Fence Cost Calculator
Estimate fencing costs by material, length, and height.
Covers wood, vinyl, chain-link, and aluminum fencing with installation estimates.
Fence installation cost depends on perimeter length, fence type, material, height, gate count, terrain complexity, and regional labor rates. Getting a reliable estimate requires separating material costs from labor costs and accounting for site-specific factors.
Total cost formula: Total Cost = (Material Cost per Linear Foot + Labor Cost per Linear Foot) × Total Perimeter + Gate Costs + Additional Items
Material + labor cost benchmarks (U.S. 2025, installed price):
| Fence Type | Cost per Linear Foot (installed) |
|---|---|
| Chain link (4 ft, galvanized) | $12–$20 |
| Chain link (6 ft) | $16–$28 |
| Wood privacy (6 ft cedar) | $25–$50 |
| Wood picket (4 ft pine) | $15–$30 |
| Vinyl privacy | $30–$55 |
| Aluminum ornamental | $25–$40 |
| Wrought iron | $30–$60 |
| Split rail (2-rail) | $12–$22 |
Gate cost additions:
- Walk gate (4 ft wide): $150–$600 depending on material
- Double drive gate (10–12 ft): $400–$1,500
Terrain and condition surcharges:
- Sloped yard: +10–20%
- Rocky soil (requires auger rental): +$5–$15/linear foot
- Removal of old fence: $3–$7/linear foot
Perimeter formula (rectangular yard): Perimeter = 2 × (Length + Width) Subtract any shared fence sections with neighbors (if they’re contributing cost).
Worked example: Backyard: 80 ft × 60 ft. One side shared (neighbor pays their share). Installing 6-ft cedar privacy fence with 2 walk gates.
Perimeter requiring new fence = 2 × (80 + 60) − 60 = 220 ft Material + labor at $38/ft = 220 × $38 = $8,360 Two walk gates at $350 each = $700 Slight slope surcharge (15%) on labor portion (~$14/ft × 220 × 0.15) = $462 Estimated total: ~$9,522
Always get 3 contractor quotes. Material costs are relatively fixed; labor quotes vary 30–50% between contractors.