Average fence installation cost per linear foot in the US
In the United States, professional fence installation costs between $15 and $45 per linear foot on average. Chain link fencing is the most economical ($15 to $25 per linear foot), traditional wood privacy fencing sits in the mid-range ($20 to $35 per linear foot), and low-maintenance vinyl or decorative aluminum fences range from $30 to $50+ per linear foot.
Overall costs are heavily influenced by terrain (rocky soil or slopes require extra labor), gate hardware, post hole depth below local frost lines, and municipal permit requirements.
Comparing fence materials: Wood, Vinyl, Chain Link, and Aluminum
Pressure-treated pine and cedar are popular for natural wood privacy fencing, requiring periodic staining or sealing every 2 to 3 years. Vinyl fencing carries higher upfront material costs but never rots, warps, or requires painting.
Chain link is ideal for pet containment and large acreages, while black powder-coated aluminum offers the timeless appearance of wrought iron without rusting.
Worked example: 150 linear feet of 6ft wood privacy fence
Installing 150 linear feet of 6ft cedar privacy fence with one walk-through gate and removal of an old dilapidated fence.
At $28 per linear foot installed, the 150-foot run totals $4,200. Adding a 4ft matching gate ($350) and old fence tear-out and hauling ($450) brings the total project investment to approximately $5,000.
Inputs for the US fence cost calculator
Fence length (linear feet)
Total perimeter distance in linear feet to be enclosed.
Fence height
4ft (front yard / decorative), 6ft (backyard privacy), or 8ft.
Fence material
Wood privacy (pine/cedar), vinyl (PVC), chain link, or aluminum.
Number of gates
Pedestrian walk gates or wide vehicle double drive gates.
Installation labor
Licensed contractor installation or DIY materials-only.
Old fence removal
Demolishing, digging out old concrete footings, and hauling away debris.
CALCULATOR QUESTIONS
US fence installation cost calculator questions
What is the average cost to fence a typical backyard in the US?
Fencing an average residential suburban backyard (150 to 200 linear feet) typically costs between $3,500 and $7,500 depending on material choice and terrain.
How deep should fence posts be buried in the US?
Fence posts should generally be buried at least one-third of their total height (e.g. 2 feet for a 6ft fence) and set at least 6 inches below local frost lines to prevent frost heaving.
Do I need a building permit to build a fence in the US?
Most cities and counties require a fence permit, particularly for fences exceeding 6 feet in height or located in front yards. Check with your local building department.
Does a privacy fence increase home value?
Yes. Fencing provides privacy, security, and child/pet containment, which is highly appealing to homebuyers and typically recoups 50% or more of its cost.
How long does a wood privacy fence last compared to vinyl?
Treated pine lasts 10 to 15 years and cedar lasts 15 to 20 years with regular sealing. Vinyl fencing lasts 25 to 30+ years with virtually zero maintenance.