Fence Cost Calculator
Compare costs across all fence materials. Enter your project size to see pricing for wood, vinyl, aluminum, chain link, and wrought iron side by side.
Compare All Fence Materials
Enter your fence length to see costs for every material type
| Material | Cost/Foot | Total Cost | Lifespan | Maintenance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chain Link Budget-friendly | $18-$25 | $2,700-$3,750 | 15-25 yrs | Low | Calculate |
Wood Natural privacy | $28-$40 | $4,200-$6,000 | 10-20 yrs | High | Calculate |
Vinyl Zero maintenance privacy | $32-$45 | $4,800-$6,750 | 20-30 yrs | None | Calculate |
Aluminum Best value long-term | $45-$65 | $6,750-$9,750 | 30-50 yrs | None | Calculate |
Wrought Iron Premium estate | $85-$130 | $12,750-$19,500 | 50-100 yrs | Medium | Calculate |
Tip: Click "Calculate" on any material for detailed breakdowns including posts, gates, concrete, and labor estimates specific to that fence type.
Choose Your Fence Type
Select a material below for detailed cost calculations, material lists, and installation guides.
Chain Link Fence
$12-$30/ft installed
Budget-friendly option for utility areas, pet containment, and property boundaries. Most affordable but limited curb appeal.
Wood Fence
$20-$45/ft installed
Classic natural look with full privacy. Choose from cedar, pine, or redwood. Requires regular staining/sealing maintenance.
Vinyl Fence
$25-$50/ft installed
Zero-maintenance privacy fencing. Won't rot, warp, or need painting. Available in white, tan, and wood-grain finishes.
Aluminum Fence
$40-$75/ft installed
Elegant wrought iron look without rust or maintenance. Perfect for pools, yards, and decorative applications. Lifetime durability.
Wrought Iron Fence
$75-$150/ft installed
Premium estate-quality fencing. Authentic craftsmanship with maximum durability. Requires periodic painting to prevent rust.
Not Sure Which to Choose?
- Need privacy? → Wood or Vinyl
- Hate maintenance? → Aluminum or Vinyl
- Tight budget? → Chain Link
- Pool enclosure? → Aluminum
- Maximum curb appeal? → Wrought Iron
Quick Cost Reference by Project Size
Installed prices including materials and labor (5ft height, standard grade)
| Project Size | Chain Link | Wood | Vinyl | Aluminum | Wrought Iron |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ft | $1,800-$3,000 | $2,800-$4,500 | $3,200-$5,000 | $4,500-$7,500 | $8,500-$15,000 |
| 150 ft | $2,700-$4,500 | $4,200-$6,750 | $4,800-$7,500 | $6,750-$11,250 | $12,750-$22,500 |
| 200 ft | $3,600-$6,000 | $5,600-$9,000 | $6,400-$10,000 | $9,000-$15,000 | $17,000-$30,000 |
| 300 ft | $5,400-$9,000 | $8,400-$13,500 | $9,600-$15,000 | $13,500-$22,500 | $25,500-$45,000 |
| 400 ft | $7,200-$12,000 | $11,200-$18,000 | $12,800-$20,000 | $18,000-$30,000 | $34,000-$60,000 |
Prices vary by location, terrain, and specific product selection. Use our calculators above for detailed estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a fence cost?
Fence costs range from $12-$150 per linear foot installed, depending on material. Chain link is cheapest ($12-30/ft), followed by wood ($20-45/ft), vinyl ($25-50/ft), aluminum ($40-75/ft), and wrought iron ($75-150/ft).
What is the cheapest fence to install?
Chain link is the cheapest at $12-30/ft installed. For privacy fencing, wood is typically most affordable at $20-45/ft, though vinyl and aluminum cost less over 20+ years due to zero maintenance.
What type of fence lasts the longest?
Wrought iron lasts 50-100+ years (with maintenance), aluminum lasts 30-50 years (no maintenance), vinyl lasts 20-30 years, and wood lasts 10-20 years. For best value, aluminum offers long life with zero upkeep.
Which fence is best for privacy?
Wood and vinyl fences offer the best privacy with solid panels blocking 100% of view. Board-on-board and shadowbox styles provide privacy while allowing some airflow. Aluminum and chain link are not privacy fences.
Can I install a fence myself?
Yes, most fences are DIY-friendly. Aluminum and vinyl are easiest (pre-assembled panels). Wood requires more skill. Chain link is moderate difficulty. Wrought iron usually requires professional installation. DIY saves 30-40% on labor.
Which fence adds the most home value?
Aluminum and wrought iron add the most curb appeal and property value. Quality wood fences also add value. Vinyl is neutral to positive. Chain link typically adds no value and may decrease curb appeal in residential areas.