Fence Cost Calculator,
materials, labor & gates estimated.

Fence buying guide

Choosing the right fence material: cost, privacy, and maintenance.

Chain link fencing

Chain link is the most affordable fencing option, typically running $15–20 per linear foot installed for a standard 4-foot residential fence. The woven galvanised steel mesh is exceptionally durable — a properly installed chain link fence can last 15–20 years with virtually no maintenance beyond occasional rust-spot treatment.

Pros: Lowest cost, longest lifespan, virtually maintenance-free, excellent for keeping pets and children safely enclosed, transparent so it doesn't block light or sightlines.

Cons: Zero privacy. Not aesthetically appealing in most residential settings. Can look industrial. Not suitable for front-yard applications where curb appeal matters.

Best for: Back yards, dog runs, sports enclosures, commercial properties, and anywhere security and containment are more important than appearance.

Wood fencing

Wood is the most popular residential fencing material in North America, with installed costs typically ranging from $20–35 per linear foot depending on the species (pine, cedar, redwood) and style (privacy, picket, split-rail). Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant; pressure-treated pine is cheaper but requires more diligent sealing.

Pros: Full privacy options, highly customisable (stain, paint, height, style), warm traditional aesthetic, good insulating properties against wind and noise, locally sourced in most regions.

Cons: Requires maintenance every 2–3 years (staining or painting, sealing, replacing warped or rotted boards). Susceptible to insects (termites) in certain climates. Typical lifespan of 15–20 years without diligent upkeep.

Best for: Privacy fences, backyard enclosures, traditional-style homes, properties where the fence will be a visual feature.

Vinyl (PVC) fencing

Vinyl has displaced wood as many homeowners' first choice for privacy fencing because it never needs painting or staining. Installed costs are typically $25–40 per linear foot. The higher upfront cost is offset over the fence's 20–30 year lifespan by near-zero maintenance costs.

Pros: No painting, staining, or sealing required. Resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. Retains colour for decades. Available in many styles that mimic wood grain. Easy to clean with a garden hose.

Cons: Higher upfront cost than wood. Can become brittle in extreme cold (below −10°C / 14°F) and may crack on impact. Fewer colour options than painted wood. Damaged sections must be replaced as full panels.

Best for: Homeowners who want a privacy fence without long-term maintenance commitment. Coastal or humid climates where wood rots quickly.

Aluminium fencing

Aluminium offers the decorative look of wrought iron at a significantly lower price and weight, with installed costs typically ranging from $30–45 per linear foot. It is powder-coated rather than painted, which means the finish is baked on and extremely durable — typically warranted for 20+ years.

Pros: Rust-proof (unlike steel or iron), lightweight, elegant ornamental appearance, available in many colours via powder coating. Virtually maintenance-free. Good for sloped terrain as panels rack easily.

Cons: Semi-transparent (not suitable for privacy fencing). More expensive than chain link or wood. Can dent or bend with significant impact. Not suitable for containment of large, powerful dogs.

Best for: Front yards and decorative boundary fencing, pool enclosures (where visibility is required by safety codes), historic-style homes.

Wrought iron fencing

Wrought iron is the premium option for residential fencing, with installed costs typically $45–60+ per linear foot. Modern wrought iron is typically fabricated from mild steel and powder-coated, or custom forged for higher-end applications. Properly maintained, a wrought iron fence can last a lifetime.

Pros: Exceptional durability and strength. Timeless aesthetic that adds significant curb appeal and property value. Highly customisable (heights, finials, patterns). Structurally superior to all alternatives.

Cons: Highest cost of all fence types. Requires periodic rust treatment and repainting (every 5–10 years depending on climate). Heavy, making installation labour-intensive. No privacy.

Best for: High-value properties, historic homes, decorative boundary fencing, applications where aesthetics and longevity are the priority over budget.

What drives fence installation costs?

The estimates in this calculator are based on national averages for materials and labour. Your actual quote may differ significantly based on:

• Region: Labour rates vary enormously by location. Urban areas and high cost-of-living regions (California, New York, Pacific Northwest) can be 30–60% above the national average; rural areas may be 20–30% below.
• Terrain: Flat lawns are straightforward. Rocky soil requires specialised post-hole equipment (jackhammers, core drills) that adds significant cost. Sloped ground requires stepped or racked panel configurations.
• Existing fence removal: Removing and disposing of an old fence typically adds $3–8 per linear foot to the project.
• Permits: Many municipalities require building permits for fences over a certain height (commonly 6 feet). Permit costs range from $50–$200 depending on your jurisdiction.
• Property lines: Survey costs ($400–$700 for a boundary survey) may be required to legally confirm placement, especially for shared-boundary fences.

Getting the most accurate quote

This calculator provides a starting budget estimate, not a final price. To get an accurate project cost:

• Get at least 3 quotes from local licensed fence contractors.
• Ask each contractor to itemise materials, labour, gate hardware, and any site-preparation costs separately.
• Check that all contractors are licensed, bonded, and carry liability insurance.
• Call 811 (USA) or your national "call before you dig" service before any post holes are dug — underground utility lines are a serious safety hazard.
• Check your HOA rules and local building codes before finalising material and height choices.