago vs. Suburbs
| Area | Typical Rate |
|---|---|
| City of Chicago | $12–$14/inch |
| North Shore (Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka) | $11–$13/inch |
| West suburbs (Oak Park, Naperville, Wheaton) | $10–$12/inch |
| South suburbs | $10–$12/inch |
| Lake County / McHenry County | $10–$12/inch |
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