PRIVACY FENCES
How Much Does a Privacy Fence Cost?
Estimate privacy fence cost per linear foot — wood, composite and installation — with the free calculator.
A privacy fence adds value, security and peace. The price depends on material, height and length, with wood as the budget standard. This guide covers the cost per linear foot and a calculator to price the job.
THE SHORT ANSWER
The short answer
Wood privacy fences run $15–$35 per linear ft installed; composite $25–$45; vinyl $20–$40. A typical 150 ft backyard runs $3,000–$6,000. Composite lasts 25+ years with no maintenance.
Materials per linear foot
Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the budget standard — durable, natural and paintable. Composite costs 40-60% more but never needs staining. Vinyl is easy to clean but can crack in extreme cold.
- Wood (cedar, pine): $15–$35 per linear ft
- Composite: $25–$45 per linear ft
- Vinyl: $20–$40 per linear ft
- Metal/aluminum: $25–$50 per linear ft
Height and codes
6 ft is the standard privacy height in most areas, but local codes often limit front-yard fences to 4 ft. Gates, corners and slopes add cost. A survey to confirm the boundary is worth it before building.
The neighbor question
In most areas the fence sits on the property line and neighbors share costs. Discuss it before building — a shared fence is cheaper for both, and a boundary dispute after the fact is expensive.
Try the calculator with your yard
Enter the fence length, panel price per linear ft and posts + labor per linear ft to see the total.