Fence Installation Costs by Material: Wood, Vinyl, Chain Link, and More

A new fence typically costs $1,500-$10,000 for an average yard, with most homeowners paying $3,000-$6,000. The primary cost driver is material choice, followed by fence height and total linear footage.

Chain link fencing: $5-$15 per linear foot installed. Pros: cheapest option, very durable, low maintenance, long lifespan. Cons: no privacy, industrial look. Adding privacy slats ($3-$5/ft extra) improves aesthetics somewhat.

Wood fencing (cedar or pressure-treated pine): $15-$35 per linear foot. Pros: classic look, good privacy, customizable, moderate cost. Cons: requires staining every 2-3 years, susceptible to rot and insects, 15-20 year lifespan.

Vinyl/PVC fencing: $20-$40 per linear foot. Pros: virtually zero maintenance, won't rot or warp, long lifespan (30+ years), clean appearance. Cons: higher upfront cost, limited color options, can crack in extreme cold.

Aluminum fencing: $25-$45 per linear foot. Pros: elegant appearance, no rust, low maintenance, long lifespan. Cons: no privacy (open design), not suitable for containing small pets, dents more easily than steel.

Wrought iron fencing: $30-$60+ per linear foot. Pros: maximum durability, highest-end appearance, longest lifespan (50+ years). Cons: most expensive, requires periodic painting, no privacy, heavy.

Composite fencing: $25-$45 per linear foot. Pros: wood-like appearance, no maintenance, won't rot or warp, eco-friendly (often made from recycled materials). Cons: expensive, limited styles, can fade over time.

Additional costs to budget for: permit fees ($50-$200), gate installation ($200-$600 per gate), old fence removal ($500-$1,500), property survey ($300-$600 if boundaries are unclear), and post-hole preparation in rocky soil ($200-$500 extra).

Property line rules: most municipalities require fences to be set 2-6 inches inside your property line. The 'finished' side must face outward in many areas. Check local codes before installation to avoid costly corrections.

DIY can save 30-50% on labor but isn't recommended for most homeowners. Post depth, spacing, and alignment require precision. A poorly installed fence fails quickly and costs more to fix than professional installation.