The premium, decades-long-lifespan security fence

Wrought Iron / Steel Ornamental fence cost: $35–$85 per linear foot

True wrought iron has largely been replaced by welded steel tubing finished to look like it, which keeps cost from being even higher than it already is. It remains the premium choice for buyers who want maximum security and a fence that will realistically outlast the house's next two owners.

  • $55/ftnational average
  • 30–50 yrstypical lifespan
  • Mediummaintenance
  • Lowprivacy level
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Where wrought iron wins

  • Strongest and most difficult-to-breach of the common materials
  • Can last 30–50 years with periodic repainting
  • Custom scrollwork and finials are available for a distinct look

Where it doesn't

  • Most expensive material on this list per linear foot
  • Needs repainting every 5–7 years to prevent rust at weld points
  • Heaviest material — increases both shipping and labor cost

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Estimate your fence cost

Answer a few questions about your project. The estimate updates instantly, and every dollar in the breakdown links back to the assumption that produced it.

Fence material

ft

A typical quarter-acre backyard perimeter runs 130–180 ft. Measure along the exact fence line, not your lot's square footage.

Height

Estimated installed cost

Live

$9,325

$5,400 – $13,250 for 150 ft · a wide range — site conditions matter a lot here

  • Materials 60% $5,580
  • Labor 37% $3,420
  • Gates 3% $325

Cost breakdown

  • Wrought Iron, materials + labor (150 ft) $5,250–$12,750
  • 1 × Walk gate (3–4 ft) $150–$500
Why this number?

Wrought Iron, materials + labor (150 ft). Wrought Iron installs for a national average of $35–$85 per linear foot at 6 ft height on flat ground. 62% 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.

Read the full methodology →

$60per foot
20posts
3.8labor days
Compare materials →

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

Fence cost by material, per linear foot

Fully installed pricing — materials, standard hardware, and labor — for a 6 ft fence on flat ground. Your project will land somewhere in each range depending on style, height, and site conditions, which is exactly what the calculator above adjusts for.

Fence installation cost per linear foot by material, 2026
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
Wrought Iron / Steel Ornamental $35 $85 $55 30–50 yrs Medium
Composite $30 $60 $42 25–30 yrs Low
Split Rail $8 $20 $14 15–20 yrs Low

Straight answers

Wrought Iron / Steel Ornamental fence cost — frequently asked questions

How much does a wrought iron / steel ornamental fence cost per linear foot?

A wrought iron / steel ornamental fence installed by a professional costs $35–$85 per linear foot nationally, averaging around $55/ft, at a standard 6 ft height on flat ground. About 62% of that figure is the material itself; the remainder is labor.

How long does a wrought iron / steel ornamental fence last?

Most wrought iron / steel ornamental fences last 30–50 years with medium maintenance. Climate, soil moisture, and how consistently it's maintained can shift that range in either direction.

What does 100 feet of wrought iron / steel ornamental fencing cost installed?

At the national average of $55/ft, 100 linear feet of wrought iron / steel ornamental fencing runs about $5500 installed, with a realistic range of $3500–$8500 before gates, removal, or regional adjustments. Use the calculator above to add those in for an exact figure.

Is wrought iron / steel ornamental fencing high maintenance?

Wrought Iron / Steel Ornamental needs regular upkeep to hit its full lifespan. Most expensive material on this list per linear foot