Fence Cost Per Foot in 2026
Updated 2026-10-14. All figures were checked on that date.
Short answer: installed fences run about $6–$50 per linear foot, averaging about $23/ft, and most projects total $1,860–$4,844 (Angi, as of 2026-10-14). The cheapest true privacy fence is 6 ft pressure-treated wood.
Calculator
Fence run only. Gates, tear-out, permits and survey are extra.
Installed cost by material
| Material & height | Installed $/ft | Typical life |
|---|---|---|
| Chain link, galvanized (4 ft) | $8–$28 | 15–25 yr |
| Chain link, vinyl-coated (4 ft) | $14–$36 | |
| Wood picket (4 ft) | $12–$40 | |
| Wood privacy, PT pine (6 ft) | $15–$45 | 10–15 yr |
| Wood privacy, cedar (6 ft) | $22–$60 | 15–25 yr |
| Vinyl privacy (6 ft) | $25–$60 | 20–30+ yr |
| Aluminum ornamental (4–6 ft) | $25–$75 | 30–50+ yr |
| Composite privacy (6 ft) | $35–$95 | 25–30 yr |
Source: RemodelCalculators (summarizing Angi, HomeAdvisor and HomeGuide 2026), as of 2026-10-14.
AD SLOT PLACEHOLDER: in-article 300x250
Height matters most for chain link
| Height | Chain link $/ft installed |
|---|---|
| 4 ft | $8–$20 |
| 5 ft | $9–$22 |
| 6 ft | $10–$29 |
| 8 ft | $12–$34 |
Source: Angi, chain-link fence cost, as of 2026-10-14. For privacy fences, going from 6 ft to 8 ft adds about 25–35% (HomeAdvisor via RemodelCalculators).
Before you dig
- Call 811 a few days before you dig post holes. It's free and finds buried utilities.
- Confirm the property line. Many towns require a setback, a permit, or the "good side" facing out. HOAs often limit height and material.
- Measure the real run. Walk it with a wheel or tape and count gates separately.
- Vinyl vs wood: vinyl costs more up front but needs no staining. Wood needs restaining every few years to reach its lifespan.