The cost to install a wire fence ranges from $1,300 to $8,000, with an average of $2,300. You’ll pay more if you choose high-end materials or have a particularly complex project.
The cost to install wire fencing can range from $1,300 for basic installations to $18,700 for fences with premium coatings and thick gauges. However, most homeowners spend around $2,300 to install a wire fence. Use this guide to learn how much it costs to install a wire fence based on factors like the fence’s type, material, and gauge.
While you can install siding yourself, we recommend contacting a pro. Improper installation can decrease the life span of the siding and cost more money in the long run.
Fencing is typically priced by the linear foot, so the longer and taller your fence, the more it’ll cost to install. Wire fencing can cost anywhere from $1 and $10 per linear foot depending on factors like the fence’s material, gauge, type, and coating.
| Linear Feet | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 25 | $25–$250 |
| 50 | $50–$500 |
| 100 | $100–$1,000 |
| 200 | $200–$2,000 |
| 300 | $300–$3,000 |
| 400 | $400–$4,000 |
If you have a large property that you want to fence in, it’s helpful to consider how much fencing costs per acre. One acre is around 835 linear feet, but if you don’t want to do the math, use the following table to help you figure out how much it’ll cost to fence your property.
| Acreage | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1 | $835–$8,350 |
| 2 | $1,180–$11,800 |
| 3 | $1,445–$14,450 |
| 4 | $1,670–$16,700 |
| 5 | $1,870–$18,700 |
Wire fences come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, and vinyl. The material you choose can significantly affect how much you’ll pay.
Aluminum wire fences are typically the most affordable, ranging from $1 to $1.20 per linear foot including installation. This material is commonly used on electric fences because it’s more conductive than alternatives. It’s also highly durable, lasting for many decades with proper maintenance. But you’ll likely need to repaint or refinish it after a few years to restore its appearance.
Poly, or polywire, fencing costs between $1.15 and $1.25 per linear foot installed. It’s a lightweight synthetic material that combines plastic fibers with metal strands. It’s rust-resistant and a good fit for electric fences thanks to its conductivity. However, its relatively short lifespan of three to seven years makes it ideal for temporary and rotational fencing rather than permanent installations.
Steel fencing ranges from $2 to $4 per linear foot installed, depending on its gauge and coating type. It’s one of the strongest fencing materials available, so it’s a good fit for containing large livestock and areas with extreme weather. When galvanized and well-maintained, steel fencing can last for 30 years or more.
Wood and wire combination fencing costs $2 to $7 per linear foot, including installation. It’s a traditional fencing style that combines wooden posts with wire mesh or strands between them. Many people like the look of it compared to other wire fencing types. And while it’s not as durable as some alternatives, it’s strong enough to contain smaller animals. The wood components typically need replacement every 10 to 15 years, while the wire sections may last longer. Regular sealing of the wood elements can help to prevent rot and extend the fence’s life.
The gauge of your fence wire, aka its thickness, affects both its cost and strength. Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker wire. For example, a 6-gauge wire is substantially thicker than an 18-gauge wire. Heavier gauges cost more up front, but they offer better durability and longer lifespans.
| Gauge | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 18 | $0.80–$1 |
| 14 | $1–$1.20 |
| 12.5 | $1.10–$1.25 |
| 11 | $1.15–$1.40 |
| 10 | $1.25–$1.50 |
| 9 | $1.50–$2 |
| 8 | $1.75–$2.25 |
| 6 | $2.50–$3 |
Many wire fences have coatings that can help to prolong their lifespan by resisting rust, corrosion, and weather damage better than bare wire alone. In many cases, opting for a coating can increase your fence’s lifespan by five to 10 years, so it’s often worthwhile to pay higher upfront costs for the coating to reduce your costs over the long run.
| Coating | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Powder Coat | $1–$6 |
| Galvanized Before Weld | $2–$5.50 |
| Galvanized After Weld | $3–$6 |
| Vinyl | $2.50–$6 |
| E-Coating | $3–$6 |
Powder coating costs between $1 and $6 per linear foot and provides a durable, corrosion-resistant finish by applying powdered paint and heat-curing it onto the wire. This coating comes in a range of colors, boosting the aesthetic appeal of a fence, and it’s resistant to scratches, rust, and chipping.
Ranging from $2 to $5.50 per linear foot, this coating method protects individual wires by dipping them in molten zinc before assembling the fence. It costs less to galvanize the wire before welding, but the welding process can burn away some zinc at connection points, so galvanizing after welding can provide better durability.
This coating method costs between $3 and $6 per linear foot and involves submerging the completed fence panel into molten zinc. The zinc coating protects every surface, including welded joints and corners, making it more effective at preventing rust than galvanizing before welding.
Vinyl fencing runs $2.50 to $6 per linear foot installed. It’s an incredibly low-maintenance material that comes in a range of colors, so it’s a great option for boosting the aesthetic and safety of common areas, like pools. With proper (and minimal) maintenance, you can expect a vinyl-coated wire fence to last for up to 30 years.
Ranging from $3 to $6 per linear foot, E-coating involves using an electrical current to create an even, protective finish on the wire, which helps prevent corrosion. While the multi-step process drives up costs, E-coatings provide exceptional durability and resistance to weathering, rust, and corrosion.
Beyond materials and coatings, there are also different types of wire fences, ranging from smooth and barbed to woven mesh and specialized livestock designs. Each type offers distinct advantages and costs.
Razor wire is primarily used for high-security applications, like military and industrial settings because it features sharp edges designed to deter intruders. It’s a relatively affordable type of wire fence, ranging from $1 to $3 per linear foot.
Smooth wire is, as the name implies, smooth, so it doesn’t offer the same level of security as barbed or woven wire. However, it’s effective at livestock containment and usually costs $1.20 to $2.50 per linear foot.
Barbed wire fences provide a strong layer of security with sharp barbs spaced along the wire. It’s a popular option for livestock containment because it prevents animals from pushing through the fence. Barbed wire fencing costs between $1.25 and $3.50 per linear foot.
Woven wire fences feature a grid-like pattern that offers strength and durability without any barbs or razors, making these fences ideal for keeping livestock contained without harming them. Woven fences usually cost $1.50 to $6 per linear foot, depending on the material and size of the weave.
Deer fencing is specially designed to prevent deer and other wildlife from entering gardens, crops, and orchards. They’re usually taller and higher tension than standard woven fencing to prevent deer from jumping over or through it. Deer fencing costs $1.75 to $5.50 per linear foot.
Chicken wire costs $2 to $4.50 per linear foot and comprises hexagonal mesh patterns. It’s widely used for small animal enclosures, garden protection, and craft projects. And its affordability and flexibility make it a popular choice for DIY applications.
Bull wire is a heavy-duty fencing solution designed to contain large livestock like bulls. It’s built to endure strong impacts and rough use, but this durability comes at a relatively high cost of $3 to $7 per linear foot.
Hog wire fencing features tightly spaced, durable mesh designed to keep hogs, piglets, and other animals securely contained. Its strength and resilience make it a popular choice for agricultural settings, with prices ranging from $3 to $10 per linear foot, depending on the gauge and coating.
Hiring a fence installer typically costs between $40 and $60 per hour. Fence installation pros can handle the planning, installation, and finishing of your fencing project. They’ll measure your property, ensure the fence is level and secure, and make adjustments for uneven terrain or other challenges.
Additional cost factors to consider when planning a wire fence installation include the cost of permits, if needed, as well as the cost to demolish the old fence and prep your property for a new one.
Installing wire fencing may require clearing the area of existing fencing, debris, or vegetation to prepare the site for your new wire fence. Fence removal costs range from $3 to $7 per linear foot, depending on the condition of the fence and the type of materials being removed. While some pros include demolition and prep in their estimate, make sure to confirm whether costs are separate to avoid any unexpected charges.
In some areas, installing a wire fence requires a permit, especially if the fence exceeds a certain height (often six feet) or involves specific zoning regulations. Permits to build a fence usually range from $20 to $60, but properties near utilities, wetlands, or boundaries may require extra approval or surveys, which can increase your costs. Make sure to verify permit costs with your local authority before building the fence.
Installing your own wire fence can cut costs by about 50% since you won’t have to pay for labor. However, in addition to the fencing material, you may need to purchase equipment, like post-hole diggers or wire stretchers, which can increase costs by about $100. For larger projects, you may want to rent a powered auger to speed up post-hole digging. These rentals usually cost between $75 and $150 per day.
While installing basic wire fencing is manageable for many handy homeowners, challenges like proper tensioning, post depth, and dealing with grade changes can lead to potentially costly mistakes. Fence installations are also time-consuming, so it may take you several days to build a fence that a local fence installer can finish with a team of people in just a few hours. So make sure to weigh the pros and cons of DIY fence installation before tackling this project yourself.
Whether to repair your existing wire fence or replace it with a new one depends on the fence’s age and condition. Minor fence damage like loose wires or bent sections are relatively affordable to repair, making fixes worthwhile. However, extensive rust, multiple broken posts, or severe sagging often signals end-of-life issues that may call for a replacement.
A good rule of thumb is that if repair costs reach 50% of the cost of a new fence, it’s probably time to consider replacing it. Additionally, considering most wire fences last for 20 to 30 years, if your existing fence is approaching that range, replacement is likely your best bet.
Installing a wire fence doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully and make smart choices. These tips can help you cut costs without sacrificing quality or durability.
Choose a cost-effective wire type instead of higher-end options.
Opt for the shortest fence height necessary.
Remove your old fence and clear and level the installation area yourself to reduce demolition and prep costs.
Reuse existing posts or fencing materials if they’re still in good condition.
Purchase materials in bulk to take advantage of discounts.
Get multiple quotes from local installers to find the best price.
Consider installing the fence yourself if you have the necessary tools and skills.
Install your fence during the off-season, like winter, when contractors may charge lower rates.
Installing a wire fence can potentially increase your home’s value. While the financial return may not be as high as it is for other fencing materials and more significant home upgrades, a well-installed wire fence can increase your property's value in the eyes of buyers by enhancing its curb appeal, providing security, and defining boundaries clearly.
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 extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on 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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The lifespan of wire fencing heavily depends on factors like gauge, material, coating type, and environmental conditions. However, with proper maintenance, many wire fences last for 20 to 30 years. Coastal areas or regions with high rainfall may see reduced lifespans of 10 to 15 years due to increased corrosion risk.
Standard wire fence post spacing ranges from 8 to 12 feet, depending on the fence’s wire type and intended use. Livestock fencing generally requires closer spacing, while basic property boundary fencing can get away with wider spacing. Terrain changes or high-tension applications may also require closer spacing.
Regular maintenance for wire fencing includes annual inspections for rust or damage, tension adjustments every two to three years, and immediate repair of any breaks or loose sections. You should also regularly check the fence posts for stability, particularly after severe weather, and make sure to remove any vegetation growing along the fence line.
