Spring is the most popular season for fence installation, which means demand and prices both spike between March and June. Understanding what fencing actually costs per linear foot helps you negotiate from a position of knowledge.
Fence Cost by Material
| Material | Cost per Linear Foot | 150 ft Installed | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chain link (4 ft) | $10–$30 | $1,500–$4,500 | 15–20 years |
| Pine wood privacy (6 ft) | $18–$35 | $2,700–$5,250 | 10–15 years |
| Cedar wood privacy (6 ft) | $25–$45 | $3,750–$6,750 | 15–25 years |
| Vinyl privacy (6 ft) | $25–$55 | $3,750–$8,250 | 20–30 years |
| Aluminum ornamental | $25–$55 | $3,750–$8,250 | 20–40 years |
| Wrought iron | $30–$60 | $4,500–$9,000 | 50+ years |
What Else Affects the Price?
Gates add $200-$1,000 each depending on size and material. A basic walk-through gate is $200-$400. A double-wide driveway gate runs $500-$2,000.
Terrain: Slopes, rocks, and root systems all increase labor time and cost. Expect a 10-30% premium for hilly or rocky ground.
Post depth and concrete: Standard posts are set 2-3 feet deep in concrete. Frost-line requirements vary by region (deeper in cold climates). This is not optional — skip the concrete and your fence leans within a year.
Old fence removal: Removing an existing fence adds $3-$8 per linear foot, or $500-$1,200 for an average yard. Some contractors include this in their quote; others charge separately.
Red Flags on Fence Quotes
No concrete for posts: Posts set without concrete in a gravel bed will shift, lean, and rot faster. Unless the contractor uses a proven no-concrete method (like Post Buddy), concrete is non-negotiable.
Boards not specified: There is a big difference between a 5/8-inch dog-ear pine board and a 1-inch cedar board. The quote should specify wood species, grade, and board dimensions.
Gate not included: Some quotes price the fence line only and add the gate as a surprise add-on. Confirm the gate count and placement are in writing.
No permit mention: Many municipalities require permits for fences over 4 feet. The contractor should handle this ($50-$300) or at least mention it.
Spring Timing Tip
Fence contractors are busiest March through June. If your project is flexible, scheduling in late summer or fall can save 10-20% on labor. Get quotes in February for the best selection of contractors.
Check Your Fence Quote
Upload your fencing quote to QuoteScore for free AI analysis against regional pricing benchmarks. We flag inflated labor, missing line items, and materials that do not match the quoted price.