Fence Installation Cost 2025: Complete Pricing Guide
📅 November 19, 2025•⏱️ 8 min read
Installing a fence adds privacy, security, and curb appeal to your property. In 2025, fence installation costs range from $10 to $75 per linear foot depending on material, height, and style.
Average Fence Installation Costs
National Average: $2,800 - $5,500 (200 linear feet)
- Chain Link: $10 - $20 per linear foot
- Wood (Privacy): $15 - $40 per linear foot
- Vinyl: $25 - $45 per linear foot
- Aluminum: $25 - $50 per linear foot
- Wrought Iron: $30 - $75 per linear foot
Cost by Fence Material
Chain Link Fence
- Material: $5 - $10 per linear foot
- Installation: $5 - $10 per linear foot
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Best for: Security, pet containment, budget projects
Wood Fence (Cedar or Pine)
- Material: $8 - $25 per linear foot
- Installation: $7 - $15 per linear foot
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Best for: Privacy, traditional appearance
Vinyl Fence
- Material: $15 - $30 per linear foot
- Installation: $10 - $15 per linear foot
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Best for: Low maintenance, durability
Aluminum Fence
- Material: $15 - $35 per linear foot
- Installation: $10 - $15 per linear foot
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Best for: Decorative, pool areas
Cost by Fence Height
- 4 feet: 20% less than 6-foot fence
- 6 feet: Standard pricing (most common)
- 8 feet: 30-40% more than 6-foot fence
Additional Installation Costs
- Gates: $200 - $1,500 each
- Post holes: $5 - $15 per hole
- Concrete for posts: $50 - $200 total
- Old fence removal: $3 - $8 per linear foot
- Land clearing: $500 - $2,000
- Grading/leveling: $300 - $1,500
- Permits: $50 - $500
Labor Costs
- Hourly rate: $40 - $80 per hour
- Per linear foot: $5 - $20
- Labor typically 40-60% of total cost
- Complex terrain adds 20-40% to labor
Return on Investment
- Fence installation ROI: 50-65%
- Privacy fences add more value than decorative
- Well-maintained fences enhance curb appeal
- Can help sell home faster by defining property
Permits and Regulations
- Check local zoning laws for height restrictions
- Most areas require permits for fences over 6 feet
- HOA approval may be required
- Respect setback requirements from property lines
- Call 811 before digging to locate utilities
Maintenance Costs by Material
Wood Fences
- Annual staining/sealing: $500 - $1,500
- Board replacement: $100 - $500 every few years
- Power washing: $150 - $400 annually
Vinyl/Aluminum Fences
- Occasional cleaning: $50 - $150
- Minimal repairs needed
- No painting or staining required
DIY vs. Professional Installation
DIY Fence Installation
- Can save 40-60% on labor costs
- Requires proper tools and skills
- Time commitment: 2-5 days for 200 linear feet
- Best for simple, flat terrain
Professional Installation
- Guaranteed quality and alignment
- Handles permits and inspections
- Warranty on workmanship (typically 1-3 years)
- Faster completion (1-3 days)
Cost-Saving Tips
- Install during off-season (winter) for better prices
- Choose standard heights (4 or 6 feet)
- Remove old fence yourself
- Clear vegetation and debris before installation
- Buy materials in bulk or during sales
- Choose pressure-treated pine over cedar
- Get 3-5 quotes from licensed contractors
Choosing a Fence Contractor
Look for contractors who:
- Are licensed and insured
- Have 3+ years of fence installation experience
- Provide written estimates with material specifications
- Offer warranties on installation
- Can show recent completed projects
- Handle permit applications
- Have positive customer reviews