A Toro STX-26 stump grinder typically costs about $30,000-$42,000 new, with a practical average near $35,000 before tax and delivery. Used prices often fall between $15,000 and $30,000; model year, engine and cutter condition, operating hours, dealer fees, and region drive the final price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New STX-26 | $30,000 | $35,000 | $42,000 | Machine price; options and freight may be extra |
| Used STX-26 | $15,000 | $22,000 | $30,000 | Varies by year, hours, and repair history |
| Rental | $250/day | $350/day | $500/day | Delivery, damage waiver, and taxes may add fees |
| Replacement teeth | $15 each | $25 each | $40 each | Part and labor pricing varies |
What a new Toro STX-26 costs at the dealer
New machine quotes commonly land around $30,000-$42,000, with approximately $35,000 a useful planning figure for a standard configuration. That range reflects dealer pricing differences, available inventory, included attachments, freight, and any setup or delivery charges. Sales tax is additional and depends on the buyer’s location.
Budget roughly $32,000-$46,000 delivered and taxed, depending on local fees and options. A dealer quote should identify whether the price includes freight, setup, warranty coverage, and any included accessories. These items can make two apparently similar prices differ substantially.
Assumptions: U.S. dealer sale, standard machine configuration, ordinary delivery, and no major attachments or financing charges.
How dealer fees and machine components shape the quote
The purchase price is only one line of a complete out-the-door estimate. Freight and setup may be bundled or listed separately, while tax is calculated according to local rules. Ask the dealer to separate each charge so the equipment price can be compared consistently.
| Quote item | Typical range | What changes the amount |
|---|---|---|
| STX-26 machine | $30,000-$42,000 | Dealer, availability, included configuration |
| Freight and setup | $500-$2,000 | Distance, dealer preparation, delivery method |
| Trailer or tie-down gear | $2,000-$6,000 | Trailer capacity, brakes, and condition |
| Sales tax | About $0-$4,000 | Taxable amount and local rate |
| Initial wear parts | $100-$600 | Tooth condition and spare-part selection |
Compare the same package, not just the machine line. A trailer is not necessarily included, and the right capacity depends on the machine, towing vehicle, and applicable weight limits. Confirm the model and any quoted accessories in writing.
Used STX-26 prices by model year and operating hours
Used listings and dealer inventory may range from about $15,000 for an older or heavily used unit to $30,000 for a newer machine in strong condition. Units with fewer than roughly 500 hours and documented service may command a premium; machines approaching or exceeding 1,500 hours usually require closer inspection and can need more immediate maintenance.
Condition matters more than the hour meter alone. Check track wear, hydraulic leaks, cutter wheel play, tooth holders, controls, and engine starting. Request service records and ask whether the quoted price includes repairs, transport, or a limited warranty. A low asking price can become less attractive if teeth, tracks, or hydraulic components need attention.
Which cutter, engine, and access conditions raise the price
For a new unit, options and dealer package choices can move the quote by hundreds or several thousand dollars. For used equipment, wear on the cutting system or tracks can shift value by several thousand dollars, depending on parts and labor. A machine sold with a suitable trailer also costs more than a bare machine, but may reduce the buyer’s separate transport expense.
Site access affects the cost of getting the grinder to a job, rather than usually changing its purchase price. Narrow gates under about 36 inches, steep slopes, and long distances from parking can require extra planning or a different machine. If a job needs a larger grinder or additional crew, the STX-26’s purchase price alone will not represent the full project budget.
Repair estimates should show parts and shop time separately. A shop rate of about $100-$175 per hour is a reasonable budgeting range, but local rates vary and specialized repairs may cost more.
Regional dealer pricing and delivery differences
Prices can run roughly 5%-15% higher in high-cost metro markets than in lower-cost rural areas, although stock and promotions can reverse that pattern. Freight distance, dealer competition, and how quickly a buyer needs delivery may matter more than state borders. Used-equipment prices also reflect local demand from tree services and rental companies.
Get at least three comparable written quotes within a practical delivery radius. Ask each seller to quote the same configuration and show freight, setup, warranty, and tax separately. When comparing distant inventory, include transport costs before treating a lower advertised price as a savings.
Renting an STX-26 versus buying one
Rental rates commonly run about $250-$500 per day, $900-$1,600 per week, or $2,500-$4,500 per month, subject to local availability and rental terms. Delivery, fuel, cleaning, damage protection, and late-return charges may be extra. Some rental shops charge a minimum period or require the customer to arrange transportation.
Renting can cost less when use is occasional; ownership becomes easier to justify with regular work. At a $350 daily rate, 20 rental days total about $7,000 before delivery and other fees. Compare that expense with ownership payments, maintenance, storage, insurance, and resale value rather than comparing rental days with the purchase price alone.
Ownership expenses beyond the STX-26 purchase price
Routine costs include cutting teeth, fluids, filters, track upkeep, and periodic service. A full replacement set of cutting teeth can cost roughly $300-$800 in parts, depending on tooth type and quantity; installation labor may add about $100-$300. Wear varies with wood, soil, stones, and hours of operation, so there is no dependable fixed replacement interval.
Reserve around $500-$1,500 per year for routine maintenance and wear items under moderate use. Heavy commercial use, damaged components, or neglected service can push expenses higher. A warranty may cover eligible defects but generally does not eliminate normal wear, so confirm coverage terms and exclusions before purchase.
Ways to lower the STX-26 price without buying the wrong machine
Ask dealers about prior-year inventory, demonstrator units, and included delivery before negotiating a discount. For used machines, prioritize service records and a mechanical inspection over the lowest advertised number. Compare replacement-part condition and likely repairs against the difference between a used unit and a newer one.
Control the total package and avoid paying for equipment the work does not require. If a trailer is already available and properly rated, do not add another to the quote. Conversely, confirm safe transport and site access before purchase; a bargain machine that cannot reach the work area can lead to added hauling or rental expenses.