How much does it cost to install a picket fence?

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Price per linear foot

$10 - $60

low

$10

median

$35

high

$60

Low, median and high bar chart distribuiton

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No fence spells class and charm more than a picket fence. In fact, a white picket fence is a quintessential symbol of a lovely suburban home. But how much should you pay for its installation?

The average picket fence cost is $30 per linear foot, but the final fee depends on several factors. This guide will discuss everything you need to know about the cost of picket fencing and help you get accurate quotes from contractors.

Price list for picket fence installation

Popular US City

Average Cost of Picket Fencing (Per Linear Foot)

New York City, New York

$15–$45

Los Angeles, California

$15–$20

Seattle, Washington

$20–$40

Chicago, Illinois

$20–$35

Miami, Florida

$15–$30

Austin, Texas

$10–$30

Denver, Colorado

$10–$60


Usually, contractors will consider the height and area in determining the cost to build or install a picket fence. Picket fences are about 35 to 50 inches short, so they’re cheaper than other styles.

However, the average price can vary, depending on the location. It can get pricier in places with higher costs of living. Below are other variables that might also impact picket fencing quotes.

What affects picket fence installation costs?

a wooden picket fence

At least three factors have a huge impact on picket installation prices. These are materials, project complexity, and additional services.


Material

The material is the biggest factor influencing the cost of picket fence installation in the US. 

Material

Description

Timber

Timber is a favorite among picket-fence fans because it easily goes well with home aesthetics. But the biggest challenge is maintenance. Staining, for example, can easily shore up the overall price of a wooden fence to at least 10% compared to an aluminum fence. Overall, the average cost of a wood picket fence is around $5 per foot.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the second preferred picket fence material because it is versatile, durable, and non-corrosive. In other words, it’s easy to maintain. However, the typical aluminum picket fence cost is higher than wood at $20 per linear foot.

Steel

A steel picket fence is popular for contemporary or industrial homes. Steel is also a durable material that can withstand extreme weather conditions. The cost of a steel picket fence depends on the type you choose. Galvanized steel is the most affordable option, costing around $25 per linear foot. 

PVC

PVC is a synthetic plastic known for being weather-resistant and low maintenance. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to install. The cost of a PVC picket fence varies according to type. The most common is uPVC, with a price tag of around $30 per linear foot.

Vinyl

Vinyl has the same benefits as PVC, with the bonus of mimicking the look of timber. The price usually starts at $15.


Project complexity

How much is a picket fence? It also depends on project complexity, including:

  • Area size. The bigger the land that needs fencing, the pricier it gets.
  • Regulations. Local zoning and land laws can make a simple fence installation project more time-consuming, stressful, and, therefore, expensive. Contractors might have to file the proper paperwork, which is an additional cost, before commencing the job.
  • Purpose. Picket fences are usually decorative. But they can also have other functions, such as containing animals or providing privacy. The more complex the desired function, the pricier the job might be. For example, garden fencing could cost more than a privacy fence because the former is often shorter and has more intricate designs.
  • Terrain difficulty. Is the area sloped or hilly? If so, the contractor will need to level the land before installing the fence, adding to the picket fence cost.
  • Fence sections. If you have a lot of obstacles in your yard, such as trees and bushes, you might need more sections built. More sections mean more posts, panels, and work—and a higher bill.


Additional services

The cost of a picket fence will also vary according to the additional services you need. Some contractors are ready to go the extra mile for a reasonable price. They might offer:

  • Replacement and removal of old picket fences
  • Fence design
  • Landscaping
  • Fence staining and sealing
  • Emergency picket fence repair
  • Land leveling or contouring

☞ Related guide: How much does fence repair cost?

Hire a picket fence installer on Airtasker

a man sanding a picket fence

Overall, many things can affect the cost of picket fence installation. However, you’ll have better control over your spending through Airtasker. Knowing the cost of picket fence installation is the first step. The next one is to find the best contractor for the job—one who can give you excellent service for the budget you have in mind. 

Connect with a local Tasker by posting a task. To find the right person, include these details in the request form:

  • Your location and budget
  • Your preferred date and time
  • Size of the land you want to fence
  • Type of fence you like
  • Other services you’re looking for

You’ll shortly get offers and be able to choose the best professional for your needs.

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FAQs

A picket fence is a type of fence traditionally used as a border around a property. It has a typical height of 35 to 50 inches and consists of evenly spaced vertical boards, or pickets, attached to horizontal rails.

Picket fences are often used for decorative purposes, but they can serve other functions, such as improving privacy or keeping animals inside a property. 

The simplest jobs that cover only a small land area on a level or easy-to-navigate terrain are more likely to finish in two to three days. More complex ones, especially those that involve the removal of old fences or staining of wood fences, might take at least a week.

DIY picket fence installation isn’t always affordable. It requires thoughtful planning, the right materials for the terrain or soil type, and an understanding of the local regulations. Unless you have all these, you might be making a costly mistake.

Pickets should be at least two inches off the ground to prevent moisture from damaging them.

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