How much does fencing cost per linear foot in 2026? Detailed pricing by material type, including posts, labor, and gates.
Fence materials typically account for 40-60% of the total installed cost. Here's a per-linear-foot material breakdown for a 6-foot wood privacy fence:
Fence installation labor varies by material and terrain. Wood privacy fences run $10 – $15/LF for labor. Chain link is faster at $8 – $12/LF. Vinyl and ornamental fencing require more precision at $12 – $20/LF. Rocky or sloped terrain adds 20-40% to labor costs.
Post installation is the most labor-intensive part of fencing. Each post requires a hole 8 – 36 inches deep (depending on frost line) and 10-12 inches in diameter. Manual digging runs $15 – $25 per hole; power auger reduces this to $8 – $15. In rocky soil, expect $25 – $50+ per hole.
| Material | Installed Cost / LF | Lifespan | Maintenance | Privacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $20 – $35 | 15 – 20 years | Stain every 2-3 years | Full |
| Cedar | $25 – $45 | 15 – 25 years | Seal every 2-3 years | Full |
| Chain Link (galvanized) | $10 – $20 | 20 – 30 years | Minimal | None |
| Chain Link (vinyl-coated) | $15 – $25 | 25 – 35 years | Minimal | None |
| Vinyl / PVC | $25 – $50 | 20 – 30 years | Wash occasionally | Full |
| Aluminum Ornamental | $30 – $55 | 30 – 50 years | Minimal | None |
| Wrought Iron | $40 – $75 | 50+ years | Repaint every 5-7 years | None |
| Composite | $30 – $55 | 25 – 30 years | Minimal | Full |
Here's what a typical 200-linear-foot residential fence project costs, fully installed, with one walk gate:
| Fence Type | Total Installed | Cost per LF |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Link (4 ft) | $2,000 – $5,000 | $10 – $25 |
| Wood Privacy (6 ft) | $4,000 – $9,000 | $20 – $45 |
| Vinyl Privacy (6 ft) | $5,000 – $10,000 | $25 – $50 |
| Aluminum Ornamental | $6,000 – $15,000 | $30 – $75 |
Permits, survey staking, and HOA approvals can add $100 – $500 to the project. Always confirm property lines before installation.
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