Cost to Install a Fence – 2023 Average Prices

By

Joe Sexton

Joe is the creator of Inch Calculator and has over 20 years of experience in engineering and construction. He holds several degrees and certifications.

Full bio

Average Fence Installation Costs

Putting in a fence can cost anywhere from $2,000 – $8,000 on average, depending on the chosen material, style, height, and length. Understanding the pricing differences between material types and styles can help you effectively choose the right fence for your home.

There are several types of material that can be used for your fence project, and installation varies in price from about $5 – $55 per linear foot. There are a range of aesthetic options including wood, vinyl, aluminum, and chain link.

Fencing is often measured and priced by the linear foot, learn how to calculate linear feet.

Chain Link Fence Cost

Chain link fencing usually ranges from about $5 – $15 per foot in price, depending on the height and style and is the most cost effective material. Chain link is commonly available in 4′, 5′, and 6′ heights, but other heights are available. Chain link is available in several colors, including metallic, green, and brown.

4′ Wood Picket Fence Cost

Wood picket fences are another affordable option, with prices ranging from $5 – $15 per foot on average. Pressure treated, cedar, and redwood are the most common choices for a wood fence,^[1] and they can be left natural or stained/painted to nearly any color.

Pickets are often a decorative choice, but offer less privacy and security than some of the other material options. If you’re installing yourself, estimate the amount of material needed using our fence material calculator.

6′ Wood Privacy Fence Cost

Wood privacy fences are a great material choice when you’re looking to add privacy to your yard. 6′ wood privacy fences range in cost from $8 – $16 per foot depending on the wood choice and style, but the average cost is around $12 per foot.^[2]

There are several styles of privacy fencing available, including solid board, shadowbox, and stockade. Check out our fence material calculator to estimate the material needed for your project. Learn how to install a wood privacy fence.

4′ Vinyl Picket Fence Cost

A 4′ vinyl picket fence often runs $25 – $35 per foot and are a more expensive option than wood. That said, vinyl is beautiful and maintenance-free, and much of the cost can be recouped over the lifetime of the fence by avoiding staining and painting costs. Vinyl is not prone to rot like wood is, so it often lasts longer requiring less repairs.

6′ Vinyl Privacy Fence Cost

Vinyl can also be used for a privacy fence, and usually costs $30 – $55 per foot for the installation.^[3] Again, vinyl is a beautiful product and virtually maintenance-free, but comes at a cost.

Aluminum Fence Cost

Aluminum fences offer an upscale look, are very durable, and are also maintenance-free. They cost $20 – $45 per foot but last a lifetime.^[4] Aluminum is very durable, making it a great option to add security to your property. Aluminum is not prone to rust, making it an excellent alternative to a wrought iron fence.

Fence Installation Labor Costs

While the chosen material is a significant cost factor, labor is also a significant factor in the cost of installation of a fence. Many contractors include the labor in their pricing, but expect to pay about $30 – $50 per hour for each builder on the project.^[5]

The cost of labor varies by geographic location, so the cost could be higher or lower depending on where you live.

Fence Installation Cost Factors

As noted previously, the major cost factors for installing a fence are materials, height, length, and labor costs, but there are some other factors that can affect the price as well. Gates add functionality and allow people to pass through, but they also add cost.

Adding gates will increase the cost of your project by about $400 on average. Fences over 6′ also cost significantly more due to the added structure needed to support them. Taller fences also more often require permits and inspections, you should check with your locality for the requirements in your jurisdiction.

All pricing information on this page is based on average industry costs, and is subject to variance for project-specific materials, labor rates, and requirements.