Deck Cost Calculator
Estimate what a new deck costs installed. Enter your dimensions, material, height, and railing to see a realistic low-to-high range for framing, surface, and labor.
Updated November 2026 · U.S. pricing
Estimated installed cost
$0 – $0
| Deck framing and surface | — |
|---|---|
| Railing | — |
| Stairs | — |
| Old deck removal | — |
| Total | — |
Typical range for professional installation. Not included: permits, engineering for elevated decks, hardscape, lighting, and built-in seating.
How this deck cost estimate works
The calculator combines a typical installed cost per square foot for the decking material with a height multiplier, then adds railing, stairs, and optional removal. The result is a range because framing depth, footing requirements, and site access vary from house to house.
Installed costs include framing, joists, decking, standard concrete footings, fasteners, and labor. Railing and stairs are calculated separately because they are often the most underestimated part of a deck bid.
Deck cost per square foot (2026)
| Material | Installed per sq ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $25–$45 | Cheapest upfront, needs sealing every 2–3 years |
| Cedar | $35–$60 | Natural rot resistance, lighter than treated pine |
| Composite | $40–$70 | Low maintenance, 25–30 year lifespan |
| PVC | $45–$80 | Best moisture resistance, premium price |
Ranges include framing, decking, standard footings, and labor. Railing, stairs, and removal are extra.
What drives the price
Height above grade
A ground-level deck is the simplest build. Raised decks need longer posts, deeper footings, bracing, and often engineering or a permit. The calculator adds roughly 15% for 2–4 feet and 30% for 4+ feet, but a very high deck can exceed that.
Railing
Railing is priced per linear foot and is required by code on most decks more than 30 inches above grade. Wood railing runs about $35–$60 per linear foot installed; composite and aluminum run higher. For a 12×16 deck, railing on three sides is about 44 linear feet.
Stairs
Each step typically adds $150–$300 installed, including stringers and railings. Wide or curved stairs cost more.
Removal
Removing an old deck adds $3–$7 per square foot, including hauling. Decks with concrete footings or hidden hardware take longer.
Access and terrain
Narrow side yards, steep slopes, and long material carries add labor. A deck built over difficult ground may require hand-dug footings and extra bracing.
What a 16×20 deck costs
A 320-square-foot deck at typical U.S. rates costs about $8,000–$14,400 in pressure-treated wood and $12,800–$22,400 in composite before railing, stairs, and removal. Adding wood railing on three sides typically adds $1,500–$2,600.
Deck cost FAQ
How much does a 16×20 deck cost?
About $8,000–$14,400 for pressure-treated wood and $12,800–$22,400 for composite at typical U.S. rates, before railing, stairs, and removal. Railing on three sides usually adds $1,500–$2,600.
Is composite decking worth the extra cost?
If you plan to stay 10+ years, usually yes. Composite costs more upfront but needs no annual sealing or staining and typically lasts 25–30 years. Wood remains cheaper if budget is the priority or you prefer a natural look.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most attached decks and any deck above a certain height require a permit, and elevated decks often need engineered plans. Rules vary by municipality, so check before construction.
How long does a wood deck last?
Pressure-treated wood decks typically last 15–20 years with regular cleaning and sealing. Cedar can last longer. Composite and PVC decks commonly last 25–30 years with minimal maintenance.