Fence Installation Cost Estimator
Enter the fence length and material for professionally installed pricing.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Installed fence = per-foot rate × length + gates:
- Chain link (~$18/ft): cheapest, zero privacy, lasts decades.
- Wood privacy (~$32/ft): the classic — needs staining every 3–5 years.
- Composite (~$48/ft): wood look, no staining, higher upfront.
- Vinyl (~$55/ft): maintenance-free, pricier panels.
- Aluminum (~$65/ft): ornamental look, great for pools and front yards.
- Gates (~$350 each): hardware and framing make gates disproportionately pricey.
- DIY: materials run ~50% of installed cost — fences are very DIY-able if you can dig straight post holes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does fence installation cost?
Roughly $18/ft chain link, $32 wood, $48 composite, $55 vinyl, $65 aluminum — installed, including labor.
How much does a gate add?
About $350 per gate — hardware, framing, and alignment make gates pricey per foot.
Can I install a fence myself?
Yes — materials are ~50% of the installed price. The skill is straight lines and plumb posts, not strength.
Do I need a permit?
Often yes, plus HOA approval. Height limits (usually 6 ft back, 4 ft front) are strictly enforced.
How do I find my property line?
Get a survey ($300–700). Building even a foot over the line can force a rebuild.
What about buried utilities?
Call 811 (free) before digging — hitting a line is dangerous and you're liable.
Wood vs vinyl fence?
Wood: cheaper now, needs staining every 3–5 years. Vinyl: ~70% more upfront, nearly zero maintenance.
How long do fences last?
Wood 15–20 yrs (with care), chain link 20+, vinyl/aluminum 25–30 yrs.
Does a fence add home value?
Modest — maybe 50% of cost. Buyers with dogs and kids pay a premium, though.
Who pays for a shared fence?
Usually split with the neighbor — get the agreement in writing before work starts.