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Fence installation cost in the U.S.

Fence installations fall in the range below for typical residential lots. Material is the biggest swing; corners, gates, and slopes are the rest.

Typical national range
$5,000
typical project
Most projects fall between $2,000 and $15,000.
Industry estimate from public-source pricing data. Local prices vary widely — see your metro area below.

Factors that move the price

  • Material per linear foot
    Chain link: cheapest. Wood (pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood): mid, prices vary by species. Vinyl: low-maintenance mid. Aluminum + ornamental iron: high. Composite: highest.
  • Height
    4-ft picket: lowest. 6-ft privacy: standard. 8-ft privacy: needs heavier posts and more material — disproportionate cost jump.
  • Gates + corners
    Gates are 3-5× a linear foot of fence — each one. Corner posts and end posts cost more than line posts. Lots of small zigzags cost more than a long straight run.
  • Terrain + slope
    Sloped lots need either stepped panels or racked panels. Both add labor. Stumps, roots, and rock add per-hour line items.
  • Permit + survey
    Most jurisdictions require a permit and a property-line survey for new fences. The fee is small; the timeline impact is real.

Browse by metro area

Prices in your area can run noticeably above or below the national number depending on labor costs, permitting, and material availability. Pick your metro for a localized range.

Get real quotes for your project

These ranges are useful for ballparking, but the only way to know what your specific project will cost is to get quotes from local contractors. Submit your project once and let them come to you.

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Related guides

Common questions

How long does a wood fence last?
Pressure-treated pine: 15-20 years. Cedar: 20-30. Redwood: 25-30. Composite: 30+ with no painting.