Short answer: Most homeowners pay between $15 and $40 per linear foot for fence installation, depending on material, height, terrain, and labor costs. Budget options like chain link tend to fall on the lower end, while privacy wood, vinyl, and metal fences cost more.
For a full project estimate, see our guide on fence installation cost, which breaks down total pricing by materials, labor, and project size.
Average Fence Cost Per Foot (Installed)
Here’s a general breakdown of installed fence costs per linear foot:
| Fence Type | Typical Cost Per Foot |
|---|---|
| Chain link | $12 – $30 |
| Wood (basic) | $15 – $30 |
| Wood (privacy) | $20 – $40 |
| Vinyl / PVC | $20 – $45 |
| Aluminum / steel | $25 – $55 |
| Wrought iron | $30 – $75+ |
These ranges include materials and labor, but not major site prep or old fence removal.
What “Per Foot” Pricing Includes
When contractors quote a price per foot, it usually covers:
- fence panels or materials
- posts and concrete
- standard hardware
- basic labor
It may not include:
- gates
- removal of an old fence
- difficult terrain
- permit fees
Always ask what’s included before comparing quotes.
Why Fence Cost Per Foot Varies So Much
Fence Height
A 6-foot privacy fence costs more per foot than a 4-foot decorative fence because of added material and labor.
See fence installation cost by height for a detailed breakdown.
Material Choice
Wood is usually cheaper up front than vinyl or metal, but may cost more long-term due to maintenance.
Compare options in our guides:
Property Layout
Corners, slopes, and obstacles increase labor time and material waste.
Labor Rates
Local labor costs can shift pricing significantly, even for the same fence type.
Cost Per Foot vs Total Fence Cost
Per-foot pricing is useful for planning, but your total cost depends on fence length.
Example:
- 150-foot fence at $25/ft → ~$3,750
- 200-foot fence at $35/ft → ~$7,000
Use per-foot numbers to estimate, then confirm with quotes.
DIY vs Professional Cost Per Foot
- DIY: often $8–$20 per foot (materials only)
- Professional: often $15–$40+ per foot installed
DIY can save money but adds time, tool costs, and potential installation mistakes.
Important Safety Note
Before digging fence post holes, homeowners should call 811 (Call Before You Dig) to have underground utilities marked. The service is usually free and helps prevent damage to gas, electric, or water lines.
Related Fence Cost Guides
Homeowners comparing fence costs often look at installation, materials, and long-term value. Explore these related guides:
- Fence installation cost
- Chain link fence installation cost
- Vinyl fence installation cost
- Fence installation cost by height (4ft vs 6ft vs 8ft)
- Chain link vs vinyl fence cost
- Chain link vs wood fence cost
- Wood vs vinyl fence cost
Prices vary by location, fence design, and contractor. Use these ranges for planning only and get multiple quotes for accurate pricing.