How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck? [ 2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average cost to build a deck is $8,319, based on 20,403 verified projects reported by Angi Pros. Most homeowners pay between $4,340 and $12,652, with the range driven primarily by deck size, materials, and design complexity. If your project includes permit fees—typically $230 to $500—or a second-story build on a sloped yard, budget toward the higher end.

Building a Deck Cost Breakdown: What Affects the Price?

By considering factors of how to build a deck, such as labor, deck material costs, and size, you can get an idea of the final price or where you might need to adjust your expectations. Below is a breakdown of the major components to factor into your plans to build a deck.

Size

Deck construction runs $30 to $60 per square foot, with size being the most direct driver of your total cost. Standard ground-level decks with basic materials land closer to the lower end of that range. Second-story builds, high-end wood, or custom designs push costs toward the higher end.

Here is a breakdown of average costs by deck size:

Materials

Deck material costs make up a large portion of your total budget, ranging from $2 to $45 per square foot, depending on what you choose. Budget-friendly options like pressure-treated wood sit at the low end, while premium hardwoods and metals reach the high end. Choosing a less-expensive material can be tempting, but lower upfront costs often mean higher long-term maintenance expenses that require you to hire a local deck contractor to handle.

Here are the average costs of some common decking materials:

Here's a breakdown of the materials and their costs:

• Pressure-treated wood is a classic and durable decking material that costs around $2 to $5 per square foot but has higher upkeep requirements.

• Composite deck materials cost between $12 to $22 per square foot for materials only or $25 to $54 per square foot for an installed composite deck. They’re mostly recycled materials, so they’re a sustainable decking choice.

• Ipe wood decking costs around $10 to $20 per square foot on average but is more difficult to work with.

• Tigerwood costs about $7 to $15 per square foot. It has a beautiful and distinct striped pattern, so it’s one of the best wood for decks if you’re looking for an aesthetically appealing material.

• Mahogany costs $8 to $11 per square foot and is lower-maintenance than many materials. 

• Redwood decking costs between $5 and $35 per square foot, and it naturally repels pests.

• Bamboo decking costs $3 to $10 per square foot. It’s strong, relatively inexpensive, and resists mold and rot, though it’s not ideal for northern climates.

• Cedar decking costs $3 to $7 per square foot and naturally resists bugs, moisture, and UV rays.

• Metal or aluminum decking costs $15 to $20 per square foot, and they’re lightweight, long-lasting, waterproof, and low maintenance.

Deck Type

A floating deck costs about $20 to $60 per square foot because it requires extra support posts to remain structurally sound without being attached to your home. The complexity of your deck design is a primary cost driver, with types of decks like wraparound, multi-tier, and rooftop builds requiring greater accessibility, more prep work, and additional materials. Simpler rectangular designs on flat ground are the most cost-effective starting point for most homeowners.

Labor

Professional labor to build a deck costs $15 to $35 per square foot on average, making it one of the largest line items in your project budget. Most homeowners find that hiring a pro is the more cost-effective choice in the long run, since DIY mistakes can lead to expensive repairs down the road.

Deck Location

Where you build your deck affects the total project cost in several ways, with sloped yards and hard-to-reach sites increasing both planning time and labor expenses. Contractors may charge more when hauling materials to an inaccessible location adds difficulty to the job. 

Your geographic location matters too—homeowners in high cost-of-living cities typically pay more for labor than those in rural areas. Permits and local materials availability are additional location-based factors to account for in your budget.

First- vs. Second-Story Decks

A first-story deck costs $1,000 to $2,000, and a second-story deck costs $4,000 to $5,000. A second-story deck costs significantly more to build because the installation is more complex and labor-intensive. The most common and cost-effective placement is a first-floor deck attached to the back of your home. 

The price difference between the two can be substantial, as the examples below show:

• 10x10 first-story deck: $1,000–$2,000

• 10x10 second-story deck: $4,000–$5,000

Framing

Framing a deck—the process of setting the joints to make the structure safe and sound—costs $9 to $12 for labor per square foot. The lumber required for framing typically accounts for about one-quarter to one-third of your total lumber needs for the project.

Flooring

Installing flooring over a wood deck runs $20 to $45 per square foot on average, with the material you choose being the primary cost factor. Pressure-treated lumber is the most budget-friendly option at $15 to $25 per square foot. More elegant choices like porcelain or ceramic tile can add thousands—or even tens of thousands—to your total depending on the size of the deck.

Ongoing Deck Costs: What to Budget For

Owning a deck comes with ongoing maintenance costs, ranging from $270 to $7,500, and the decking material you choose is the biggest factor in how much you'll spend each year. Wood decks generally require more upkeep than composite or metal options. Budgeting for routine maintenance from the start helps you avoid larger repair bills down the road.

The following are the average costs for typical ongoing deck costs: 

• Deck repairs: $270–$7,500

• Cleaning your deck: $30–$60/hour

• Staining a deck: $550–$1,250

• Painting a deck: $500–$2,000

• Sealing a deck: $550–$1,330

Additional Costs When Building a Deck

Beyond the core build, several additional costs can affect your total deck budget. Knowing what to expect before you start helps you avoid surprises once the project is underway.

Deck Permits

Deck permits cost between $230 and $500 in most areas, though whether you need one depends on your location and the size of your deck. In some jurisdictions, your deck won't need a permit if it's small (under 200 square feet), low to the ground, and not attached to your house. Check with your local building department early in the planning process to confirm what's required in your area.

Deck Prices for Your Insurance

Adding a deck to your home can raise your homeowners insurance premiums, since it introduces additional liability and increases the insurable value of your property. Decks create fall and trip hazards, and they're also exposed to risks like fire or severe weather. Talk to your insurance provider before or during the planning process to understand how a new deck will affect your coverage and premiums.

Deck Building Pro Costs: What Homeowners Pay

Hiring a local deck building pro may cost more upfront, but you gain a safer structure, better craftsmanship, and long-lasting results. Professionals understand structural requirements, materials, and local codes, ensuring your deck is built to withstand weather, wear, and time—often preventing costly repairs later.

Here's why it's ideal to hire a deck building pro

Building a deck is a major construction project that requires planning, precision, and experience. Here are some of the top reasons to work with a pro:

• Deck building pros ensure the structure, footings, and framing are properly designed for safety and durability.

• They have the tools and expertise to work with a variety of materials, including pressure-treated wood, composite, and hardwood decking.

• Working with a pro helps ensure your deck meets local building codes and permit requirements.

• Professionals deliver a polished finish, from level boards to secure railings and stairs.

• Bundling deck construction with services like staining, sealing, or custom features can reduce overall project costs.

If you want to DIY deck-building prep

If you want to handle some parts of the project yourself, these tasks can help save time and labor costs:

• Clear and level the area where the deck will be built, removing debris or obstacles.

• Decide on the deck size, layout, and materials in advance to streamline the building process.

• Check local HOA guidelines or zoning rules early to avoid delays.

• Move outdoor furniture, grills, or landscaping elements away from the construction zone before work begins.

How Much Are Deck Add-On Costs?

Here are some other costs you might incur if you upgrade from a simple deck build:

3 Tips to Reduce Costs When Building a Deck

You can use your cost savings from building your deck to supply your future summer BBQ budget. Here are three ideas to help keep your new deck project costs down.

1. Choose a Simple Deck Design

Wraparound and multi-tier decks, as well as decks installed in tough locations to access, will always cost more than a simple rectangular design. Work with a local deck contractor to create a design that fits your aesthetic goals without going over your budget.

2. Opt for Cost-Conscious Lumber

Higher-end woods may look sleek, but you could pay twice as much for expensive lumber like redwood as you will for simple pressure-treated lumber.

Pressure-treated lumber costs more per square foot on the front end but will reduce the cost of maintenance compared to untreated wood once your deck is finished. Speaking of deck maintenance tasks, less-expensive materials, like wood, require a good amount of it. You’ll need to plan on spending around $700 to $1,600 per year to have your deck power washed and resealed.

3. Install Your Deck During the Offseason

Deck contractors with a waitlist have been known to drive up their prices to accommodate demand. If possible, build your deck in the winter or fall when demand for deck installations drops off so you can get the best price possible. As always, get quotes from multiple contractors and only work with licensed, insured, and bonded professionals.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed over 10,000 real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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