How Much Does a Wood Fence Cost in 2026?

If you're planning a fencing project this year, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: how much does a wood fence cost? The answer depends on several factors, from the type of wood you choose to the complexity of your installation. In 2026, homeowners can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per linear foot installed for a standard wood fence, with most projects landing in the $25 to $45 range. For a typical 150-linear-foot residential fence, that translates to roughly $3,000 to $7,500 total.

In this guide, we'll break down wood fence cost by material type, explain what drives pricing up or down, and share practical tips to get the best value for your budget.

Average Wood Fence Price Per Foot by Material

The species of wood you select has the biggest impact on your total cost. Here's what to expect for materials alone (before labor) in 2026:

Pressure-Treated Pine: $3 to $8 per linear foot (materials)
Pine is the most budget-friendly option and the most widely available. Pressure-treated pine resists rot and insects, making it a solid choice for homeowners watching their bottom line. Installed, a pine privacy fence typically runs $20 to $30 per linear foot.

Cedar: $5 to $12 per linear foot (materials)
Cedar is a popular mid-range choice thanks to its natural resistance to decay and its attractive warm tone. It doesn't require chemical treatment, and it ages to a beautiful silver-gray if left unstained. Installed, cedar fencing costs approximately $25 to $40 per linear foot.

Redwood: $8 to $18 per linear foot (materials)
Redwood is the premium option, prized for its rich color, durability, and natural insect resistance. It's most commonly available on the West Coast, and prices can be significantly higher in other regions due to shipping. Installed, redwood fencing runs $35 to $50 per linear foot or more for higher grades.

Labor Costs for Wood Fence Installation

Labor typically accounts for 40% to 60% of your total wood fence cost. Professional fence installers generally charge between $15 and $25 per linear foot for labor, depending on your location and the complexity of the job. For a straightforward installation on flat terrain, you'll land on the lower end. Jobs that involve rocky soil, steep grades, or extensive post-hole digging will push costs higher.

Some contractors charge by the hour instead, typically $50 to $80 per hour per worker. Most residential fence projects take a crew of two about one to three days to complete, depending on total length.

Factors That Affect Wood Fence Cost

Beyond wood type and labor, several other factors influence what you'll pay:

Fence Height: A standard 6-foot privacy fence costs more than a 4-foot picket fence simply because it uses more material. Taller fences also require deeper post holes and sturdier posts, adding to both material and labor costs.

Fence Style: A basic flat-board privacy fence is the most economical style. Board-on-board, shadowbox, and lattice-top designs use additional lumber and require more labor, adding $5 to $15 per linear foot to the total price.

Gates: Each gate adds $150 to $600 or more to your project, depending on size and hardware. A single walk-through gate is relatively affordable, while a double-wide driveway gate with heavy-duty hardware can run $400 to $1,000+.

Terrain and Soil: Sloped yards require stepped or racked fence panels, which increase labor time. Rocky or clay-heavy soil makes post-hole digging harder, and some installers charge extra for difficult ground conditions.

Permits and HOA Requirements: Many municipalities require a permit for new fences, typically costing $20 to $200. Your HOA may also dictate materials, height, or style, which can limit your budget-friendly options.

Regional Differences in Wood Fence Pricing

Where you live plays a significant role in your total wood fence cost. Labor rates are higher in metropolitan areas and in regions with a high cost of living. For example, a cedar privacy fence that costs $30 per linear foot in the Midwest might run $40 to $50 per foot in the Northeast or along the West Coast.

Material availability also matters. Cedar is more affordable in the Pacific Northwest, where it's harvested locally. Pine is cheaper in the Southeast and Midwest. Redwood is primarily a West Coast product, and shipping it elsewhere adds a premium. To get accurate pricing for your area, try using the free estimator tools at CostCalculator.io to compare quotes based on your zip code.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Handy homeowners can save 40% to 50% by installing a wood fence themselves. A DIY pine fence might cost as little as $8 to $15 per linear foot in materials. However, fence installation is labor-intensive work that requires precise post placement, level rails, and proper concrete footings. Mistakes can be costly to fix and may not hold up over time.

If you go the DIY route, budget for tool rentals (post-hole digger or auger, level, saw) and plan for at least a full weekend of work for a 150-foot fence. For most homeowners, hiring a professional is worth the investment for a straight, sturdy result backed by a warranty.

Tips to Save Money on Your Wood Fence

Get multiple quotes. Prices can vary 20% to 40% between contractors. Aim for at least three written estimates so you can compare apples to apples.

Choose pressure-treated pine. If budget is your top priority, pine delivers solid performance at the lowest price point. It can be stained or painted to match nearly any aesthetic.

Schedule in the off-season. Late fall and winter are typically slower months for fence contractors, and you may be able to negotiate a lower rate or faster scheduling.

Minimize gates and decorative elements. Every gate, post cap, and lattice top adds cost. Keep the design simple to stay within budget.

Split costs with a neighbor. If the fence sits on a shared property line, your neighbor may be willing to split the cost. It never hurts to ask.

Bottom Line: What to Budget for a Wood Fence in 2026

For a standard 150-linear-foot privacy fence, here's a quick summary of what to expect:

Pine: $3,000 to $4,500 installed
Cedar: $3,750 to $6,000 installed
Redwood: $5,250 to $7,500+ installed

These ranges include materials, labor, concrete for posts, and basic hardware. Gates, staining, and complex terrain will add to the total. For a personalized estimate based on your specific project details, check out the free tools at CostCalculator.io to get a clearer picture of your wood fence cost before you start calling contractors.