How Much Does It Cost to Build a Fence?

Installing a Fence: Your Complete Guide to Costs and Considerations in 2025

Installing a fence is one of the easiest ways to instantly boost your home’s privacy, safety, and curb appeal. Whether you’re trying to keep pets in, keep nosy neighbors out, or simply define your property line, a well-built fence can completely transform your outdoor space.

But before you dive into a project, it’s important to understand that fence costs can vary a lot. The final price depends on the type of materials you choose, the length of the fence, labor costs in your area, and even the slope of your yard. A simple chain link fence might be budget-friendly, while a custom cedar privacy fence with a gate could cost several times more.

So how much does it really cost to build a fence in 2025? What should you expect when budgeting for your project?

Before you pick up a shovel or call a contractor, here’s what you should know.

What’s the Average Cost to Build a Fence in 2025?

If you're planning a new fence this year, one of the first questions you'll probably ask is: “How much is this going to cost me?” While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, we can give you a solid estimate to help you plan.

In 2025, the average fence installation cost in the U.S. ranges from $15 to $35 per linear foot, depending on the materials, labor, and complexity of the project. On the low end, you might spend as little as $10 per foot for basic chain link fencing. On the high end, a decorative wrought iron or custom wood fence could run up to $60 or more per foot.

Example: Average Cost for a Typical Backyard

Most residential fences are around 150 to 200 linear feet in total length. Using the average per-foot cost, here’s a ballpark estimate:

• Budget build (chain link or basic wood): $1,500–$3,000

• Mid-range build (vinyl or higher-quality wood): $3,000–$6,000

• Premium build (wrought iron, composite, custom work): $6,000–$12,000+

  
  

Of course, these prices are just averages. Your actual fence cost per foot will depend on several things, including the material you choose, local labor rates, and whether the job includes extras like gates, post caps, or staining.

If you're in a higher-cost area like San Diego, expect to pay a bit more due to higher contractor demand and material prices. But the good news? A well-built fence can add long-term value to your property while giving you peace of mind.

Cost Breakdown by Fence Material

When it comes to fence pricing, the material you choose is the biggest cost driver. Some options are more affordable and practical, while others offer premium aesthetics and long-term durability. Here's a breakdown of the most common materials used in residential fencing and how much they typically cost per linear foot.

Wood Fence Cost

Wood fences are classic, versatile, and perfect for creating a warm, natural look in your yard. Popular choices include:

• Pressure-treated pine – the most affordable option

• Cedar – a step up in quality and resistance to rot

• Redwood – premium, long-lasting, and beautiful

  
  

You can expect to pay between $15 and $35 per linear foot for a wood fence, depending on the type of wood and whether it’s pre-stained or custom-built. Keep in mind that privacy fences made of wood often fall on the higher end of that range due to added height and panels.

Vinyl Fence Cost

If you're looking for a low-maintenance fence that still looks clean and modern, vinyl is a great choice. It doesn’t rot, warp, or require painting, making it a popular long-term investment for homeowners.

Vinyl fencing typically costs $20 to $40 per linear foot, and while the upfront price may be higher than wood, the savings in maintenance make it attractive for many San Diego homeowners.

Chain Link Fence Cost

Chain link fences are among the most affordable fencing options out there. They’re not the most private, but they get the job done for pet containment, property boundaries, or backyard security.

Expect to pay around $10 to $20 per linear foot. You can add vinyl coating or privacy slats for a bit more cost but also better function and aesthetics. This is a popular pick for budget-conscious families.

Aluminum and Wrought Iron Fence Cost

For a decorative, upscale look, aluminum and wrought iron fences add elegance and curb appeal. They're ideal for front yards, pool enclosures, or homes with a more classic architectural style.

Costs range from $25 to $60 or more per linear foot, especially for custom designs. These fences are extremely durable and require very little upkeep, though they often come with higher installation costs due to weight and labor.

Composite and Bamboo Fence Cost

If sustainability is a priority, composite and bamboo fencing offer eco-friendly alternatives that don’t sacrifice style. Composite is made from recycled plastics and wood fibers, while bamboo gives a tropical, modern aesthetic.

Prices range from $20 to $45 per linear foot, depending on the brand and installation method. Composite fencing is known for its long lifespan and resistance to rot, while bamboo is great for privacy screens or accent walls in outdoor spaces.

Each material brings something different to the table and your choice depends on your goals, budget, and maintenance preferences. Whether you want something budget-friendly or you’re ready to invest in long-term value, there’s a fence option that fits.

How Much Does Fence Installation Labor Cost?

Once you've picked your fencing material, the next major cost to consider is labor. While the material might seem like the bigger investment, installation labor can make up 30–50% of your total fence budget, especially if your project is complex or large.

Hourly vs. Per-Foot Pricing

Most fence contractors charge either by the hour or by the linear foot. In 2025, the national average labor cost is around $30 to $75 per hour or $5 to $20 per linear foot. The pricing varies depending on your location, contractor experience, and the difficulty of the job.

In areas like San Diego, where labor costs tend to run a bit higher, it's common to see professional installers charge on the higher end of that range especially if permits or slope adjustments are involved.

DIY vs. Professional: Which Is Cheaper?

It’s tempting to save money by building your fence yourself and if you’re handy, it can be a rewarding project. But DIY fence installation comes with its own costs: time, tools, energy, and the possibility of making expensive mistakes. Let’s break it down:

DIY Pros:

• Save on labor costs

• Total control over the project timeline

• Personal satisfaction of doing it yourself

  
  

DIY Cons:

• Requires specialized tools and lots of physical work

• Mistakes can lead to wasted materials or repairs

• You may still need permits and property line verifications

  
  

Unless you're experienced with construction or have a very simple, small yard, hiring a licensed fence contractor often results in a faster, safer, and more polished final product. Plus, pros are more familiar with local codes and zoning laws, which can help you avoid costly headaches.

How Terrain and Complexity Affect Labor Costs

Your yard's layout plays a major role in how much labor costs. A flat, open backyard? Easy. But if your property has uneven ground, rocks, trees, or existing fencing that needs removal, expect to pay more for the extra effort and time required.

Other complexity factors that drive up labor cost:

• Installing multiple gates

• Adding custom features or decorative panels

• Digging into hard soil or concrete

• Working in tight or awkward spaces

  
  

In short, the more prep and precision your project needs, the higher the labor cost will be. But with the right contractor, you’ll get a fence that’s sturdy, level, and built to last.

Is it cheaper to build your own fence or hire someone?

In most cases, building your own fence is cheaper upfront but only if you already have the tools, skills, and time. If not, hiring a professional can actually save money (and stress) in the long run.

Other Factors That Affect Fence Pricing

Even after you’ve settled on the material and labor, there are still several hidden costs that can affect your overall fence budget. From height and gates to terrain and teardown, these extras are easy to overlook but they can add up fast.

Fence Height Makes a Big Difference

The taller the fence, the more materials you’ll need and that means more money. A standard residential fence is usually 4 to 6 feet tall, but if you want extra privacy or security, you might go up to 8 feet. Just keep in mind that taller fences often require stronger posts, deeper digging, and sometimes city permits, all of which bump up the price.

Adding Gates? Expect Extra Costs

Gates are essential, especially for driveways, walkways, or pet access. But they’re more than just a swinging panel; gates require hinges, latches, reinforced framing, and sometimes custom sizing.

Here’s a quick cost range:

• Standard walk gate: $150–$500

• Driveway gate (manual): $500–$1,500+

• Automated gate: $2,000 and up

  
  

The more gates you add or the more complex their design, the higher the overall fence installation cost.

Terrain, Slopes, and Rocks = More Work

Got a sloped yard or rocky soil? That’s where things can get tricky. Uneven ground usually requires step-down fencing, extra digging, and adjustments to maintain level posts. Rocky terrain might mean using power tools or even bringing in machinery to break through the soil.

This is where labor and material waste can climb quickly, especially if your contractor hits unexpected obstacles.

Site Preparation and Old Fence Removal

Before your new fence goes up, your yard may need some prep. That could mean:

• Clearing shrubs or brush

• Removing old fencing

• Leveling out ground

• Marking property lines

  
  

Fence removal can cost $3 to $6 per linear foot, depending on the material and whether it needs to be hauled away. Be sure to ask your contractor if cleanup is included in the quote; some don’t factor it in unless you ask.

Local Material Availability and Delivery

Finally, don’t forget about supply chain factors. If you’re ordering specialty materials or live in an area where certain fencing types aren’t commonly stocked, you might see a bump in price for delivery fees or custom orders. This is especially relevant in 2025, where material costs and availability can still fluctuate depending on demand.

In short, the final cost of your fence depends on more than just wood vs. vinyl. Terrain impact, gate installation, and site prep can all drive up the price, so it pays to get a detailed quote that includes all these extras before your project starts.

Regional Fence Costs: What Should San Diego Homeowners Expect?

Living in San Diego comes with plenty of perks: sunshine, coastal breezes, and beautiful backyards. But when it comes to building a fence here, there are some local cost factors homeowners should know about. From permits to pricing, what you pay can look different from the national average.

Urban vs. Suburban Yards

In more urban neighborhoods like North Park, Hillcrest, or City Heights, smaller lot sizes and tight access points can make fence installation more complex (and a bit pricier). Contractors may need compact tools or extra labor to work in tight alleyways or shared spaces.

In contrast, suburban areas like La Mesa, San Marcos, or Chula Vista often offer more space and accessibility, making installation smoother and sometimes less expensive, especially if heavy equipment can be brought in easily.

Permit Requirements in San Diego

Do I need a permit to build a fence in San Diego? Great question, and the answer is: it depends.

In general, you don’t need a permit if your fence is:

• 6 feet or shorter in height

• Installed on flat ground and doesn’t obstruct visibility or access

  
  

But you will need a permit if:

• The fence is over 6 feet tall

• You live in a historical district or coastal zone

• Your property is near an intersection (visibility rules apply)

• The fence includes a retaining wall or sits on a slope

  
  

You can apply through the City of San Diego Development Services Department, and permit fees usually range from $100 to $250, depending on the scope of the project.

Pro tip: Always check with your HOA or neighborhood association before building; they may have their own rules about fence height, material, or style.

Local Contractor Pricing & Availability

San Diego is a competitive home improvement market, so pricing can vary widely based on the contractor’s availability, reviews, and schedule. During the spring and early summer, contractors are often booked solid, so you might pay a premium for quick turnarounds.

Here’s how to find the right balance:

• Get at least 2–3 quotes

• Look for contractors familiar with San Diego’s permit process

• Check local reviews on Google, Yelp, or Nextdoor

• Ask about timeline, cleanup, and warranty up front

  
  

If you’re a homeowner in San Diego, it pays to plan ahead and partner with a team that understands local regulations, coastal weather conditions, and urban lot challenges. That way, you’ll get a fence that’s beautiful, compliant, and built to last.

Fence Cost Calculator: Quick Estimation

If you're looking for a fast way to estimate your fence project cost, you’re not alone. One of the most common homeowner questions is: “How much does it cost to build a 100-foot fence?”

While final pricing depends on materials, labor, and layout, you can use a simple formula to get a ballpark figure:

Quick Fence Cost Formula

Fence Cost = (Length × Cost per Foot) + Gate Cost + Labor Cost

Let’s walk through two common examples:

Example 1: 100-Foot Fence (Mid-Range Vinyl)

• Length: 100 feet

• Material Cost: $30 per linear foot (vinyl)

• Gate: $400 for one walk gate

• Labor: $10 per foot

  
  

Estimated Total:

(100 × $30) + $400 + (100 × $10) = $3,000 + $400 + $1,000 = $4,400

Example 2: 200-Foot Fence (Wood Privacy Fence)

• Length: 200 feet

• Material Cost: $25 per linear foot (wood)

• Gates: Two gates at $300 each

• Labor: $12 per foot (more digging required)

  
  

Estimated Total:

(200 × $25) + $600 + (200 × $12) = $5,000 + $600 + $2,400 = $8,000

Things That Can Shift the Price

• Swapping materials (chain link is cheaper, iron is more expensive)

• Adding custom gate designs or multiple gates

• Building on sloped or rocky ground

• Upgrading to decorative posts or accessories

  
  

Want an even faster way to calculate your costs? Use an online fence calculator tool like *Home Depot’s Fence Calculator to plug in your dimensions and material type

These estimates give you a great starting point for planning, but always get a detailed quote from a local contractor who can assess your yard, terrain, and design preferences.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Fence?

If you're planning to install a new fence, you're probably wondering: “How long will this take from start to finish?”

The short answer is most residential fences can be installed in 1 to 4 days. But just like cost, the timeline depends on a few key factors: the material, the size of the project, the terrain, and weather conditions.

Timeline by Material

Here’s a quick look at typical timelines for different types of fences:

• Chain Link Fence: 1–2 days (fastest option, minimal prep)

• Vinyl Fence: 2–3 days (panels are easy to install, but leveling is key)

• Wood Fence: 2–4 days (includes time for post-setting and paneling)

• Aluminum/Wrought Iron Fence: 3–5 days (more prep, heavier materials)

• Composite Fence: 3–4 days (requires precision and extra structural support)

  
  

These estimates assume good weather, a typical 100–200 ft project, and no major complications.

Single-Day vs. Multi-Day Projects

• Single-day jobs are usually small-scale (under 100 feet), on flat land, and use materials like chain link or prefab panels.

• Multi-day projects involve larger areas, custom fence work, or difficult conditions like sloped terrain or existing fence removal.

  
  

Don’t forget that post-setting may require curing time. Some installers will set posts in concrete on day one and return a day or two later to complete the panel work. This helps ensure your fence is secure and long-lasting.

How long does it take to install a fence?

It depends! For most homes, a fence can be installed in 2 to 4 days, depending on material, yard conditions, and weather. Add an extra day or two for custom gates or special finishes.

Pro tip: Book early, especially in spring or early summer. These are peak fence-installation seasons, and contractors’ schedules can fill up fast in places like San Diego.

FAQs About Fence Building

Fence projects often come with a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first time tackling one. Below are some of the most common questions homeowners ask before (and during) the building process.

Can I Build a Fence on the Property Line?

Technically, yes you can build a fence on your property line. But before you start digging post holes, it’s important to:

• Confirm your property boundaries (use a site plan or property survey)

• Talk to your neighbors, especially if you’re sharing the cost or space

• Check local zoning laws or HOA rules, which may restrict fence placement

  
  

In San Diego and many California cities, fences can be placed right on the line if both parties agree. Otherwise, it’s safest to stay a few inches within your property line to avoid future disputes.

Do Fences Increase Home Value?

Yes, in most cases, adding a fence can boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Fences are especially attractive to:

• Families with young children or pets

• Buyers who value privacy and security

• Homeowners looking for a polished backyard layout

  
  

That said, not all fences are created equal. A well-maintained wood or vinyl privacy fence is more likely to add value than a rusty old chain link.

Is Vinyl Fencing Worth the Price?

If you’re after durability and low maintenance, vinyl fencing is absolutely worth considering. While it costs more upfront than wood, vinyl never needs painting, resists rot and pests, and can last 20+ years with minimal upkeep.

Other perks of vinyl:

• Easy to clean

• Modern, clean look

• Wide variety of colors and styles

  
  

Over time, many homeowners find that the savings in maintenance and repairs make vinyl a smart long-term investment.

What Is the Cheapest Fencing Option?

The most budget-friendly fencing option is usually chain link. At $10–$20 per linear foot, it’s perfect for large areas, pet containment, or utility fencing. If privacy is important, you can add vinyl slats or screening fabric for a bit more.

Other affordable picks include:

• Basic wood fences (like pressure-treated pine)

• Split rail or post-and-rail fences for large rural properties

• Bamboo fencing rolls for quick privacy fixes (temporary)

  
  

Always consider long-term costs too; cheaper up front doesn’t always mean cheaper over time if maintenance or replacement comes sooner.

Final Tips Before You Start Your Fence Project

Ready to bring your dream fence to life? Before the first post goes in the ground, there are a few important steps that can save you time, money, and headaches down the line.

Get Multiple Quotes

Don’t go with the first contractor you call get at least 2–3 quotes. This gives you a clearer idea of what’s fair in your area and helps you compare not just price, but communication style, timelines, and included services. A higher bid might come with better materials or warranty coverage, so it’s worth asking for details.

Check Local Zoning Laws and HOA Rules

Each city and neighborhood can have different rules about fence height, style, and placement. If you're in San Diego, your fence can't usually exceed 6 feet in the backyard or 3 feet in the front yard without a permit. If you live in a homeowners association (HOA), double-check their guidelines. Some require specific materials, colors, or even pre-approval before installation.

Always Call 811 Before Digging

This one’s big. Call 811 (the national “Call Before You Dig” number) at least a few days before you begin. Utility companies will come out and mark where underground lines are located for free. Whether you're installing the fence yourself or hiring a pro, this is a step you can’t skip.

Read Reviews and Ask for References

Not all contractors are created equal. Take a few minutes to check online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Nextdoor. Look for patterns in feedback, good or bad.

Even better? Ask for recent references and photos of similar jobs. A reputable installer should have no problem sharing their work. It’s a small step that can give you major peace of mind.

Taking the time to prep properly—from getting quotes to understanding local rules—will make your fence project smoother, safer, and way less stressful. A little planning now means a lot fewer surprises later.