Privacy Fence Calculator
Enter your fence length, height, and material to get an instant cost estimate with a full breakdown: material cost, labor cost, number of posts, rails, and pickets, plus optional gate costs. Switch between wood, vinyl, chain link, and aluminum. Results update as you type so you can compare options side by side.
How to estimate your privacy fence cost
The total cost of a privacy fence depends on four main variables: fence length, fence height, material, and whether you hire a contractor or do the work yourself. Multiply the length by the per-linear-foot rate for your chosen material and height, then add gate costs, removal costs if an old fence needs to come out, and any terrain adjustments. A 6 ft wood fence installed by a contractor typically runs $28-$44 per linear foot nationally, making a 150 ft fence cost roughly $4,200-$6,600 before gates. Vinyl runs a bit more at $35-$55/ft but requires little upkeep. Chain link is the most budget-friendly at $19-$29/ft installed but offers less visual privacy.
Material quantities: posts, rails, and pickets
For a wood privacy fence, posts go in every 6-8 feet. A standard 150 ft fence needs about 19 posts at 8 ft spacing. Each section uses 3 horizontal rails for a 6 ft fence (2 for a 4 ft fence, 4 for an 8 ft fence). Pickets cover the width: standard 1x6 boards are 5.5 inches wide, so a 150 ft fence uses roughly 327 pickets for a solid privacy board style. Vinyl and aluminum panels come in pre-assembled sections, so you only count panels and posts. Chain link fencing is sold by the roll, typically 50 ft long.
Gate costs and add-ons
Budget separately for gates. A standard walk gate (3-4 ft wide) adds $150-$500 per gate depending on material; a double drive gate (8-10 ft wide) adds $400-$1,000. Automatic openers add $800-$2,500. Other common add-ons include: removing an old fence ($3-$8 per linear foot), dealing with rocky soil or tree roots ($50-$100 per post hole), building on a slope (15-25% labor surcharge), and permit fees ($50-$500 in most municipalities). Always check local ordinances before building - many areas have maximum height limits of 6 ft for rear yards and 4 ft for front yards.
DIY vs. hiring a contractor
DIY fence installation can cut costs by 40-60% because you only pay for materials. The trade-offs are time (a 150 ft fence takes most DIYers a full weekend with a helper), equipment rental ($150-$300 for a post-hole digger and concrete mixer), and the risk of misaligned posts or improper setting depth. Posts should be set at least 1/3 of their total length below frost depth to prevent heaving. For a 6 ft fence you need 8 ft posts with 2 ft in the ground. Hiring a licensed contractor shifts that risk and typically includes a warranty on workmanship.
Average installed cost by material and height (2026, national US midrange)
| Material | 4 ft height | 6 ft height | 8 ft height | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood (pressure-treated) | $22-$35/ft | $28-$44/ft | $38-$60/ft | 15-20 years |
| Wood (cedar) | $26-$40/ft | $32-$50/ft | $44-$68/ft | 20-30 years |
| Vinyl / PVC | $28-$42/ft | $35-$55/ft | $48-$70/ft | 30+ years |
| Chain link | $14-$22/ft | $19-$29/ft | $28-$40/ft | 20-25 years |
| Aluminum | $22-$36/ft | $30-$48/ft | $40-$62/ft | 25-40 years |
All-in installed cost per linear foot including materials and contractor labor. DIY saves 40-60%.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 200 ft privacy fence cost?
At national average rates for a 6 ft contractor-installed wood fence ($28-$44/ft), a 200 ft fence runs $5,600-$8,800 before gates or extras. Vinyl at $35-$55/ft comes to $7,000-$11,000 for the same length. Add one walk gate ($150-$350) and the total climbs slightly. Regional prices vary: Northeast and West Coast markets typically run 20-40% above these national midrange figures.
How many posts do I need for a privacy fence?
Divide the fence length by the post spacing, then add one for the final end post. At 8 ft spacing a 100 ft fence needs 13 posts; at 6 ft spacing (common for vinyl) it needs 17 posts. Add one extra post per corner and one on each side of every gate opening. Always buy 10-15% extra to allow for bad boards and alignment adjustments.
How deep should fence posts be set?
A common rule of thumb is to bury 1/3 of the total post length. For a 6 ft fence you need 8 ft posts with roughly 2 ft in the ground, or deeper if your local frost depth is significant. In northern climates with deep freezes, setting posts below frost depth (sometimes 3-4 ft) prevents heaving. Check with your local building department or a contractor about the specific requirement for your area.
Do I need a permit for a privacy fence?
Most municipalities require a permit for new fences, especially privacy fences over 4 ft tall. Permit fees typically range from $50 to $500. Many areas also restrict fence height, materials, setbacks from the property line, and appearance on front-yard-facing sides. Check with your local planning or zoning office before purchasing materials. Failing to get a required permit can result in fines or a required removal.
How long does a privacy fence last?
Lifespan depends heavily on material and maintenance. Pressure-treated pine lasts 15-20 years; cedar and redwood last 20-30 years with periodic sealing. Vinyl fences last 30 or more years and need little care beyond occasional washing. Aluminum is rust-proof and lasts 25-40 years. Chain link can last 20-25 years with minimal maintenance. All wood fences benefit from a quality water-repellent stain or sealer every 2-3 years.
What is the cheapest privacy fence option?
Chain link with privacy slats is the lowest-cost option, running $19-$29/ft installed at 6 ft height. Without slats it provides no visual privacy, but adding privacy mesh or slats typically adds $2-$6/ft. Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest fully opaque wood option at $28-$44/ft installed. DIY installation of either material cuts that cost by 40-60%.