How Much Does a Chain Link Fence Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

The average chain link fence costs between $1,297 and $3,558, with most homeowners paying around $2,388. Factors such as the fence size, height, type, and design will determine the total project cost. Hiring a fencing professional helps ensure proper installation and lasting protection for your property. This guide will help you understand the factors influencing the price so you can plan your budget confidently.

Chain Link Fence Cost Factors

There are several factors that influence the cost of your chain link fence. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions. Some key considerations include the material, size, type, posts, gates, slats, labor, paint, old fence removal, excavation, and permits.

Material

Materials account for around half of your total fence installation cost. Depending on the type of materials you choose, your expenses can vary. For instance, standard mesh fencing is more budget-friendly, while opting for a driveway gate increases the cost.

Yard Size

The size of your yard plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. Larger yards require more materials and labor, which increases expenses. The table below will help give a rough idea, with prices based on an average four-foot high fence with a two-by-two-inch diamond size and nine-gauge thickness in a square plot.

Height

Choosing the right fence height is important for your needs and budget. Taller fences provide more privacy but come at a higher cost. You’ll spend $8 to $40 per linear foot (including installation), depending on your desired height and material type. However, the average homeowner pays $10 to $20 per linear foot. You’ll find fencing quotes with a total project or per-foot pricing.

Fence Type

The style and finish of your fence also impact the total cost and its suitability for your needs. Galvanized chain link fences are popular due to their durability against rust, making them great for long-term use. A cyclone or hurricane fence might be worth the investment despite the higher cost if you live in an area prone to high winds. Opting for a powder-coated finish enhances the fence's appearance and adds extra protection, though it increases the price. Wood post chain link fences combine metal fencing with wooden posts for a more natural aesthetic.

Gauge or Thickness

Gauge refers to the thickness of the metal strands in your fence. The higher the number, the thinner the strand. Choosing a smaller mesh size, like decreasing from two to one inch, can double or triple the price to $55 per linear foot. Thicker mesh lasts longer and provides more security for your property. Below are prices for standard two-inch residential mesh, not including labor.

Diamond Size

The size of the diamonds in your chain link fence affects both strength and cost. Smaller diamonds make the fence stronger but also more expensive. Two-inch by two-inch is the most common residential diamond size, costing $3 to $8 per linear foot. One-inch by one-inch diamonds will cost slightly more, at $8 to $15 per linear foot,

Posts

Posts run an average of $30 each or $3 per linear foot as part of the complete project. You’ll need posts with caps every seven to 10 feet.

Most companies set the posts and come back the next day to start installing the fencing, though a few may opt for one-day installations. Most posts are made from metal, the most economical and sturdy option, but some homeowners opt for more expensive wooden posts for a natural aesthetic.

Gate

Residential standard swing gates add $100 to $450 with labor. Automated commercial rolling gates that are large enough to allow a car to pass through run $500 to $1,800 or more.

Privacy Slats

Chain-link privacy slats cost approximately $3 to $10 per linear foot, including materials and labor. These strips can be woven through the chain links, and options include redwood, vinyl, and aluminum. They won’t provide as much privacy as a wood or vinyl fence but are roughly half the cost.

Labor

Labor costs often make up half of your total installation expenses. Hiring a professional fencing contractor ensures your fence is installed correctly and securely, which can save you money on repairs down the line. Professional rates range from $25 to $50 per hour.

Contractors charge more for taller fences, custom sizing, unusual shapes, and if they need to do any excavation or fence removal work.

Paint

If you're looking to add a splash of color or extra protection to your chain link fence, painting is an option to consider. While it can be challenging due to the fence's structure, a professional can ensure even coverage. Expect to pay around $5 to $8 per linear foot for this service.

Old Fence Removal

If you have an old fence that needs to be removed before installing a new one, you might spend between $3 and $5 per linear foot for removal. However, if your old chain link fence is in good condition, you could sell it to your contractor or a scrap yard to offset some of these costs.

Excavation

For quality installation, the land where your chain link fence will be set must be level and free of large trees, shrubs, and roots. The cost to grade and excavate land is $120 to $150 per hour.

Permits

Depending on your location, you may need a building permit to install a chain link fence. Building permits cost between $20 and $60.

Does Installing a Chain Link Fence Increase Home Value?

While a chain link fence might not significantly boost your home's market value, it can make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Fences provide safety and peace of mind, which is especially attractive to families and pet owners. A well-maintained fence can also enhance curb appeal and help define property boundaries–creating a more secure-looking home.

Budgeting for a Chain Link Fence

To make the most of your budget, consider the following tips:

• Select a fence height that meets your needs without extra cost. 

• Do some of the prep work yourself, like clearing the area, to save on labor fees.

• Choose standard galvanized fencing as a cost-effective option that doesn't compromise durability. 

• Keeping corners limited will reduce the number of posts and hardware required, helping lower the overall cost.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.