Fence Cost Calculator — Estimate Your Project Price Instantly
Calculate your fence cost in 30 seconds. Select your material, height, and linear footage. Get an instant estimate that includes materials and professional installation.
Online Fence Estimator
Total perimeter to be fenced. Average residential yard: 150-200 ft.
Walk gates are for foot traffic. Drive gates span driveways and equipment access points.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure Your Yard
Walk the perimeter where you want fencing. Count total linear feet. Include all sides, not just the front.
Select Your Options
Choose your material, height, and gate count. The estimate updates instantly as you adjust each field.
Review Your Estimate
The range shown covers materials and installation. Use it to compare materials and set your budget.
Fence Cost per Linear Foot by Material
Costs shown are for 6-foot fence height, installed. Material and labor included.
| Material | Cost per Foot (Installed) | 150 ft Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Link | $22 – $32 | $3,300 – $4,800 |
| Wood Privacy | $28 – $38 | $4,200 – $5,700 |
| Vinyl | $38 – $50 | $5,700 – $7,500 |
| Aluminum | $42 – $58 | $6,300 – $8,700 |
| Composite | $48 – $65 | $7,200 – $9,750 |
| Wrought Iron | $50 – $70 | $7,500 – $10,500 |
For a detailed breakdown of each material's cost including labor, post setting, and regional adjustments, see the Fence Installation Cost Guide.
What Affects Your Final Price
The calculator above gives a baseline. These five factors shift your actual cost up or down.
Terrain and Grading
Slopes, rocks, and tree roots add labor hours. A hilly yard can increase installation costs by 20-50% compared to flat ground.
Permits and HOA Approval
Most municipalities require a fence permit ($50-$500). HOA communities may mandate specific materials or colors, limiting your options.
Old Fence Removal
Tearing out an existing fence adds $3-$5 per linear foot. Concrete post removal costs more. Some contractors include removal in their bid, others charge separately.
Soil Type
Sandy soil is fast to dig. Clay and rocky soil require auger equipment and more labor time. Florida sand is cheaper to work than New England hardpan.
Regional Labor Rates
Labor accounts for 40-60% of total fence cost. Rates vary significantly by market. Urban areas and high-demand seasons (spring and summer) push labor costs higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this fence cost calculator?
This calculator uses national average pricing for materials and professional installation. Your actual cost depends on local labor rates, terrain, and the specific products your contractor uses. Treat this as a budget planning range, not a binding quote.
What is the cheapest fence to install?
Chain link is the lowest-cost option at $15-$32 per linear foot installed, depending on height. Wood privacy fencing is the next most affordable at $22-$48 per foot. Both are widely available and quick to install.
Does this estimate include labor?
Yes. All costs shown include materials and professional installation labor. They do not include permit fees, old fence removal, or grading work. Those are separate line items your contractor will quote.
How many linear feet of fence do I need?
Measure the perimeter you want fenced. A typical residential backyard requires 150-200 linear feet. If you are fencing a quarter-acre lot on three sides, expect 200-300 feet. Your contractor will measure during the site visit.
Should I get multiple fence quotes?
Yes. Get at least three written quotes from licensed contractors. Compare not just price but also warranty terms, material brands, and post-setting method (concrete vs. driven posts). The lowest bid is not always the best value. Use this calculator to verify that quotes fall within reasonable range.