How Much Does a Fence Cost in Los Angeles? (2025 Guide)
Los Angeles homeowners often face sticker shock when planning a new fence. Between steep prices and neighborhood codes, it’s natural to ask “How much does a fence cost?” in L.A. In sunny California, fences are common for privacy and style, but labor and materials here tend to be pricier. For an average Angeleno, expect to spend a few thousand dollars on a typical backyard fence. Recent data show the average fence installation in Los Angeles is about $3,051 (most fall between $1,734 and $4,422). In other words, fence prices typically run about $15–$60 per linear foot here, averaging around $29/ft, depending on materials and size.
Many L.A. sellers, when faced with a worn fence, wonder if it’s worth replacing – or if they should just sell the house and avoid the expense. If you find yourself thinking “I need to sell my house fast in Los Angeles,” remember that MaxNet Homes can help you avoid costly repairs altogether. (Read our guide “When Was My House Built? A Los Angeles Homeowner’s Guide to Finding Out” to learn more about your home’s history, which can inform renovation decisions.)
Fence Cost Factors in Los Angeles
Several key factors drive Los Angeles fence costs:
Length and Height: Fences are priced per foot. A longer fence means more material and labor. For example, Angi’s data shows installing 100 linear feet can cost $2,100–$2,350 (and up) in LA. Taller fences (like 8 ft vs. 6 ft) need more lumber/posts and can cost 10–20% more per foot.
Material Type: Wood, vinyl, chain-link, iron, and composite all have different price tags. Luxury materials (hardwoods, custom iron, composite) run higher. We’ll detail material costs below.
Style/Design: Simple styles (standard dog-ear wood pickets or chain-link) are cheaper. Decorative styles (horizontal boards, custom gates, post caps, cables, or lattice) add labor and parts. For instance, custom horizontal redwood fences can start around $105 per foot.
Labor & Terrain: Even in L.A.’s mild climate, labor can be a big chunk. Labor often equals half the cost or more. Steep or rocky yards (common in parts of L.A.) increase labor time and cost. Obstacles like large trees or bad access (narrow driveways) can add hundreds to your quote.
Permits and Fees: Most Los Angeles municipalities require a fence permit. Angi notes permit fees typically run $20–$60. Always check local rules – some city or HOAs may limit fence height or style, affecting cost. Don’t forget post bases (concrete) and waste removal (old fence demo is ~$4–$6 per foot).
By planning for these factors, you’ll better understand quotes. For example, a straightforward 6-ft wood privacy fence on flat ground will be much cheaper than a custom 8-ft iron fence on a hillside.
Material and Style Options
Choosing your fence material is one of the biggest cost decisions. Redwood and cedar are classic Southern California woods. Redwood fences (shown above) are durable and beautiful, but they carry a premium. Angi reports that redwood fencing materials cost about $8–$20 per foot, with labor $10–$15 per foot. In total, a redwood privacy fence typically runs $18–$35 per linear foot installed. That means about $3,600–$7,000 for 200 feet of redwood fence. (On the plus side, redwood is native to California, so material costs can be a bit lower here.) Other wood fences (cedar, fir, pine) are somewhat cheaper – think $20–$50 per foot installed for a basic wood privacy fence. Fancy designs or higher-quality woods push the price up. For instance, a horizontal redwood fence is a luxury style that can start around $105/ft.
Wood still dominates in many LA yards. It provides a natural look and good sound/privacy. A standard 6-foot wood privacy fence will often cost roughly $30–$40 per foot in Los Angeles (installed). Unfinished pine or spruce will be on the low end, while pressure-treated cedar or hardwood redwood hit the high end of that range. We can break down typical fence types and costs:
Wood (Privacy or Picket): Generally $20–$50 per linear foot installed. Simple board-on-board privacy fences cost more than basic picket fences. Wood picket fences may cost around $15–$30/ft, while a 6-ft privacy style is closer to $30–$50/ft.
Vinyl/PVC Fences: Clean and low-maintenance, vinyl panels average $30–$60 per foot. White vinyl picket or privacy panels resist rot, but they often cost slightly more than wood. Expect a vinyl privacy fence to be towards the higher end of that range.
Chain-Link: The cheapest common fence. In L.A., basic galvanized chain-link starts around $9–$30 per foot. It’s practical but offers no privacy (unless you add slats, which costs more). A 6-ft tall chain-link runs on the higher end of that range.
Wrought Iron / Metal: These are upscale, especially ornamental styles. Iron fences typically go for about $50–$85 per foot. A basic iron security fence might be around $50/ft, while ornate designs or steel options approach $80+/ft. Expect a simple steel fence (like a decorative front-yard fence) to cost at least $50–$60/ft.
Composite / Synthetic: Composite (wood-plastic blends) can mimic wood but usually cost $20–$85 per foot. Lower-end composite starts near vinyl prices, while premium faux-wood composites are at the top end. These resist rot and pests but are often quite expensive per foot.
Other Options: There are also bamboo, pre-made vinyl, and specialty fences. For example, a bamboo privacy fence might be $25–$50/ft, though not widely used in L.A. Composite horizontal fences, cable-rail systems, or security mesh all have niche costs (cable-railing can start ~$100/ft for handrail-style).
In short, wood and vinyl dominate most residential projects, with average costs in the $25–$50/ft range. Chain-link and simple railings are cheapest; ornate iron or composite fences are at the top end.
Average Fence and Installation Costs
What does this all add up to? For budgeting, here are some ballpark figures:
Nationwide averages: A typical fence installation in the U.S. averages $2,000–$5,000, but can be as little as $500 or over $10,000 for very large or premium projects. In Los Angeles, homeowners skew toward the higher side of that range.
Los Angeles average: Angi’s 2025 analysis puts LA’s average at ~$3,051. They also break it down by size: for example, a 100-ft new wood fence costs about $2,100–$2,350, and 200 ft runs ~$4,100–$7,500. Roughly speaking, most projects come in under $5,000.
Examples: HomeGuide reports that 100 linear feet generally runs $2,000–$6,000 (varies by height and style). For 200 ft, average is $4,000–$12,000. Angi’s data for Los Angeles is in line with this (since $3,000 avg at ~100 ft is $30/ft).
Breakdowns: On average, you might spend $20–$60 per foot depending on options. High-quality fences (like all-redwood or decorative wrought iron) push toward $50+/ft. Even a modest wood fence often costs at least $15–$25/ft for material+labor.
Don’t forget extras: Gates typically cost several hundred dollars each (standard single wood gate might be $200–$400+, double gates much more). Staining or sealing a wood fence adds about $3.50–$13 per foot. And if you have an old fence, removal/disposal adds roughly $4–$6 per foot. These costs mean a “finished” fence project (including gates and paint) can exceed the bare-fence estimate.
Installing Your Fence: DIY vs. Hiring Pros
You can install it yourself to save on labor, but be realistic about skill and time. DIY can cut the labor bill, but you must still buy/rent tools, get permits, and handle the grunt work. Installing posts, leveling, and making sure panels are plumb is physically hard. If done right, DIY costs roughly the price of materials only. For example, even just buying wood boards, posts, and concrete (no labor) for a 100-ft wood fence might be $2,000–$3,000 depending on wood type.
Hiring a professional fence company ensures a permit is pulled, the fence meets code, and you’re not left with a wonky fence. Pros also include things like digging post holes ($10–$15 per foot of fence for labor) and leveling. In Los Angeles, reliable fence crews charge a premium – often the bottom line is that labor can be 30–50% of your total cost.
Here’s roughly what professionals charge per linear foot (total installed, labor+materials) in L.A.: Wood $20–$50/ft, vinyl $30–$60/ft, chain-link $9–$30/ft. So if you DIY, you might pay $8–$30/ft for materials and expect to put in many weekends of work.
Saving Money on Your Fence
Get multiple quotes. Don’t accept the first number. Compare local Los Angeles fence contractors and get itemized bids (materials vs labor).
Simpler materials and designs. A plain wood dog-ear fence is cheaper than a custom stained horizontal fence. Choose mid-range cedar or untreated pine for savings.
Off-season work. Winter or early spring is slower for fence companies, so you might negotiate a better price than in spring/summer.
Do prep work. Clear brush and remove debris before pros arrive. Clearing vegetation yourself can save time.
Permit shopping. Check if your city has a flat fee or if a pro can secure permits faster. Sometimes buying a permit yourself ($20–$60) and prepping the site can avoid extra contractor time.
Reuse materials. If possible, use salvaged wood or recycle an old gate. (This is limited, but sometimes old hardwood boards can be repurposed as fencing.)
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always DIY. One wrong step can mean repair costs. Balance your skill and schedule when deciding.
When Building a Fence Isn’t the Answer
Sometimes, Angelenos realize “enough—this fence is too expensive”. Major life changes (divorce, inheritance, foreclosure) often make selling a better choice than sinking money into repairs. If you think “how much does it cost to put up a fence” and decide it’s beyond your budget, consider alternatives. MaxNet Homes buys houses in Los Angeles as-is for cash. You won’t have to pay for a new fence (or any repairs).
“Tricia came by that same day… [she] was knowledgeable, easy to talk to, transparent... and genuinely cared about our situation.” – a Los Angeles homeowner.
MaxNet Homes is founded by Tricia Watts (featured on HGTV’s Flipping 101), who prides herself on treating homeowners with respect. Tricia emphasizes “doing right by the people” she works with. Whether you’re dealing with foreclosure, liens, or life transitions, MaxNet offers a hassle-free cash sale. We handle the title issues and even pay closing costs, so you don’t have to spend extra on your home – like replacing that fence.
Even if you’re not selling, our team can answer questions about home improvements. Check out our guides (for example, When Was My House Built? … ) to make informed decisions about your property.
FAQs about Fence Costs
Q: How much does a fence cost in Los Angeles?
A: It varies widely by size and material. On average, Angelenos spend about $3,000 on a fence. Most projects (like a 6-ft wood fence around a backyard) run $1,500–$5,000 in total. Per foot, expect $20–$60/linear foot, with cheaper chain-link and higher-end wood or vinyl accordingly.
Q: How much does a 6-foot privacy fence cost per foot?
A: In Los Angeles, a basic 6-ft wood privacy fence typically costs $25–$40 per linear foot (installed). Premium woods like redwood or custom styles can be $40–$50/ft or more. Vinyl privacy panels are similar range ($30–$60/ft).
Q: What is the cost to build a fence around a yard?
A: Multiply the linear footage of your yard by the per-foot cost. For example, 100 ft of simple wood fence might be $2,000–$3,500 (including materials and labor). Remember to add extras: permits ($20–$60), any gates ($300+ each), and staining/painting ($4–$15/ft more).
Q: Can I lower costs by going DIY?
A: Possibly. You’ll save on labor but still pay for materials, tools, and permits. It’s only cheaper if you have the time and skill to install posts, attach boards, and ensure everything is level. Errors can end up costing more. A professional warranty and speed may be worth the cost.
Q: How much does it cost to replace an old fence?
A: Similar to new installs, replacement usually runs $30–$80 per foot (higher end if demolition/hauling needed). Removing an old fence typically adds $4–$6 per foot.
Q: Do fences add value to my home?
A: A neat, well-installed fence can boost curb appeal and privacy, but it may not significantly increase appraisal value. Budget accordingly. If selling soon, skipping a new fence (by selling for cash) can avoid the upfront cost entirely.
Next Steps: Speak with MaxNet Homes
If fencing costs are stressing you out, it might be time to consider your options. You have alternatives: selling for cash can save you time, money, and hassle. MaxNet Homes is a trusted cash home buyer in Los Angeles that can offer you an all-cash purchase “as-is”. No agents, no repairs, no unexpected fees. We’ve earned an A+ BBB rating and hundreds of 5-star reviews by helping homeowners in tough spots.
📞 Call 1-844-MAXNET-8 or fill out our online form to get your free cash offer. Whether you want to sell my house fast or just learn more, our team (led by Tricia Watts) will be there to guide you. As one seller said, working with us was a “fast, stress-free sale” that helped them move forward.
👉 Ready to skip that fence and sell instead? Get your competitive cash offer today!
