How much does a chain-link fence cost?

*Figures above represent national average costs, including materials, labor and market fluctuation price adjustments for a 238-foot chain link fence.

Thinking about getting a chain link fence installed? Keep reading to learn more about the factors impacting prices, including size, height and much more.

*Figures above represent national average costs, including materials, labor and market fluctuation price adjustments, for a 238-ft fence.

The national average chain link fence cost per linear foot is $20-$27, including labor and materials. To calculate how many linear feet your fence will be, just use the dimensions of your yard as a guide.

Of course, these are just cost estimates. You may end up paying more or less than $20-$27 per linear foot for your chain link fence. On average, chain link fences can cost $15-$19 per linear foot on the low end. On the high end, national average costs range from $26-$34 per linear foot.

Labor and material costs are the main factors that influence fence installation costs. On average, the national labor cost to install a chain link fence is $2,037-$2,642. The national average material costs range from $2,816-$3,679.

* Figures above do not include market fluctuation prices, which are included in the total national average costs.

A taller fence requires more materials and labor. So, you can expect a taller fence to cost more money.

The average backyard fence is typically around 4 feet tall. A chain link fence of this height costs around $3,459-$6,140, on average. But if you wanted a taller fence for more privacy (say, 6 feet tall), the national average costs increase to $4,506-$7,998.

*Figures above represent national average costs, including materials, labor and market fluctuation price adjustments for a 238-foot chain link fence.

In addition to labor, materials, linear foot and height, other factors may influence the cost of a chain link fence. Consider these details if you're trying to build a fence on a budget:

Diamond size.

The mesh part of a chain link fence is called the fabric. Typically, the fabric is constructed into interlocking diamond shapes that offer protection without obstructing visibility. Smaller diamonds typically mean there's more steel in the fence. Compared to bigger diamonds, they may add more to the total cost.

Generally, standard chain link fences have diamonds that are 2 inches in width. However, you might want a smaller, more expensive diamond for areas that need more security, like pools.

Fence thickness.

Fence thickness — also called gauge — refers to the size of the wire used to craft the fabric. Thicker gauge wire is sturdier but will cost more because it uses more steel. Typical residential fences use 9-gauge wire, which is about .148 inches thick. 

However, if you want a more secure fence that will act as a barrier against wild animals or intruders, a 6-gauge wire (.192 inches thick) might be a better, though costlier, option. The smaller the number, the thicker the mesh, and the more you might pay. Contact local fencing contractors to see pricing near you.

Type of posts and rails.

After you've selected your fabric, the next step is choosing the posts that will keep it secured in place. You'll also need to choose the top rail that runs across the top of the fence to support the weight of the fabric.

If you go with a thicker fabric, you'll need a thicker post to help secure it, increasing costs. Additionally, if you decide to add privacy screening or slats into your fence, this will increase the weight of the fence and require stronger posts to keep everything stable.

Type of gate.

Gates will be necessary to allow access beyond your fence’s perimeter. Two main types of gates are common on chain link fences:

Swing gate.

A swing gate is the most common type of gate. The door latches directly on the fence itself and simply swings open inward or outward whenever you open it. This is often the cheapest option.

If you need more room to move lawnmowers or big patio furniture through the fence, choose a double-swing gate. It'll likely be more expensive but probably still cheaper than rolling or cantilever gates.

Rolling gate.

Unlike swing gates, which open inward, rolling gates slide to the side when opened. They could sit on wheels or roll on gliders. This type of configuration requires more moving parts, so it might be more expensive to install.

However, a rolling gate is a good choice if you don't have the space for a traditional swing gate.

Type of coating.

Most fence wiring comes coated in a protective material. This helps the fence last longer and can also add a colorful hue if you want some flair for your yard.

• Galvanized chain link fencing: This is the most common type of fence coating. Zinc is applied over the bare steel to help prevent rust and corrosion. This coating can be applied to the wire before it's shaped into fencing (galvanized before weaving). Or, it can be applied after it's been formed (galvanized after weaving).
• Aluminum-coated chain link fencing: Instead of coating the wire with zinc, some manufacturers use aluminum instead. Aluminum doesn't hold up to rust quite as well as zinc. However, it's extremely strong, making it a good choice if structural integrity is more important than looks.
• Vinyl-coated chain link fencing: A vinyl coating on chain link fencing can add color and vibrance. Generally, vinyl-coated fencing is galvanized first for superior durability. It's usually cheaper than powder coating.
• Powder-coated chain link fencing. Powder-coated fencing uses epoxy to apply a top powder coat. This coating is stronger and more durable than vinyl, making it a good choice for industrial or commercial fences. Because of its superiority, it's usually also more expensive.

A chain link fence has many benefits and drawbacks. Review these pros and cons to determine if chain link fencing is worth the cost.

Pros:

• It can protect your lawn from critters and intruders, as well as keep pets and kids safe in your yard.
• It can be cheaper than other types of fencing, such as wood, aluminum and wrought iron.
• It's relatively low maintenance, meaning your long-term costs will be lower as long as you keep up with cleaning and repairs.
• It can last for years, making it a good long-term investment for the security of your property.

Cons:

• It's less secure than other types of fencing.
• It doesn't offer as much privacy as a full wooden or vinyl fence.
• It doesn't always look aesthetically pleasing, especially if you go with the bare minimum galvanized coating.
• It can rust if you don't take care of it, which can be costly to repair or replace.

It is possible to install a chain link fence yourself if you're up for a challenge. If all goes well, it should be a one- to two-day project, minus the wait for your building permit. Depending on the local regulations, it could take a few days or longer to secure the legal go-ahead.

After getting your permit, the first step is to make sure you know the boundaries of your property. You can contact your local assessor's office to be 100% sure you're not building the fence partly in your neighbor's yard.

Next, you'll need to decide on the size and material of the fence. Measure to find the total cost of the chain link you'll need for the project. It's a good idea to mark the four corners of your yard with a stick, then tie a string around each. Then, measure the length of the string.

In addition to the fabric, there are a ton of fencing materials to buy, some of which include:

• End and line posts and caps
• Top rail and rail ends
• Tension bar, bands and wire
• Fence, end and corner posts
• Components for the gate if you want to add one
• And more

As you can see, there are a lot of working parts that go into building a chain link fence. Unless you're a seasoned DIYer, it may make sense to leave this project to the professionals.

Installing a chain link fence may sound simple, but it requires a lot of hard work. Find a professional chain link fence installer in your area on Thumbtack. Start contacting professionals today to get free cost estimates.