Cost to Install a Fence
The average cost to install a fence is $3,270, with most homeowners paying between $1,860 and $4,834 depending on length and material. Every figure on this page is sourced — see below.
What's included in the cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Building permit | $20–$60 |
| Land survey | $200–$545 |
| Old fence removal | $3–$5 per linear ft. |
| Gate (basic to premium) | $150–$1,200 |
| Tree removal (if needed) | $200–$2,000+ |
Cost by material (per linear foot, installed)
| Material | Typical cost per linear ft. |
|---|---|
| Wood | $15–$35 |
| Vinyl | $15–$40 |
| Chain-link | $12.25–$40 |
| Wrought iron | $22–$40 |
Source: Fixr.com (updated January 31, 2025). HomeAdvisor separately reports a blended $6–$50 per linear foot across all materials, typically around $23/ft. For comparison, Homewyse's independent estimate for standard mid-range fencing is $33.48–$53.87 per linear foot (May 2026) — in the same range as Fixr's wood and vinyl figures above.
What affects the cost
- Material. As shown above, chain-link is the cheapest option per linear foot, while wrought iron and vinyl run highest, per Fixr.
- Fence height. HomeAdvisor notes that taller fences need more material and, in some cases, additional structural support, which pushes cost up.
- Old fence removal. If you're replacing an existing fence, HomeAdvisor prices removal at $3 to $5 per linear foot on top of the new installation.
- Labor. Labor makes up roughly half of the total project cost, according to HomeAdvisor, so contractor rates in your area move the final number as much as material choice does.
Common mistakes to avoid
Confirm your property line and any HOA fence restrictions before installation. This is exactly why a land survey ($200–$545, per HomeAdvisor) is worth paying for — installing a fence in the wrong spot can mean tearing it out and starting over, at your own expense rather than the installer's.
Since labor makes up roughly half of the total cost, pricing for what looks like the same fence can vary meaningfully between local contractors. It's worth comparing a few quotes and confirming what's included — gate hardware, old fence removal, and post-installation cleanup aren't always bundled into the headline price.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install a fence on average?
The average cost to install a fence is $3,270, with most homeowners paying between $1,860 and $4,834, according to HomeAdvisor (updated June 20, 2026). Total project cost ranges from $425 to $13,700 depending on length and material.
How much does fencing cost per linear foot by material?
Per Fixr.com (updated January 31, 2025), wood fencing installed runs $15 to $35 per linear foot, vinyl $15 to $40, chain-link $12.25 to $40, and wrought iron $22 to $40. HomeAdvisor separately reports a blended range of $6 to $50 per linear foot across all materials, with $23 per foot as a typical figure.
Do I need a permit to install a fence?
In most areas, yes. HomeAdvisor lists fence permit costs at $20 to $60.
Do I need a land survey before installing a fence?
It's strongly recommended. HomeAdvisor prices a land survey at $200 to $545 — a real cost worth paying, since installing a fence on the wrong side of a property line can mean tearing it out and starting over. Check local HOA rules too, before you dig a single post hole.
How much does it cost to remove an old fence?
HomeAdvisor lists old fence removal at $3 to $5 per linear foot, in addition to the cost of the new fence.
How long does a fence last by material?
HomeAdvisor reports vinyl fencing lasting 20 to 30 years, aluminum up to 50 years, and wood 5 to 10 years, with wrought iron lasting longer with regular maintenance.
How much does a fence gate cost?
HomeAdvisor prices basic gates starting around $150, with premium gates running $400 to $1,200, on top of the fencing itself.
Related projects
Have a specific fencing question, or think one of these numbers is out of date? Contact us and we'll look into it.