How Much Does a Privacy Fence Cost to Install? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $1,800 - $8,000
A privacy fence costs $4,300 on average, but can range between $1,800 and $8,000 depending on the length, height, and material of the fence.
Privacy fence costs range from $1,800 to $8,000, or between $10 and $50 per linear foot. Most people pay an average of $4,300 on this outdoor project, which can add character and curb appeal to your home. The price will ultimately depend on the type of material, width, and height of your privacy fence.
- Average
- $4,300
- Low end
- $430
- high end
- $13,700
Privacy Fence Cost Factors
Between labor, height, and add-ons, the cost of a privacy fence can vary quite a bit. You and your neighbor may both put up fences and end up with two drastically different prices.
Length
To calculate how much fencing you’ll need to outline your property, measure this project in linear feet rather than square feet. The average privacy fence will run about 150 linear feet. But you’ll need to measure your property line to determine the exact dimensions. For a 150-linear-foot privacy fence, expect to pay around $35 per linear foot on average.
Height of Fence
The cost of any fence you install will vary depending on height. For privacy fences, the two standard heights are 6-foot fences and 8-foot fences. Your HOA or city may have limitations on what size fence you’re allowed to install.
For a 150-linear-foot privacy fence, expect to pay about $4,700 for a six-foot fence and $6,300 for an eight-foot-tall fence.
Slope
Yard terrain can make fencing installations more complex. Steep slopes and uneven terrain will likely cost you more than installing a fence on a flat surface. Leveling a yard might be your first step if the grade is substantial. Regrading or leveling your lawn costs $900 to $3,000.
Material
The fence material greatly impacts what you’ll pay for a privacy fence. For instance, wood is a more affordable option that offers decent privacy, whereas an aluminum privacy fence will set you back the most. You can also opt for PVC or iron privacy fences, which are more mid-ranged priced fences. You’ll want to avoid see-through materials, like mesh or chain link. Although these materials cost less, they don’t offer much privacy at all.
Labor
To install a privacy fence, expect to pay around $35 per hour on average. If the team you hire needs to prep the site, remove an old fence, or paint your fence, this will require more time and money.
It typically takes a fencing contractor 24 hours’ worth of labor time to tackle a 150-linear-foot privacy fence. So, prepare to have people in and out of your yard for several days.
Permits
Not all fences require a construction permit, but it is always best to check with the laws of your local municipality and your HOA before breaking ground. Cities, densely populated suburbs, and private housing associations typically require permits for fence construction over a certain size or height. The cost of a building permit in this case ranges between $20 and $60, depending on local laws.
Gates
The cost to install a gate on a privacy fence varies considerably. You'll pay anywhere from $200 to upwards of $8,000, depending on materials and design. Manual wood gates in a privacy fence cost an average of $400, while security gates with automatic sensors and smart features can creep up into the thousands. Some contractors will include a basic swinging gate in their initial per-linear-foot estimate, but you will pay more for upgrades such as double doors, keyed locks, and specialized materials.
Painting or Staining
Some fencing materials—like for a wood privacy fence—benefit from paint or stains to prevent rot, warping, and natural wear and tear. The exact cost of painting or staining a fence will vary based on material, preparation requirements, and your location. To avoid surprises, budget an additional $750 to $4,250, or opt for a vinyl privacy fence and skip this step.
Removing Old Fence
If you have an old privacy fence that needs removing, you’ll need to add on an extra $3 to $5 per linear foot. Keep in mind, this surplus amount won’t include additional labor costs.
Removing Trees or Stumps
The cost of tree removal to make way for a fence ranges from $200 and $2,000, depending on their size, species, and proximity to utility lines and structures. Stump grinding prices add about $320. Budget another $25 to $50 per plant if you plan to add new greenery after your fence installation.
Privacy Fence Cost by Material
A privacy fence can add beauty to your property. Wood privacy fences blend with surrounding trees, while metal fences complement a chic, modern vibe.
| Fence Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Wood | $2,700 |
| Bamboo | $2,800 |
| Vinyl | $3,700 |
| Composite | $4,200 |
| Corrugated Metal | $2,500 |
Wood
The cost to install a wood fence is a bit less than vinyl or metal, but it’s not as durable. To reinforce wood, fencing companies may combine it with metal, which raises the price.
Bamboo
Bamboo is lightweight but durable and requires little maintenance. However, bamboo will not last as long as metal or solid wood in climates with high wind, snow, and rain.
Vinyl
Vinyl fencing costs are a bit more than wood, but it’s a more durable material that requires little maintenance. For a privacy fence, choose solid vinyl panels that will block views.
Composite
Composite wood fences cost the most of all fences, but it’s a popular choice for its longevity and wood-like appearance. It’s strong against rot, mold, and pests, and is also low-maintenance.
Corrugated Metal
Corrugated metal fences come in sturdy panels that offer good privacy. The lower cost of corrugated metal fences combined with their installation ease and durability make them a fantastic option for privacy fences.
Privacy Fence Installation Cost per Foot
Fence installation is priced by linear foot, so the larger your yard, the higher the cost. The fence material also greatly impacts the price, as does the yard layout.
| Fencing Material | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Wood | $18 |
| Bamboo | $19 |
| Vinyl | $25 |
| Composite | $28 |
| Aluminum or Metal | $31 |
Building a Privacy Fence Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
You'll spend an average of $3,300 if you DIY vs. hiring a local privacy fence installer—a savings of about $10 per linear foot. But hiring a pro guarantees the job is done safely and to your liking.
But if you decide to build a fence as a DIY project, you’ll need certain tools.
| DIY Building Material | Cost of Material |
|---|---|
| Shovel | $10–$20 |
| Post-hole digger | $50–$100 |
| Drill | $100–$250 |
| Circular saw | $100–$250 |
| Sealant | $75–$100 |
How to Save on Privacy Fence Costs
Opting for lower-cost materials is one way to pay less for your privacy fence, but it's important to keep other tips in mind.
Clear and level your lawn yourself before the project begins.
Meet with at least three local fence companies to compare prices.
Opt for simple fence features such as a traditional manual gate.
Work around existing trees and major landscape barriers.
Complete the final landscaping yourself after the fence is in place.
Justine Harrington and Ginny Bartolone contributed to this piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you hire a fence installer for the project, the time it takes to build a fence is about 20 to 30 hours. Tackling the project yourself will take around 40 to 50 hours. It can take longer if you need to obtain permits, level the ground, remove the old fence, or remove a tree.
Installing a fence in fall and winter will often save you money. These are the slow times for most fencing companies since fewer people tend to use their backyard during these seasons. Plus, installing a wood fence during the fall allows the wood to season without the heat of the summer sun.
When comparing them side by side, horizontal fences cost more than vertical fences but they do tend to be more durable. Since the majority of fences feature vertical pickets, a horizontal fence offers a more distinct look. On the other hand, horizontal fences may not always make the best privacy fences since the rails could have slight gaps.
It is almost always necessary to hire a land surveyor near you to ensure your fence sits on the right side of the property line. Mistaking the shape of your property can lead to fines and costly changes if you have to move or adjust the privacy fence—not to mention some surly looks from your neighbor. We recommend jumpstarting your fence planning in the spring to ensure there is plenty of time to map out your plan before construction season.
While most homeowners aren't required to tell their neighbors that they’re putting up a fence, it's certainly a good idea to do so. Not only is it considerate to give neighbors a heads up about construction noise, but building a fence may limit your neighbors' access to their own backyards while building is taking place.