Planning a fence project? This guide walks you through typical costs for every major fence material, from chain link to cedar, plus labor, gates, and extras. Use our fence cost calculator for a quick estimate tailored to your project.
Why Fence Costs Vary So Much
Fence prices depend on material, height, length, terrain, and where you live. A simple 4-foot chain link fence might run $8–$12 per linear foot installed, while a 6-foot cedar privacy fence can reach $30–$45 per foot. Understanding these factors helps you set a realistic budget and compare contractor quotes.
Average Cost by Fence Type
Here are typical installed costs per linear foot for common fence types. Prices include materials and professional labor unless noted.
| Fence Type | Cost Per Linear Foot (Installed) | 100 ft Project |
|---|---|---|
| Chain link | $8–$18 | $800–$1,800 |
| Wood (pressure-treated) | $15–$25 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Wood (cedar) | $22–$35 | $2,200–$3,500 |
| Vinyl | $20–$40 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Aluminum | $25–$40 | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Composite | $30–$45 | $3,000–$4,500 |
| Wrought iron | $35–$55 | $3,500–$5,500 |
What Drives the Price Up or Down
Material Choice
Chain link is the least expensive option. Wood and vinyl sit in the middle. Composite and wrought iron cost the most. Each material has different life expectancies and maintenance needs, so factor that into your long-term budget.
Height
Taller fences cost more because they need more material and often deeper posts. A 4-foot fence costs less per foot than a 6- or 8-foot fence of the same material.
Length and Gates
Longer runs spread out fixed costs like equipment and permits. Gates add $200–$800 or more each, depending on size and material.
Terrain
Rocky or sloped land requires more labor and sometimes special techniques. Expect 10–30% higher costs on difficult sites.
Location
Labor and material prices vary by region. Urban areas often cost more than rural ones. See our fence cost by state guide for regional breakdowns.
Material-Only vs. Installed Pricing
If you install the fence yourself, you pay for materials only. Labor typically adds 40–60% to the total. For a wood fence that costs $15 per foot installed, materials alone might run $8–$10 per foot. Use our fence cost calculator and toggle labor on or off to see the difference.
Hidden Costs to Plan For
- Permits. Many areas require permits for fences over a certain height. Budget $50–$200.
- Survey. If property lines are unclear, a survey can cost $300–$1,000.
- Removal. Replacing an old fence? Fence removal cost runs $3–$7 per linear foot in many areas.
- Staining or sealing. Wood fences need stain or seal every few years; factor $1–$3 per square foot.
Cost by Project Size
Small projects cost more per foot because contractors have minimum charges and setup time. A 50-foot fence might run $18–$22 per foot, while a 200-foot run could drop to $14–$18 per foot for the same material. Always ask if there is a minimum project size or trip charge.
| Project Length | Typical $/ft (Wood) | Typical Total |
|---|---|---|
| 50 ft | $18–$28 | $900–$1,400 |
| 100 ft | $16–$26 | $1,600–$2,600 |
| 150 ft | $15–$24 | $2,250–$3,600 |
| 200 ft | $14–$22 | $2,800–$4,400 |
When to Hire a Pro vs. DIY
DIY saves money if you have basic carpentry skills and the right tools. Wood and chain link are the most DIY-friendly. Vinyl and aluminum require precise cutting and special hardware. Wrought iron and composite usually need professional installation. Sloped or rocky terrain often benefits from a pro. Use our fence cost calculator to compare material-only vs. full install costs.
How to Save on Fence Cost
Shop around. Get at least three written quotes. See our tips on how to get multiple fence quotes. Consider DIY for straightforward projects if you have the skills. Choose pressure-treated wood instead of cedar for a lower upfront cost. Install in the off-season when contractors may offer discounts. If your budget is tight, explore low-cost fence options.
Financing Options
Large projects can be expensive. Many homeowners use home equity loans, personal loans, or contractor financing. Read our fence financing guide for details on payment plans and loans.
Typical Project Examples
Here are real-world examples to anchor your expectations. A 75-foot backyard wood privacy fence with one gate: materials and labor roughly $1,800–$2,800. A 120-foot vinyl fence with two gates: $4,000–$6,000. A 200-foot chain link fence for a rural boundary: $1,800–$3,200. A 50-foot front yard aluminum picket fence: $1,500–$2,400. Your numbers will vary, but these ranges help you gauge whether a contractor's quote is in the ballpark.
When to Revisit Your Budget
If quotes come in higher than expected, you have options. Switch to a cheaper material—pressure-treated wood instead of cedar, or chain link instead of wood. Reduce height where privacy is not critical. Do part of the work yourself (e.g., remove the old fence, stain the new one). Phase the project—fence the most important section first, add the rest later. Or get more quotes; sometimes the fourth or fifth contractor has better pricing. Use our fence cost calculator to model different scenarios.
FAQs
What is the cheapest fence to install?
Chain link is usually the least expensive, at about $8–$18 per linear foot installed. Wood (pressure-treated) is the next cheapest at $15–$25 per foot.
How much does a 100-foot fence cost?
For a 100-foot run, expect $800–$1,800 for chain link, $1,500–$3,500 for wood, and $2,000–$4,000 for vinyl. Prices depend on height and quality.
Does fence cost include gates?
Most quotes are for the fence line only. Gates are often priced separately at $200–$800 or more per gate.
Is it cheaper to build a fence yourself?
Yes. DIY installation can cut total cost by 40–60% since you avoid labor. You still pay for materials, tools, and your time.