How much does it cost to install a fence?

Source: Thumbtack data

If you're thinking about building a fence in your front yard or backyard, keep reading to learn more about the costs involved. Once you understand everything there is to know about fence costs, you'll be ready to start requesting price quotes from professionals near you.

You can estimate the cost of a fence by determining how much fencing is required to surround your yard or property. Fences are measured and priced by the linear foot, so simply measuring your property lines can give you an idea of the price range to expect. It can also help contractors provide you a more accurate bid.

The cost of fence installation per linear foot can also vary depending on the materials. Chain link is often a cost-effective fence type, while wrought iron is the priciest. Wood, vinyl and composite materials are also great options, and their prices vary by quality of material. Here's a look at per-linear-foot cost of installing chain link, vinyl, wood and other types of fences.

The average cost to build a fence ranges anywhere from $23-$57 per foot (or per linear foot), depending on the materials. Steel and chain-link fences tend to have the lowest cost per foot, while aluminum fences tend to have the highest cost. 

Source: Thumbtack data

Source: Thumbtack data

Information on property lines can be found in your deed, or in land surveys provided to you when you purchased the property. Identify the property lines, then measure and record the linear feet. You want to make sure to stay within your property lines to avoid legal troubles (or unfriendly glances from your neighbors).

Fence height can also affect price. Fences can be any height as long as it adheres to local building codes, though they typically range between 4 and 8 feet tall. Professionals can also install any number and type of gates in a new fence, including walk-throughs and larger gates on rolling caster systems that permit cars to enter a property.

Keep reading to learn more about the per-linear-foot cost of installing different types of fences.

On average, chain-link fences cost between $7 and $12 per linear foot, making them the most cost effective type of fence you can install. They're made of steel that may be coated in zinc (galvanized), aluminum, vinyl, or another coating that will protect the metal from rust and corrosion.

We surveyed some of our pros, Secure Superstructures and Jay-Mar Fencing Installation & Repair, on the installation cost of a chain-link fencing project in different zip codes.

Slightly more expensive, wood fences cost between $15 and $45 per linear foot on average, and are often considered more eye-pleasing than chain-link fences.

Popular wood choices include pressure-treated pine and cedar—these deter bugs and rot and are more affordable than specialty choices such as redwood, although cedar costs more than pressure-treated pine. Keep in mind that wood requires regular maintenance such as annual staining or painting.

We surveyed Thumbtack pros on the cost to install a wood fence:

On average, vinyl fences cost between $19 and $35 per linear foot. Though more expensive than wood, vinyl fences are growing in popularity. Vinyl can replicate wood fence styles, comes in a variety of colors and designs, and is easy to clean and keeps its luster without the annual maintenance required of wood.

Expect to pay between $24 and $34 per linear foot in material costs to build a wrought-iron fence. Wrought-iron is a durable fencing material that can withstand harsh conditions and will require few repairs throughout the years.

An aluminum fence costs $22-$32 per linear foot. Installing an aluminum fence is an excellent idea if you want privacy, security and durability.

Pool fences are typically 200 to 350 feet in circumference, and most cost approximately $2,500 and $10,000, based on a national average, including build and materials. Pool fences must meet specific safety codes that affect their base height and space between bars. A lower base height and smaller gaps help prevent children or pets from gaining unsupervised access.

Luke Beerman of Freedom Fence Builders in Raleigh, North Carolina, says that most pool fences are constructed of black aluminum. For a 4-foot-high, black aluminum pool fencing, Freedom Fence Builders charges approximately $20 per linear foot, including build and materials.

Expect to pay roughly $16, on average, per linear foot to install a privacy fence. These types of fences are more like thin walls, so you'll pay more in material costs to install privacy fences compared to standard fencing.

Privacy fences are designed to separate your space from surrounding neighbors, and provide a comfortable enclosure for your yard or patio. Privacy fences also keep pets and children safe in the yard.

Wood privacy fences are popular choices for backyards and patios as they provide an effective barrier without distracting from the overall design of the outdoor space.

Fence gates come in all shapes and sizes, from simple swing-style to elaborate custom creations. The style and material affect the total fencing project cost. Here are a few examples of gate costs in different fencing materials, each based on national average pricing:

Contact your city and check if a permit is required. If a building permit is required for installing a fence, that cost will be rolled into the total price. Toni-Ann Pabon of Jay-Mar Fencing Installation & Repair says that each municipality has its own rules and regulations. Costs in the Orlando area range from $25-$300 for a permit, depending on which municipality issues the permit.

Check if your land is graded (even and level). If your land is tilted, labor costs may increase because fences are more challenging to install on uneven land.