Fence cost guide
Fence DIY vs contractor cost
Use linear footage, gates, posts, and local constraints to compare fence DIY and contractor ranges.
Reviewed · May 9, 2026Start with the calculator
Use the calculator first so the DIY and contractor comparison starts from the same project size and assumptions.
When DIY can make sense
- Short straight fence runs
- Easy soil
- No major slope
- Clear property lines
When a contractor can make sense
- Long runs
- Multiple gates
- Slope or rocky soil
- Permit or HOA requirements
How to decide
- DIY can make sense for short, straight runs where post digging is predictable.
- Contractors are usually worth pricing when height, gates, slope, corners, or property-line confidence become the hard part.
- Check that every quote states height, material, gate count, post spacing, and removal scope.
Worked example
120 linear ft, 6 ft tall, wood fence.
Fence length
120 linear ft
6 ft height, 1.00x cost factor
DIY material total
$1,710–$4,420
Fence materials and height-scaled gate allowance
Contractor total
$2,910–$7,420
Materials plus labor
Starter shopping list
- wood fence materials 120 linear ft
- Posts 16 ea
- Concrete 16 bags
- Gate hardware 1 gate set
This example is generated from the same calculator logic used on the Fence cost calculator page.
Cost factors to compare
- Fence material
- Height
- Gate count
- Post spacing
- Soil and slope
Contractor quote checklist
- Material and height listed
- Gate count and hardware listed
- Post depth and concrete listed
- Permit responsibility clear
- Old fence removal listed
Common mistakes
- Guessing property lines
- Underestimating digging time
- Forgetting gate hardware and concrete
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