How Much Does a Fence Cost in 2026?
Installing a new fence costs $15–$75 per linear foot in 2026, with the national average around $3,500–$8,000 for 150 linear feet. Chain link is the cheapest at $10–$20 per foot; wood is $15–$35; vinyl is $25–$45; aluminum is $30–$55; wrought iron tops out at $35–$75 per foot. DIY savings: 30–50%. Use our fence calculator to estimate posts, pickets, and concrete.
Key facts at a glance
- •Average 2026 fence cost: $15–$75 per linear foot installed
- •150 ft wood fence: $2,250–$5,250 installed
- •150 ft vinyl fence: $3,750–$6,750 installed
- •150 ft chain link: $1,500–$3,000 installed
- •Permit cost: $20–$400 depending on jurisdiction
Fence cost per foot by material
Material is the dominant cost driver. Chain link is cheapest. Vinyl and wood are mid-range. Aluminum, composite, and wrought iron are premium options.
| Material | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
Chain link (4 ft) | $10 | $15 | $20 |
Wood privacy (6 ft) | $15 | $25 | $35 |
Vinyl privacy (6 ft) | $25 | $35 | $45 |
Aluminum (4 ft) | $30 | $42 | $55 |
Composite (6 ft) | $30 | $45 | $60 |
Wrought iron (4 ft) | $35 | $55 | $75 |
Total fence cost by length
A typical residential lot has 150–300 ft of fence perimeter. Backyards alone are usually 80–150 ft.
| Length | Wood | Vinyl | Chain link |
|---|---|---|---|
100 ft | $1.5K | $2.5K | $3.5K |
150 ft | $2.3K | $3.8K | $5.3K |
200 ft | $3.0K | $5.0K | $7.0K |
300 ft | $4.5K | $7.5K | $11K |
What drives fence cost up or down
Beyond material and length, several factors push the total up.
- •Height: 6 ft costs 30% more than 4 ft for wood and vinyl
- •Gates: $200–$1,200 each. Double drive gates: $500–$3,000
- •Slope: gradeable lots add 10–25% labor
- •Tree clearing: $200–$800 per tree
- •Old fence removal: $3–$5 per linear foot
- •Permit: $20–$400
DIY vs hiring a pro
A wood privacy fence is the easiest DIY material. A 150 ft DIY wood fence costs about $1,800–$3,000 in materials. Installed by a pro: $2,250–$5,250. DIY savings: 30–50%.
Time investment: 2–4 weekends for 150 ft if you have help. Setting posts (with concrete) is the hardest stage; install pickets is fast.
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Try Remodel AI freeFrequently asked questions
How much does a 100 ft fence cost?+
Chain link: $1,000–$2,000. Wood: $1,500–$3,500. Vinyl: $2,500–$4,500. Aluminum: $3,000–$5,500. Wrought iron: $3,500–$7,500. All installed by a pro in 2026.
What is the cheapest fence to install?+
Chain link is the cheapest at $10–$20 per foot installed. Wood is a close second at $15–$35 per foot. Both are popular DIY options.
How long does a fence installation take?+
Pros install a 150 ft wood fence in 2–3 days. Vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron: 2–4 days. Chain link: 1–2 days. DIY: 2–4 weekends including post-setting cure time.
Do I need a permit for a fence?+
Most cities require permits for fences over 6 ft tall or in front yards. Permits cost $20–$400. Always check your HOA and city zoning before building.
What's the longest-lasting fence material?+
Aluminum and vinyl last 30–50 years with no maintenance. Wrought iron lasts 50+ years but needs repainting every 5–10. Wood lasts 15–25 years with stain. Chain link lasts 20–30 years.