Wood Fence Labor Cost Calculator
Enter your fence length, your local install rate per linear foot, and the number of gates, and this wood fence labor cost calculator returns the labor bill as a low-to-high range — labor only; materials are a separate budget.
Typical fence labor runs $12–$25 per linear foot; gates add about $250 of labor each. Labor only — materials extra.
Estimates only — not financial advice. This calculator gives approximate figures for planning. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice; check with a qualified professional before making decisions.
How the wood fence labor cost calculator works
Fence installers mostly quote labor per linear foot — digging, setting posts, hanging rails and pickets — typically $12–$25 depending on the market and soil. Gates are priced per gate (about $250 of labor here) because framing, hinges, and latches take a fixed chunk of time regardless of fence length.
The ±15% range covers rocky soil, slopes, old-fence removal, and market differences. This is the labor side only: materials usually run a similar amount again, sometimes more.
labor = L × rate + gates × $250 · low = labor × 0.85, high = labor × 1.15
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Wood fence labor cost calculator FAQ
How much is fence labor per foot?
Typically $12–$25 per linear foot installed, labor only — so 150 ft of fence runs about $1,800–$3,750 in labor before materials and gates. The default here is $18.
What affects wood fence labor cost?
Rocky or clay soil, slopes, tree roots, removing an old fence, and poor access for equipment all push labor up. Flat, clear runs in soft soil price at the low end.
How much does a fence gate cost to install?
About $250 of labor per gate for framing, posts, hinges, and a latch — plus the gate material itself. Wide double gates for vehicles cost more.
How much do I save building a fence DIY?
Roughly the entire labor figure: on a 150 ft fence that is about $2,700 at $18/ft — though you will spend several weekends on it and need a post-hole digger or auger rental.
Does terrain change the labor price?
Yes — slopes need stepped or racked sections, rock needs auger work or blasting, and both slow the crew. Expect the high end of the range (or above) on difficult ground.