How Much Does a Wood Fence Cost?
Installed prices for the most common wood fence styles, what drives the quote up, and how wood compares with vinyl over time.
Updated November 2026 · U.S. pricing
Wood is still the default privacy fence in most of the U.S. because it is affordable, easy to repair, and looks good in almost any yard. The tradeoff is maintenance: untreated wood in particular needs staining or sealing every few years to avoid rot and warping.
Wood fence cost by style
| Style | Typical height | Installed per foot | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split rail | 3–4 ft | $8–$18 | Property lines, rural, decorative |
| Picket | 4 ft | $14–$28 | Front yards, visible boundaries |
| Dog-ear privacy | 6 ft | $15–$30 | Backyards, the most common choice |
| Shadowbox | 6 ft | $20–$35 | Privacy with a finished look on both sides |
| Board-on-board | 6 ft | $20–$35 | Full privacy with a decorative overlap |
Installed ranges include posts, rails, boards, concrete footings, and labor. Gates, removal, and staining are extra.
What a 150-foot wood fence costs
A 150-foot dog-ear privacy fence typically runs $2,300–$4,500 installed. Add one walk gate ($200–$500) and removal of an old fence ($450–$900), and the project lands closer to $3,000–$5,500.
A 150-foot picket fence usually costs $2,100–$4,200, while a shadowbox or board-on-board fence runs $3,000–$5,300 because it uses more lumber.
What changes the price
Wood species
- Pressure-treated pine is the standard budget option, with a typical lifespan of 15–20 years if maintained.
- Cedar costs more upfront but resists rot and insects naturally, often lasting 20–30 years.
- Redwood and cypress sit at the premium end, with similar or better durability and a higher material cost.
Height
Six feet is the standard privacy height. Going to 8 feet increases lumber, post size, and footing requirements — and often triggers stricter permit rules.
Labor and site conditions
Wood fences are labor-intensive because every board is placed individually. Sloped yards, rocky ground, and limited access all add crew hours. Expect labor to be roughly half the total price.
Gates and removal
A walk gate adds $200–$500. A double drive gate can run $1,000–$2,500. Removing an old fence adds $3–$6 per linear foot.
Maintenance and staining costs
Untreated or weathered wood should be cleaned and sealed every 2–4 years. Professional staining typically adds 10–20% of the original fence cost each time, and it is the difference between a fence that lasts 10 years and one that lasts 20.
- Inspect for loose boards and rot after winter.
- Replace individual pickets rather than whole sections — wood is easy to match and repair.
- Keep soil and mulch below the bottom rail to slow rot.
- Use stainless or coated fasteners to avoid rust streaks.
Wood vs. vinyl fence cost
Wood is cheaper upfront: roughly $15–$30 per foot versus $20–$35 for vinyl privacy fencing. Over 20+ years, vinyl often wins on total cost because it requires no staining, painting, or board replacement. Wood wins if you want a natural look, plan to repair rather than replace, or need to match an existing fence.
Wood fence FAQ
Is a wood fence cheaper than vinyl?
Yes, upfront. A wood privacy fence typically costs $15–$30 per foot installed, compared with $20–$35 for vinyl. Vinyl usually closes the gap over time because it needs no staining or board replacement.
How long does a wood fence last?
Pressure-treated pine lasts about 15–20 years with regular sealing. Cedar and redwood can last 20–30 years. Rot at the base and untreated end grain are the most common failure points.
How much does it cost to stain a wood fence?
Professional cleaning and staining usually adds 10–20% of the fence cost, and it should be repeated every 2–4 years. DIY staining costs far less in materials but takes a full weekend for an average yard.
Does a wood fence add value to a house?
A well-maintained fence can add curb appeal and privacy, which buyers value, but it is rarely a dollar-for-dollar return. A sagging or rotting fence can hurt impressions, so repairs matter more than the original cost.