For blocking sightlines, not just marking a boundary
Privacy fence cost: $12–$60 per linear foot
A privacy fence is defined by function, not material — any fence with a solid, gap-free panel tall enough to block sightlines counts, which is why "privacy fence" pricing spans four very different materials rather than one. The four options below are the only ones on our list rated High for privacy: pressure-treated pine and cedar (traditional, lowest cost), vinyl (no maintenance, higher upfront cost), and composite (wood look, highest durability).
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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
Privacy-rated materials compared
These are the only materials on our list rated High for privacy — solid, gap-free panels tall enough to block sightlines.
| 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 |
| Composite | $30 | $60 | $42 | 25–30 yrs | Low |
Straight answers
Privacy fence cost — frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest privacy fence material?
Pressure-treated pine is the least expensive privacy-rated material, typically $12–$30 per linear foot installed. It needs more upkeep than the alternatives, so factor in $500–$1,500 per decade for staining and sealing when comparing total cost against vinyl or composite.
What height should a privacy fence be?
6 ft is the standard privacy fence height in most U.S. municipalities without triggering a permit. 8 ft fences block sightlines more completely and reduce street noise further, but typically require a building permit and add 25–35% to material and labor cost.
Does a privacy fence need to be solid with no gaps?
For full visual privacy, yes — boards should be installed with minimal or no gap (a "board-on-board" or shadowbox style closes gaps between individual boards). Fences with visible gaps, like standard picket styles, provide a filtered view rather than true privacy.