Wood Fence Cost Guide 2026: Materials, Labor & Budgeting
How much should you expect to pay for a wood fence in 2026? Here's the complete pricing breakdown by species, style, and project size — plus tips to save without sacrificing quality.
The average wood fence costs between $18 and $55 per linear foot installed, depending on the species, style, and your local labor market. A typical 150-foot residential privacy fence runs $2,700 to $8,250 all-in. Here's how to estimate your specific project and make smart material choices.
Cost by Wood Species
| Species | Material/LF | Total Installed/LF | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $8–$15 | $18–$35 | 10–15 years |
| Western Red Cedar | $12–$22 | $25–$45 | 15–20 years |
| Redwood | $18–$30 | $35–$55 | 15–25 years |
| Cypress | $14–$24 | $28–$48 | 15–20 years |
| White Oak | $16–$28 | $30–$50 | 20–30 years |
* Prices reflect national averages for 2026. Local costs vary by region, accessibility, and market conditions.
Cost by Fence Style
Privacy Fence (6 ft)
Solid board-to-board construction. Most popular for residential backyards. Provides complete visual screening.
Board-on-Board
Overlapping boards create a premium look that appears finished from both sides. Costs 15-25% more than standard privacy due to extra material.
Shadow Box
Alternating boards on each side of the rail create a semi-private design that allows airflow. Uses slightly less material.
Horizontal Slat
Modern aesthetic with horizontal boards. Becoming increasingly popular for contemporary homes. Similar material cost to privacy.
Split Rail
Open rural-style fence for property lines and decorative boundaries. Uses the least material. Not suitable for privacy.
Picket Fence (4 ft)
Classic front-yard fencing with spaced vertical pickets. Lower height means less material. Charming curb appeal.
What's Included in the Cost?
Materials (40-50%)
- • Fence boards (pickets/planks)
- • Posts (4×4 or 6×6)
- • Rails (2×4 top and bottom)
- • Post caps and trim
- • Fasteners (screws/nails)
- • Concrete for post footings
Labor (40-50%)
- • Layout and marking
- • Post hole digging
- • Post setting and leveling
- • Rail and board installation
- • Gate construction
- • Cleanup and disposal
Extras (5-15%)
- • Stain or sealant
- • Gate hardware
- • Permits (varies by city)
- • Old fence removal
- • Property survey
- • Grading/terrain prep
5 Ways to Save on Your Fence Project
Order materials yourself
Contractors typically mark up materials 10-20%. Ordering directly from a lumber supplier and having it delivered to the site saves money on larger projects.
Choose the right species for your climate
Don't overspend on exotic species when pressure-treated pine performs perfectly in dry climates. Save premium wood for wet, humid regions where rot resistance matters.
Go with 8-foot sections instead of 6-foot
Wider post spacing (8 ft OC) means fewer posts and less labor. Verify that your chosen board thickness can span the distance without sagging.
Buy in bulk during off-season
Lumber prices typically dip in late fall and winter. Ordering 3-6 months before your spring project can save 10-15% on materials.
DIY the staining/sealing
Even if you hire a pro for installation, applying the finish yourself is straightforward and can save $2-4 per linear foot on labor.
Quick Estimate: 150-Foot Fence
Budget (PT Pine)
$2,700 – $5,250
Pressure-treated pine, standard privacy style
Mid-Range (Cedar)
$3,750 – $6,750
Western Red Cedar, board-on-board style
Premium (Redwood)
$5,250 – $8,250
Redwood or White Oak, board-on-board style