Fence Cost Estimator

Compare wood, vinyl, and chain link — DIY materials versus professionally installed — for any fence length.

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2026 Fence Cost Ranges

Prices vary by region, lumber market, and contractor demand, but the table below reflects typical national ranges for a standard-height fence including one gate.

Fence typeDIY materials/ftInstalled/ft150 ft installed range
Wood privacy (6 ft)$12–$22$25–$45$3,750–$6,750
Vinyl privacy (6 ft)$18–$35$30–$60$4,500–$9,000
Chain link (4 ft)$7–$15$15–$30$2,250–$4,500

The "installed" price includes labor, post-hole digging, concrete, and cleanup. The "DIY materials" price is what you'd pay at a home center or lumber yard for all the parts — posts, rails, pickets or panels, concrete, and hardware — without labor. DIY typically saves 40–50% but takes a full weekend or more for a 150 ft fence.

What Drives the Cost Up or Down

Higher end: slopes or rocky soil (more digging), premium lumber (cedar vs. pressure-treated pine), taller fences (8 ft), decorative post caps, extra gates, and permit fees. Lower end: flat terrain, standard pressure-treated pine, straight runs with few corners, and off-season scheduling (late fall/early spring). Gates add $150–$500 each depending on width and material.

Lifetime cost matters: Wood needs staining or sealing every 2–3 years ($1–3/ft each time); vinyl needs only a hose-down. Over 20 years, vinyl's lower maintenance often makes up for its higher upfront cost. Chain link is cheapest on both fronts but offers no privacy.

Get the Exact Material List

Once you know which material fits your budget, get the precise shopping list from the dedicated calculators: wood fence, vinyl fence, or chain link. For a deeper comparison of durability, maintenance, and aesthetics, see the fence materials guide.

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