How Much Does a Privacy Fence Cost in 2025?

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

On average, homeowners spend around $4,300 to install a privacy fence, with most paying between $1,800 and $8,000. That's an average of $10 to $50 per linear foot, depending on factors such as height, width, ground preparation, and materials. Installing a privacy fence is a great way to boost your home's security and give you the seclusion you desire. By planning your budget and hiring a professional, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.

Privacy Fencing Cost Factors

Once you've chosen the type of fence and the material, other factors influence how much your fencing project will cost, including how high you want your fence, site condition, any extra features you want to add, and ongoing maintenance costs.

Fence Height

The fence height influences the overall cost because it determines the surface area or material used per linear foot. For example, a 6-foot-tall privacy fence uses less material per linear foot than a comparable fence of seven or eight feet. Therefore, the taller the fence, the more you'll pay per linear foot.

Installation Issues

Difficult ground, uneven terrain, inclines, oddly shaped property boundaries, and limited site accessibility can all increase your total cost. These issues all require more labor time, increasing your final bill.

Labor

Labor to install privacy fencing costs between $10 and $15 per linear foot or $55 per hour. The exact amount you'll pay depends on factors like your location and the project's complexity. If your property has rugged terrain, steep slopes, or limited accessibility, installation may cost more due to the additional time and effort required.

Permits and Land Survey

You’ll need a professional to survey your property lines before building your fence to ensure you install it in the right place on your land. A land survey costs $250 to $1,000 for fence installation. Permits will ensure that your fence is built to code, Your fence installation pro can coordinate these tasks and project costs. 

Extra Features

Adding features like decorative finishes, wood-look slats, cut-out top panels, or stylish top rails and post caps can enhance your fence's appearance but may increase costs. Talk to your local fencing pro about these options to find the best fit for your style and budget.

Ongoing Maintenance

It's important to consider how much you'll pay to keep your fence in good condition. Vinyl and composite fencing require minimal, if any, maintenance other than an annual cleaning with soap and water. Note that composite may eventually fade in direct sunlight, but you can paint or stain it to rejuvenate its appearance if that happens.

Wood fencing also needs regular ongoing care, including cleaning and staining. You may also need to treat the fence to protect against or get rid of insect infestations, fungus, and rot.

Privacy Fencing Material Costs

Common fencing materials cost between $10 and $50 per linear foot. While exotic hardwoods like Ipecan are more expensive, this guide will focus on the most popular and affordable options.

Wood

Wooden fences cost an average of $18 per linear foot, totaling $2,700 for a 150-foot fence. While they offer a classic look, wooden fences require regular maintenance, including annual staining or painting and treatments to prevent decay and insect infestations.

Vinyl

Vinyl fencing costs around $25 per linear foot, totaling approximately $3,700 for a 150-foot fence. This affordable option is resistant to rot, fungi, and insects and requires minimal maintenance. While it may not have the same lifespan as composite, vinyl offers a durable and cost-effective solution for many homeowners.

Composite

Composite fencing averages $28 per linear foot, or $4,200 for a 150-foot fence. If you're looking for a low-maintenance option that can last over 30 years, composite is an excellent choice. It's resistant to rot, insect damage, and mold and can mimic the look of wood if you prefer a wood-look design.

Privacy Fencing Costs per Linear Foot

Installing a privacy fence costs between $10 and $50 per linear foot, including both labor and materials. The total cost depends on the type of fence you choose and the size of your yard. By measuring your property's perimeter, you can estimate your project's total cost.

Here are some common fence sizes and their approximate installation costs:

DIY vs. Hiring a Fence Installation Pro

While you might be tempted to install a privacy fence yourself, hiring a professional fence installer is often the better choice. A local fencing pro has the expertise to ensure your fence is installed securely and correctly, saving you time and potential headaches down the road. They have the experience and equipment to properly level and prepare the ground before installing your fence, obtain permits, and properly construct your fence.

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.