Fence Cost Calculator
Use this fence cost calculator to estimate the total cost of building a fence based on length, height, and material type. Designed for homeowners, DIY builders, and contractors using standard US measurements to quickly plan fencing projects and calculate realistic budgets.
× (Material + Labor) Cost per linear ft
Wood Privacy $15–$30/lin ft · Vinyl $20–$40/lin ft · Chain Link $10–$20/lin ft · Aluminum $20–$35/lin ft · Wrought Iron $25–$50/lin ft · Split Rail $12–$20/lin ft (installed)
Estimates based on 2026 US average pricing at 6 ft height. Actual costs vary by region. Always get 3 quotes.
How Does the Fence Cost Calculator Work?
This fence cost calculator estimates the total cost of installing a fence based on your linear footage, fence height, material type, and whether you hire a contractor or install it yourself. It uses 2026 US average pricing across 6 popular fence materials.
Steps:
- Enter your total fence length in linear feet. To find this, measure the perimeter of the area you want to fence (or just one side if partial).
- Select your fence height — 6 feet is standard for privacy fences.
- Select your fence material from 6 popular options.
- Choose DIY or Contractor for labor.
- Get instant results — total cost, cost per linear foot, material cost, and labor cost.
Measure the total perimeter of your property or yard that needs fencing. Subtract any existing fence sections you're keeping. Don't forget to account for gates — each gate adds $150–$600 depending on size and material.
Fence Cost by Type (2026)
Here's a full breakdown of 2026 US average installed costs per linear foot for all 6 fence types at standard 6 ft height.
| Fence Type | Material $/lin ft | Installed $/lin ft | 150 lin ft Total | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Split Rail | $5 – $8 | $12 – $20 | $1,800 – $3,000 | 15–20 yrs |
| Chain Link | $5 – $10 | $10 – $20 | $1,500 – $3,000 | 15–20 yrs |
| Wood Privacy | $8 – $15 | $15 – $30 | $2,250 – $4,500 | 10–15 yrs |
| Aluminum | $10 – $18 | $20 – $35 | $3,000 – $5,250 | 30–50 yrs |
| Vinyl / PVC | $12 – $22 | $20 – $40 | $3,000 – $6,000 | 20–30 yrs |
| Wrought Iron | $15 – $25 | $25 – $50 | $3,750 – $7,500 | 50+ yrs |
*150 linear ft = standard residential yard (~40×35 ft). Costs at 6 ft height. Gates are additional.
Chain link is the cheapest durable option. Wood privacy fences are the most popular for backyards. Vinyl is the best low-maintenance option — never needs painting or staining and lasts 20–30 years. Wrought iron is the premium choice with 50+ year lifespan.
Example Calculation
You want to install a wood privacy fence, 150 linear feet at 6 ft height, hired contractor.
150 × $8 = $1,200 | 150 × $15 = $2,250
Material: $1,200 – $2,250
150 × $7 = $1,050 | 150 × $15 = $2,250
Labor: $1,050 – $2,250
$2,250 – $4,500
Step 4 — Cost per linear foot:$15 – $30 per linear foot
Factors That Affect Fence Cost
Fence Height
Taller fences require more material and deeper posts. Going from 6 ft to 8 ft adds approximately 20–30% to material costs and slightly increases labor. Most privacy fence pricing is quoted at standard 6 ft height.
Gates
Gates are priced separately from fence panels. A standard walk gate costs $150–$400 installed. A double drive gate costs $400–$1,200 installed depending on material and width.
Terrain & Slope
Sloped ground requires either racking (panels follow the slope) or stepped installation. Both add $2–$5 per linear foot to labor costs. Rocky soil requiring special post installation can add $5–$15 per post.
Old Fence Removal
Removing an existing fence adds $3–$8 per linear foot. For 150 linear feet, that's an extra $450–$1,200 before new fence installation begins.
Permits
Many municipalities require permits for fences over 6 feet or in front yards. Permits typically cost $50–$200. Always check local zoning laws — some areas also have HOA restrictions on fence type, height, and color.
Fence contractor pricing varies widely. Always get 3 itemized quotes. Ask each to separate material, labor, gate, post installation, and any old fence removal costs.