Estimate what a new fence will cost before you call contractors. Enter your fence length, choose a material, and toggle between DIY materials-only and pro installed pricing. Rates are editable so you can plug in local quotes.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the total fence length in linear feet (measure your property lines).
- Choose wood privacy, chain link, or vinyl.
- Set the number of gates.
- Toggle DIY vs pro install to compare.
- Adjust the material and labor rates to match quotes in your area.
The math behind it
Materials = length × material rate per foot + gates × $250 each. Pro labor = length × labor rate per foot. The tool also estimates posts (one every 8 ft plus one) and concrete bags (one 60 lb bag per post hole).
FAQs
How much does a fence cost per linear foot?
Installed, roughly $15–$25/ft for chain link, $25–$45/ft for wood privacy, and $40–$70/ft for vinyl — varying widely by region, terrain, and height. The calculator’s default rates are editable averages; local quotes are always more accurate.
Is it cheaper to build a fence yourself?
Typically 30–50% cheaper in cash outlay — a 150 ft wood privacy fence runs about $2,950 in materials vs $4,750 installed at default rates. The tradeoff is 2–4 weekends of labor, post-hole digging, and tool rentals.
How deep should fence posts be?
Below your local frost line, minimum 24 inches — with 1–2 inches of gravel at the bottom and concrete around the post. Use our fence post depth calculator for your frost zone.
Related calculators
- Fence Post Depth Calculator
- Concrete Slab Calculator — for post footings