The cost for farm fencing ranges from $1,000 to $8,000. Ultimately, a pro will determine the final price based on which animals you have as well as the fence’s size and materials used.
If you need a sturdy enclosure for horses or livestock, a pipe fence is a long-term investment that will keep them secure. Its recycled metal composition means pipe fence costs more than other farm fencing types, but you’ll get quality with that higher price tag—the average price range is $2,000. Pipe fencing is popular because it’s attractive, low maintenance, long-lasting, and strong enough to hold even the largest animals. Here’s everything you need to know before you invest in a pipe fence.
The average pipe fence costs $13.50 to $40 per linear foot, including materials and labor. The 835 linear feet of fencing required to fence one square acre of land is between $11,300 and $33,400 total or an average of $21,300.
The largest impact on total pipe fence cost comes from the perimeter of the area you’re enclosing. The longer the fence, the more material and labor will be needed for installation.
| Fenced Area | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| ¼ square acre | $5,700–$16,800 |
| 1 square acre | $11,300–$33,400 |
| 10 square acres | $35,700–$105,600 |
Hiring a local fencing contractor to install your fence will add $2 to $6 per linear foot of labor costs to your total. That amounts to an additional $1,700 to $5,100 for one square acre, or about 50% of the total cost to install a fence.
Labor costs can depend on factors like terrain complexity, soil type, local labor rates, and project specifications. For instance, rocky soil or steep slopes may push costs toward the higher end since your pro will need to spend more time prepping the site and grading the soil. Most contractors will provide a detailed quote that includes labor, materials, and any necessary permits or surveys to help you avoid unexpected fees.
Pipe fencing material costs depend on local availability and the cost of living in your area. Pipe fencing is very common in rural areas of Texas and Missouri, where you can expect to spend about $13.50 per linear foot to install it. Other states, such as California and Arizona, see average costs closer to $35 per linear foot.
| Location | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Amarillo, TX | $13.50 |
| Springfield, MO | $13.50 |
| San Francisco, CA | $42 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $35 |
| Albuquerque, NM | $22.75 |
| Oklahoma City, OK | $15 |
| Denver, CO | $28.50 |
Various factors can impact the cost of a pipe fence, but the material will often play the largest role in the cost.
The biggest cost you’ll pay for a pipe fence is the price of the fencing materials. Expect to pay $11.50 to $34 per linear foot for materials alone, depending on costs in your local area.
Manufacturers use many different metals to create metal pipe horse fencing. Two of the most common options are aluminum and iron. While cost differences are minimal in price per linear foot, they have enough impact to add up to hundreds of dollars per square acre of enclosure.
| Fencing Material | Average Installed Cost (per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $19–$33 |
| Iron | $19.50–$33.50 |
You’ll most likely need at least one gate for your livestock fence. Depending on their length and construction, these range in cost, but you can expect to spend $160 to $800 for a livestock gate.
Anticipate higher installation costs if the terrain for your fence is uneven, rocky, or otherwise difficult to work on. The cost to regrade land and make it level ranges from $50 to $100 per hour while clearing the land of trees and other obstacles can cost $1,300 to $5,700.
In some municipalities, local building codes require a permit to install a fence. These permits can cost anywhere from $20 to $400.
Pipe fencing is a huge project that requires a large investment of time and money. Most homeowners don't have the experience or equipment to properly measure for and install a fence that can safely contain horses or other livestock. However, if you have the skills and tools required for DIY farm fencing, you can save $2 to $6 per linear foot by cutting out labor costs.
Otherwise, contact a few fence companies near you for quotes. These pros offer skilled and insured artistry and can advise you on the best fence for your needs. In the end, you may save money by avoiding the risk of DIY mistakes that result in wasted time and materials.
When it comes to pipe fence damage, the right choice between repair and replacement depends on the extent of damage and the age of the fence. For issues like damaged welds, minor post lean, or gate alignment problems, repairs are the most cost-effective solution. A skilled welder can restore these sections to full strength at a fraction of replacement costs.
Full replacement is likely the better option for extensive problems like severe rust, multiple bent sections, or soil erosion affecting numerous posts. In general, consider replacement if your repair costs exceed 50% of new installation prices or if the fence is over 25 years old with significant corrosion. At this point, investing in new materials with modern galvanization and protective coatings provides better long-term value.
Smart planning and thoughtful choices can significantly reduce your pipe fence installation costs. Here are some ways to save money on this property update:
Research and compare estimates from multiple contractors to find the best value.
Order materials directly from steel suppliers or distribution centers.
Choose standard 2 ⅜ inch pipe sizes.
Plan your layout to minimize corners and brace points.
Schedule during winter months when contractors have more availability and may charge less.
Handle basic site preparation and cleanup yourself.
Request detailed material lists to avoid overpurchasing.
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To choose where to add a fence gate, know where fence gates shouldn’t go. For example, you should avoid placing gates over low spots on the ground where water can collect and form muddy puddles. Many ranchers install gates at the corner of a fence. Certain gate placements may also be required depending on the type of gate latch you use.
A well-maintained pipe fence can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on factors like material, climate, and maintenance. Galvanized or coated pipes resist rust and corrosion better than other alternatives, so they tend to last longer, especially in humid or wet environments. Routine maintenance, such as inspecting for damage, removing rust, and applying protective coatings, helps extend the fence’s lifespan significantly.
The type of horse fence that’s most effective in the short term depends on your budget. Plastic fencing works as a temporary fence idea for those on a tight budget but doesn’t offer as much protection. Pipe fencing can be a short-term option as well. Despite its high cost, you can install and remove it easily if you need to relocate your pasture area.
