On HomeGuide's national pages, a typical stump costs $100 to $400 to remove, and tearing down a house $6,000 to $25,000. In San Antonio, demolition requests go through historic review, and oaks need care because of oak wilt.
All prices on this page are national ranges from HomeGuide, not quotes from us. In San Antonio, limestone, caliche, black clay, access and haul distance decide where a job really lands. Figures checked in October 2026.
What does it cost to remove tree stumps?
HomeGuide lists removing a stump at $100 to $400 on average. Grinders charge $2 to $6 for each inch across the stump, and most set a minimum of $80 to $160. Pulling stumps with a backhoe costs $80 to $190 apiece, and the backhoe visit itself has a $150 to $350 minimum.
Should I grind the stumps or dig them out?
Grind stumps under lawn, and dig them out where something will be built. Grinding leaves roots to rot slowly, which is fine under grass. Under a slab, a drive or a pool, the stump and main roots come out so they do not leave a soft spot.
What about 20 mesquite stumps, or one big oak stump?
The per-stump price drops as the count goes up. HomeGuide lists the first stump at $120 to $400 and each extra at $30 to $60, and a huge stump at $300 to $800. For an oak, remember that fresh cuts and wounds on nearby oaks should be painted, and February through June is the riskiest time for oak wilt.
Can I burn brush or bury it?
Burning depends on the county and the city, and Bexar County and its neighbors often have burn bans in dry weather, so check first. Burying brush under anything you will build on is a mistake, because it rots and the ground sinks. Mulching it in place or hauling it are better.
Can an excavator remove boulders or buried concrete?
Yes. Limestone boulders, ledges, old footings and buried concrete come out with an excavator and a breaker. HomeGuide lists rock removal at $50 to $200 per cubic yard when it stays on site and $220 to $250 per cubic yard when hauled off. Rock can often be stacked as a wall or border instead.
What does it cost to tear down a shed or barn?
HomeGuide lists tearing down a detached garage or similar outbuilding at $1,000 to $5,000, including removal of the debris. Big barns on acreage cost more. Power and water to the building are disconnected first.
What does it cost to demolish a house in San Antonio?
To demolish a house costs $4 to $10 per square foot, or $6,000 to $25,000 on average, by HomeGuide's national figures, and up to $25 per square foot with asbestos or lead. In San Antonio, Development Services issues demolition permits and the Office of Historic Preservation reviews demolition requests, so older homes can take longer to clear.
| House size | HomeGuide national range |
|---|---|
| 1,500 sq ft | $6,000 to $15,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $8,000 to $20,000 |
| Leaving the foundation | $3 to $7 per sq ft |
To get a number for your own site, have us walk it first; the price comes in a written quote. Call or text (210) 796-2675.