What a full backyard perimeter costs, not just the per-foot rate
Backyard fence cost: $1,500–$25,000+ for a typical yard
A "backyard fence" isn't a material — it's a project size. The total cost depends far more on your yard's perimeter length than on which material you eventually choose, which is why the range above is so wide: a small urban backyard and a large suburban quarter-acre lot can differ by 3–4x in total cost even with the identical material. Use the calculator below with your actual fence-line length (not your lot's square footage) to get a number specific to your yard.
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Estimated installed cost
Live$3,475
$1,950 – $5,000 for 150 ft · a wide range — site conditions matter a lot here
- Materials 50% $1,733
- Labor 41% $1,417
- Gates 9% $325
Cost breakdown
- Wood (Pine), materials + labor (150 ft) $1,800–$4,500
- 1 × Walk gate (3–4 ft) $150–$500
Why this number?
Wood (Pine), materials + labor (150 ft). Wood (Pine) installs for a national average of $12–$30 per linear foot at 6 ft height on flat ground. 55% of that figure is materials; the rest is labor.
1 × Walk gate (3–4 ft). Gates cost more per foot than straight fence line because each one needs a separate frame, hinges, and a latch that has to be built to swing freely.
This is a research-based estimate, not a quote. Get at least two written, itemized bids from licensed local contractors before signing anything. We don't sell your information or route you to lead-gen buyers.
2026 national pricing
Common backyard fence materials
The five materials homeowners choose most often for a full backyard perimeter. Your total depends far more on your yard's linear footage than on which of these you pick.
| Material | Low / ft | High / ft | Avg / ft | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $12 | $30 | $20 | 15–20 yrs | High |
| Cedar | $20 | $45 | $30 | 20–30 yrs | Medium |
| Vinyl (PVC) | $25 | $55 | $38 | 25–30 yrs | Low |
| Chain Link | $10 | $35 | $20 | 15–20 yrs | Low |
| Aluminum | $25 | $50 | $35 | 25–40 yrs | Low |
Straight answers
Backyard fence cost — frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to fence an average backyard?
A typical quarter-acre backyard has a fence-line perimeter of roughly 130–180 linear feet. At the national average for a mid-range material like wood or vinyl ($20–$38/ft installed), that works out to roughly $3,000–$6,800 for materials and labor before gates or a permit — small urban yards can run under $2,000, while larger suburban lots can exceed $10,000.
Do I need to fence my entire backyard perimeter?
Not necessarily — many homeowners fence only the sides not already bordered by the house, an existing fence, a wall, or a natural barrier, which can meaningfully reduce total linear footage and cost. Measure only the runs you actually need to install.
What is the most popular backyard fence material?
Wood (pressure-treated pine or cedar) remains the most commonly installed backyard fence material nationally, largely because it balances privacy, cost, and a familiar look — though vinyl has grown in popularity specifically among homeowners who plan to stay in their home 10+ years and want to avoid recurring maintenance.