Fence Cost Guide: Factors, Materials, and Savings Tips
Average Fence Cost
The average cost of a fence is $3,930, ranging from $1,720 to $6,140. The primary factors influencing the cost are length, height, material, and labor.
Cost by Linear Foot
The cost per linear foot of fence ranges from $16 to $40, with an average of $28. A longer fence requires more materials and labor, resulting in a higher overall cost.
Cost by Lot Size
The average cost of a fence for a one-acre lot is $23,350, with a range of $13,340 to $33,360. For a one-quarter-acre lot, the average cost is $5,840.
Cost by Material
- Wood: $15-$34 per linear foot, with an average of $25
- Vinyl: $25-$42 per linear foot, with an average of $33
- Metal: $21-$67 per linear foot, with an average of $44
- Chain Link: $8-$40 per linear foot, with an average of $24
- Composite: $17-$43 per linear foot, with an average of $30
Cost by Labor
The average labor cost for fence installation is $35 per hour, or $11 per linear foot. In some areas, labor costs can be as high as $17 per linear foot.
Factors Influencing Fence Cost
- Length: The longer the fence, the higher the cost.
- Height: Taller fences require more materials.
- Material: Premium materials like metal or composite cost more than chain link or vertical wood fences.
- Slope: Building a fence on a slope incurs additional labor charges.
- Fence Removal: Removing an old fence costs about $5 per linear foot, plus disposal fees.
- Permits: Fence permits can cost between $20 and $60 per permit.
Additional Fence Cost Factors
- Tree Removal: Removing trees for fence installation can cost between $250 and $1,730 per tree.
- Yard Grading: Grading the property for a fence can cost between $1,000 and $3,200.
- Staining and Painting: Staining or painting a fence costs between $4 and $8 per linear foot.
- Gates: Adding a gate to a fence costs an average of $225.
Fence Styles and Costs
- Vertical Wood: $23-$40 per linear foot, with an average of $31
- Horizontal Wood: $50-$70 per linear foot, with an average of $60
- Decorative Fence: $45-$55 per linear foot, with an average of $50
- Ranch or Split-Rail: $12-$17 per linear foot, with an average of $14
- Post-and-Rail Fence: $9-$15 per linear foot, with an average of $12
- Picket Fence: $20-$31 per linear foot, with an average of $26
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Building your own fence can save on labor costs, with an average cost of $22 per linear foot. However, it requires tools and construction skills.
Ways to Save on Fence Costs
- Share the cost: Split the cost of a fence with a neighbor if it’s on a property line.
- Build in the off-season: Contractors often offer discounts during fall and winter.
- Remove the old fence yourself: This can reduce labor costs.
- Use alternative fencing: Consider evergreen hedges or bamboo as privacy screens.
- Use fewer materials: Choose picket fences or ranch-style fences, which require less materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is 200 feet of fence? Approximately $5,000
- What is the cheapest fence to install? Chain link fence
- How much should I spend on fencing? Around $28 per linear foot
