A new wood fence is a good way to add privacy. It also makes your home look better. Costs for materials are rising in the U.S. Many homeowners ask, “What does a wood fence cost to install in 2025?” The national average is $15 to $45 per foot. Let’s look at the factors behind this price. This will help you plan your project with confidence.
Average Wood Fence Installation Cost in the U.S.
The cost to install a wood fence in the U.S. is not the same everywhere. In 2025, the average cost is $15 to $45 per linear foot. This price includes materials. It also includes labor.
For a 100-foot fence, the price is $1,500 to $4,500. A 200-foot fence costs $3,000 to $9,000. A 300-foot fence costs $4,500 to $13,500.
Several things change the final price. The type of wood is important. Pine is cheaper. Cedar and redwood cost more but last longer. Your location also matters. Labor costs are higher in big cities.
The fence height affects the cost. The shape and slope of your yard also add to the price. Wood fence costs have gone up in the last three years. Prices have increased 5–8% each year. The main reason is higher lumber prices and higher labor costs.
Factors That Influence Wood Fence Installation Cost
Type of Wood
When planning a wood fence, the type of wood is one of the biggest cost drivers. Cedar is durable and naturally resistant to rot. It usually costs $35–$40 per linear foot for a privacy fence. Pressure-treated pine is more affordable. It often costs $20–$45 per foot and is widely used across the U.S. because it balances cost and strength. Redwood and other hardwoods are premium options. They can cost from $35 to $120 per foot. The price depends on the grade and expected lifespan.
Style & Design
The size of your fence also matters. A taller fence needs more wood and more labor. For example, a six-foot privacy fence costs $25–$50 per foot. An eight-foot fence can cost $50–$75 per foot. The total length of the fence also adds up. A 100-foot project costs far less than a 300-foot project.
The design changes the price too. Privacy fences cost more because they need more boards to block the view. Picket fences are mid-range and popular for their classic style. Split-rail fences are the cheapest. They are common in rural areas where looks matter less and open layouts work well.
Labor Costs
Labor is often half of the total cost. In the U.S., installers charge $30–$80 per hour. This equals about $5–$20 per foot. Costs vary by state. Complex fence styles also raise the price. Areas with higher living costs usually have higher labor rates.
Permits & Regulations
Permits and regulations can add more expenses. Some cities require a permit. The cost is usually $20–$60. Homeowners’ associations may also have rules. Sometimes you need a property line survey before building. This prevents disputes but adds another fee.
Extras increase the price further. A gate costs $400–$1,200. Staining or sealing adds $2–$14 per foot. Removing an old fence also adds disposal costs. Uneven or rocky ground may need grading. That makes labor more expensive.
Cost by Type of Wood Fence
When choosing a wood fence, it helps to know the cost of each type. It also helps to understand what each one offers. This makes it easier to make a smart decision. Here are the most popular options in 2025, along with prices and best uses.
Cedar Fences
Cedar is a popular choice. It is naturally resistant to rot and insects. A cedar privacy fence costs $35 to $40 per linear foot installed. High-end Western Red Cedar costs more, at $45 to $90 per foot. The material alone costs $2–$4 per foot for common cedar and $5–$8 per foot for Western Red Cedar. With proper care, cedar fences last 15 to 25 years. They often last even longer. Cedar is best for homeowners who want beauty, durability, and moderate cost. It works well for privacy fences.
Pressure-Treated Pine Fences
Pine is the most affordable option. Pressure-treated pine costs $20–$45 per foot installed. Premium treatments can cost as high as $90 per foot. Material prices are lower, around $1–$5 per foot depending on grade. The lifespan is 10–15 years with regular sealing. Pine fences are best for people on a budget who don’t mind maintenance.
Redwood Fences
Redwood is a premium choice. Low-grade redwood costs $35–$50 per foot installed. High-grade redwood boards can cost $70–$120 per foot installed. Materials alone are about $6–$10 per foot. Redwood lasts 25–35 years. It resists pests and decay well. Redwood is best for homeowners who want a long-lasting fence with a high-end look.
Spruce Fences
Spruce is a low-cost and short-term option. Installation costs $22–$35 per foot. Material costs are $2–$4 per foot. Spruce fences last only 5–10 years. They need sealing every year to stay strong. Spruce is best for temporary fencing or very tight budgets.
Composite / Engineered Wood Fences
Composite fences are strong and low maintenance. Installed costs are $55–$85 per foot. Materials cost $6–$15 per foot. They often use recycled wood and plastic. Composite fences last 25–30+ years. They do not need staining or sealing. They are best for eco-friendly homeowners who want long-term, hassle-free fences.
Comparison Table
| Fence Type | Installed Cost (per ft) | Lifespan | Ideal For |
| Cedar | $35–$90 | 15–25 years | Durable & attractive privacy |
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $20–$90 | 10–15 years | Budget-conscious needs |
| Redwood | $35–$120 | 25–35 years | Premium, long-lasting option |
| Spruce | $22–$35 | 5–10 years | Short-term or low-cost usage |
| Composite | $55–$85 | 25–30+ years | Eco-friendly, low maintenance |
How to Save Money on Wood Fence Installation
- Get multiple quotes from U.S. contractors: Contact at least three fence companies. Compare their prices. This helps you find the best deal. It also stops you from paying too much.
- Choose cost-effective wood types: Pressure-treated pine is one of the cheapest. It works well for most fences. If you like cedar, you can mix both. Use pine for posts. Use cedar for pickets. This gives beauty and saves money.
- Install during the off-season: Labor costs are lower in fall. They are also lower in winter. Demand is less in these months. If you install then, you save on labor.
- Handle staining or sealing yourself: Hiring a contractor for this is costly. Buy the stain yourself. Buy the sealant yourself. Do the work on your own. This saves a lot of money.
- Buy materials in bulk: Large orders get discounts. If your fence is big, buy all the wood at once. You can also team up with neighbors. Sharing costs lowers the price for everyone.
FAQs about Wood Fence Installation Cost in 2025
What is the average wood fence installation cost per foot in 2025?
In 2025, a wood fence in the U.S. costs $15 to $45 per foot. This price includes the wood. It also includes labor. The final price depends on the wood. It also depends on the size. It also depends on how hard the job is.
Which type of wood fence is the cheapest to install?
Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest. It costs $1 to $5 per foot. It is strong. It is affordable. It works well for big projects.
Does wood fence installation cost vary by state?
Yes, the cost changes by state. It also changes by city. Prices are higher in big cities. They are higher in states with a high cost of living. Weather can raise costs. Local building rules can raise costs too.
How long does a wood fence last before replacement?
The lifespan depends on the wood. It also depends on care. Pine lasts 10–15 years. Cedar lasts 15–25 years. Redwood lasts 20–30 years or more with care.
Is it cheaper to build a wood fence yourself or hire a professional?
DIY is cheaper at first. You don’t pay labor. A professional is faster. A professional gives better results. DIY mistakes can cost more later. Mistakes can also make the fence wear out sooner.