Fencing costs vary depending on the material and style. Chain link fencing is generally the most affordable, ranging from $12 to $20 per linear foot. Wood fencing, such as cedar, typically costs between $15 and $30 per linear foot. Vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron fencing are more expensive options, with prices ranging from **$20 to $75 per linear foot**.

Labor costs for fence installation depend on the type of fence and the complexity of the project. Here's a general estimate:

• Typical labor rate: $50 - $75 per hour per worker
• Crew size:  Usually 2-3 workers for smaller projects, more for larger projects
• Estimated cost: $5 - $15 per linear foot (this can vary depending on the fence type and site conditions)

Factors that can influence labor costs include:

• Site preparation: Clearing and leveling the area can add to labor time.
• Post setting:  Setting fence posts requires digging holes and ensuring proper alignment.
• Fence panel installation:  Attaching fence panels or rails can be time-consuming.
• Gate installation:  Installing gates requires careful alignment and hardware installation.

The installation time for fencing depends on the project's size and complexity. A small fence might take a day or two, while a larger fence could take a week or more.

The prices in the table are based on standard fence installations in an average suburban area. Fencing costs can vary substantially by location. If you are located in the East or West Coast, you could expect to pay 15% to 50% more than the recommended price provided. Consult our location multiplier index for more accurate pricing in your market.

Labor costs for fence installation depend on the type of fence and the complexity of the project. Here's a general estimate:

• Typical labor rate: $50 - $75 per hour per worker
• Crew size:  Usually 2-3 workers for smaller projects, more for larger projects
• Estimated cost: $5 - $15 per linear foot (this can vary depending on the fence type and site conditions)

Factors that can influence labor costs include:

• Site preparation: Clearing and leveling the area can add to labor time.
• Post setting:  Setting fence posts requires digging holes and ensuring proper alignment.
• Fence panel installation:  Attaching fence panels or rails can be time-consuming.
• Gate installation:  Installing gates requires careful alignment and hardware installation.

Several factors can influence the final cost of your fencing project:

• Fencing Materials: The type of material you choose significantly impacts the cost. Chain link fencing is generally the most budget-friendly option, while other materials like wood, vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron come with varying price points. Wrought iron fencing, for example, is typically the most expensive option.
• Height of Fence: Taller fences require more materials and labor, which increases the overall cost. A 4-foot fence will be less expensive than a 6-foot or 8-foot privacy fence.
• Length of Fence:  Longer fence lines often benefit from economies of scale, meaning the cost per linear foot may be lower for larger projects. If you're installing a shorter fence (less than 50 feet), your price per linear foot might be higher due to fixed costs associated with mobilization and setup.
• Shape of the Fence: Straight fence lines are generally easier and less expensive to install than those with curves, angles, or multiple corners.  Complex shapes require more intricate layout work and may necessitate additional fence posts, increasing labor and material costs.
• Gates: Adding gates to your fence will increase the overall cost. Gate prices can vary significantly depending on the size, material, and hardware, typically ranging from $250 to $750 or more.
  

To estimate the amount of fencing needed, you'll need to measure the length of the fence line in linear feet. Here are a few methods you can use:

1. Eyeball Measurement: If you have a good eye for distances, you can visually estimate the length. This is useful for quick, rough estimates.
2. Walking Measurement: If you know your stride length, you can walk the fence line and count your steps to estimate the distance.
3. Rolling Measuring Wheel: A rolling measuring wheel provides a more accurate measurement, especially for uneven terrain.
4. Laser Measuring Tape: A laser measuring tape can quickly measure distances, but it may not be accurate on hilly terrain.

Now that you've measured the length of your fence line, you can calculate a rough budget for your fencing project. To do this, multiply the total linear feet by your budgeted price per linear foot for the type of fence you want to install.

For example, if you need 100 linear feet of cedar fencing and your budgeted price is $22.50 per linear foot, your estimated budget would be:

• 100 linear feet x $22.50/linear foot = $2,250

Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate. The actual cost may vary depending on factors such as the height of the fence, the number of gates, and any site preparation required. Always consult with local fence installers or contractors for accurate pricing in your area.

For a 150-foot fence line using vinyl fencing:

• Fence length: 150 linear feet
• Estimated cost (using $25/linear foot): 150 linear feet x $25/linear foot = $3,750

If you need to add a gate:

• Gate cost: $625
• Total estimated cost: $3,750 + $625 = $4,375