How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pergola in 2025?
Building a pergola costs an average of $4,246, but varies based on materials, size, labor, and more.
The average cost to build a pergola is $4,246, with most projects ranging between $2,119 and $6,418.
Cost factors include material type, size, and labor rates.
Material options such as aluminum, vinyl, wood, and fiberglass vary in cost and maintenance.
Installing a pergola can increase property value and offer a comfortable outdoor area for relaxation and entertainment.
Hiring a professional to build your pergola ensures structural integrity and a safe, efficient project.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average cost to build a pergola is $4,246, with most homeowners spending between $2,119 and $6,418. Your total cost will depend on factors like the material you choose, the size of the pergola, and local labor rates. Transforming your backyard with a stylish pergola not only provides shade but also enhances your outdoor living space.
Pergola Cost Factors
On average, installing a pergola costs between $2,000 and $6,000. Materials make up 80% of the total cost, while labor ranges from $500 to $1,000, depending on the project's complexity.
Materials
Pergola prices can vary considerably based on the type of material chosen. Here are the average costs for the most common pergola materials.
Aluminum
Aluminum pergolas cost between $1,000 and $3,000 for a 100-square-foot structure, making them one of the most affordable options. Aluminum is popular due to its low-maintenance nature.
Vinyl
Vinyl pergolas cost between $1,000 and $3,000 for a 100-square-foot model. Like aluminum, vinyl is a budget-friendly option that's favored for its low maintenance.
Cedar
Cedar pergolas cost between $2,500 and $3,500 for a 100-square-foot model. Cedar is valued for its natural insect and rot resistance, making it a durable choice for your pergola.
Redwood
Redwood pergolas range from $4,000 to $5,000 for a 100-square-foot structure. Redwood is a popular choice due to its natural insect and rot resistance.
Pine
Pressure-treated pine is a common pergola choice, costing between $25 and $40 per square foot. This material naturally resists rot and insect damage. However, it’s a softer wood that may not last as long as harder materials.
Square Footage
On average, building a pergola costs between $30 and $60 per square foot, including materials and installation. Keep in mind that the larger your pergola is, the more you’ll pay in materials and labor, as it will take longer to build a bigger structure.
Labor
Expect to pay an average of $500 to $1,000 in labor costs to build a pergola. Most pergola builders charge $250 to $500 per hour and work with several team members to build your structure. If your yard needs site preparation like land clearing or grading, your labor costs will increase.
DIY Pergola Building vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY pergola kits range from $600 to $7,500 or more, depending on the size and materials. While building your own pergola might save money up front, hiring a pergola builder near you ensures professional, safe results and can save time and potential issues down the road. A pro can handle complex installations and navigate any challenges that may arise and can make expert recommendations on materials, design options, and maintenance to keep your pergola in great shape after it’s built.
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.
Pergolas and gazebos are both outdoor structures, but there are differences between the two. A pergola has a slatted roof that allows partial sunlight to filter through, creating a light and airy space. In contrast, a gazebo features a solid roof that provides complete shade. This key difference influences the comfort and visual appeal of your outdoor space.
Prefabricated pergola kits require one to four hours of assembly, while custom pergola designs take an average of eight to 16 hours. Additional groundwork, such as pouring a concrete slab, leveling the site, and removing obstructions, may extend the installation process to several weeks, ensuring a secure and long-lasting build.
A standard pergola kit ships with everything you need—four support posts, rafters, top runners, support beams, and hardware for anchoring the frame to a concrete pad. Many manufacturers also bundle add-ons like retractable canopies, privacy screens, or modular sections that let you tweak the footprint. Because each part is pre-cut and labeled, the kit helps you—or your contractor—assemble a sturdy, attractive structure without extra trips to the hardware store.
- Carpentry Framing - Install
- Carpentry Framing - Repair
- Closet - Build
- Wood Paneling - Install or Repair
- Fireplace Mantel - Install
- Wood Stairs and Railings - Install or Replace
- Interior Trim and Decorative Moldings - Repair
- Interior Trim and Decorative Moldings - Install
- Wood Stairs and Railings - Repair
- Wainscoting - Install
- Exterior Shutters - Install or Replace