Average Wood Fence Costs by Material

The type of wood you choose is the single biggest factor affecting your fence’s price. Here’s what you can expect to pay per linear foot for the most common materials in 2026:

Pressure-Treated Pine: $12–$20 per linear foot — The most budget-friendly option. Chemically treated to resist rot and insects, it’s the go-to choice for most homeowners.
Cedar: $18–$30 per linear foot — Naturally resistant to decay and insects. Cedar ages to a beautiful silver-gray and offers a premium look without the premium-hardwood price.
Redwood: $22–$35 per linear foot — Rich color and exceptional durability, but regionally limited and priced at a premium.
Composite/Wood-Blend: $25–$45 per linear foot — Not pure wood, but combines wood fibers with recycled plastic for near-zero maintenance.

Labor Costs: DIY vs Professional Installation

Labor typically accounts for 50–60% of the total fence cost. Professional installation runs $8–$15 per linear foot for standard wood fencing, but prices climb with terrain difficulty, access constraints, and regional labor rates.

DIY installation can save you thousands, but fencing is deceptively labor-intensive. You’ll need to set posts in concrete (typically 2 feet deep), ensure perfect leveling and alignment across the entire run, and handle heavy materials. For most homeowners, professional installation pays for itself in speed, precision, and warranty protection.

Factors That Affect Wood Fence Pricing

Fence Height: 4-foot picket fences cost less than 6- or 8-foot privacy fences.
Total Linear Footage: Longer runs reduce the per-foot cost through economies of scale.
Terrain: Sloped, rocky, or tree-root-dense yards increase labor hours.
Gate Count & Hardware: Each gate adds $150–$600 depending on width and hardware quality.
Old Fence Removal: Budget $3–$7 per linear foot to demolish and haul away an existing fence.
Permits: Many municipalities require permits ($50–$400). Your contractor should handle this.

Cost Breakdown by Fence Type

Privacy Fence (6 ft): $2,700–$5,600 for 150 linear feet — tight board spacing with no gaps.
Picket Fence (4 ft): $1,800–$3,800 for 150 linear feet — spaced boards, classic curb appeal.
Split Rail (3-rail): $1,500–$3,000 for 150 linear feet — rustic, open style popular for large properties.
Lattice-Top: $3,000–$6,800 for 150 linear feet — decorative top detail adds labor and material cost.

How to Get Accurate Quotes

Always get at least three written estimates. Provide each contractor with the same specifications so you’re comparing apples to apples. A reputable quote includes:

Material type, grade, and supplier
Post setting method (concrete depth and diameter)
Gate hardware specifications
Cleanup and debris removal
Warranty terms on both materials and labor
Estimated timeline with start and completion dates

Is a Wood Fence Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. A well-built wood fence delivers a 50–70% return on investment through increased property value, enhanced curb appeal, and the practical benefits of privacy and security. Unlike vinyl or metal alternatives, wood can be repaired board-by-board, refinished to match new aesthetics, and it naturally complements any landscape design.

Ready to get started? Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate tailored to your property and preferences.