How Much Does a Vinyl Fence Cost?

Dawn M. Smith
Written by Dawn M. Smith
Updated January 21, 2022
White vinyl fence in backyard with nice landscaping in the foreground and background
Photo: ghornephoto / Getty Images

The average cost for a vinyl fence is $3,720 but ranges between $2,230 to $5,380, depending on the style, labor needs, and the total length of the fence

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A fenced-in yard is a must if you have small kiddos or a pup running around—and vinyl fencing (also referred to as PVC) can be a great choice. The total length of the fence and the amount of labor needed for installation drive vinyl fencing costs, but starting your fence installation project in the winter can reduce costs and offer additional benefits. The average 200-foot fence costs $3,000 to $7,000, or $10 to $35 per linear foot.

How Much Does Vinyl Fencing Cost?

To calculate your vinyl fencing costs, you’ll need to zero in on what purpose your fencing serves: aesthetics, security, or privacy. Vinyl fencing is priced by linear foot; the taller the fence, the higher the fence installation costs—something to think about if you have a dog with serious Houdini skills, especially if he can scale a standard 6-foot privacy fence.

Costs Per Linear Foot

The costs for vinyl fencing include the fencing itself, materials, and labor. For standard 4- or 6-foot vinyl fencing, you’ll spend $15 to $40 per linear foot. Materials are $10 to $30 per linear foot, and labor charges add up to about $5 to $10 per linear foot. Depending on the condition of your yard, (aka, how level your lawn is), the style of fence you choose, and add-ons such as extra gates, labor costs can increase to an additional $35 to $50 per hour.

Vinyl Fence Installation Costs by Linear Foot

Linear FootCost
4 feet$15–$25
6 feet$25–$40
8 feet$30–$45
10 feet$35–$50
12 feet$40–$60

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Vinyl Fence Yourself?

You’ll save the labor fees on a DIY vinyl fence. Doing it yourself can cut costs down to $5 to $10 per linear foot or $35 to $50 per hour, but unless you're a perfectionist with plenty of spare time, installing a vinyl fence might not be the best home project. 

Vinyl installation requires extreme precision. The vinyl pieces are purchased pre-cut, which leaves little room for error. A mistake will send you back to the home improvement store (probably more than once) to finish the job.

Costs of a Vinyl Fence vs. a Wood Fence

You could save money on a DIY fence project if you install a wood fence. The costs of a vinyl fence vs. a wood fence are similar, but you’ll save on labor if you properly plan and research the necessary skills. Plus, the learning curve is less steep than with vinyl fencing, making mistakes affordable and easy to correct. No need to sweat over busting the budget!

How Much Does a Vinyl Fence Cost by Style?

After filling Pinterest boards with custom vinyl fence choices, you’re ready to invest in a fencing system—but you need to know how much the perfect vinyl fence for your yard costs. Each manufacturer has various styles, but the privacy, three-rail (also known as horse fence), and picket fence are the most popular vinyl fencing choices.

Privacy Fence

A privacy fence conceals what is on each side of the fence and provides the most separation and security because the panels are solid or the slats have little space between them. The cost of a vinyl privacy fence per linear foot is $25 to $60, and the average price is $3,000 to $18,000.

Three-Rail or Horse Fence

Three-rail vinyl fencing is distinctive because of the three horizontal rails running between posts. This style remains popular because of affordability, and the charming appearance adds a homey feel to your property. Three-rail fencing costs $15 to $25 per linear foot and, on average, ranges from $1,500 to $7,500 total.

Picket Fence

To instantly add a classic Americana look to your home with vinyl picket fencing, you’ll spend $15 to $20 per linear foot or about $1,500 to $4,500. Typically 3 to 4 feet tall, the picket fence is one of the most popular front-yard fence styles.

A white vinyl fence enclosing a backyard
Photo: ghornephoto / Getty Images

What Factors Influence the Cost of Vinyl Fencing?

Many factors influence vinyl fencing costs, from labor to add-ons, but one often overlooked factor is your neighborhood or HOA restrictions. Without knowing your fence limits (height, material, location), you could make a costly mistake involving fines or removal. So make sure everything is A-OK before you break ground!

Fence Height

Fence height has a significant impact on the cost. A 6-foot vinyl fence is $25–$40 by linear foot. Weigh your need for curb appeal, privacy, and safety to figure out which fence height fits your needs.

Number of Fence Posts

The number of fence posts quickly drives up vinyl fence installation fees because of the extra labor. Setting posts require intense work to mix the concrete and auger post holes into the ground.

Vinyl Fence Gates

Vinyl fence gates are $300 to $1,500 to purchase and install, in addition to the fence. If you choose a gate with high-end features, or it’s difficult to match your gate to the existing fence, the price increases.

Vinyl Fence Add-Ons

You can customize your fencing in different ways, including colors and upgrades, but these changes will add $1 to $30 per linear foot. 

Talk with your installer about these possibilities:

  • Color: White vinyl is the most affordable and popular, but other colors are available

  • Thickness: High-end brands have thicker, more durable panels and posts

  • Hardware: You can choose from builder-grade and designer-grade handles, hinges, and posts

  • Decorative Embellishments: These include latticework, woven patterns, lights, and post caps

FAQs About Vinyl Installation

Why should I pick vinyl for my fence?

Vinyl fencing stays popular with homeowners because it’s low maintenance, has a life span of 10 to 30 years, and offers privacy. Homeowners also pick vinyl for their fence because of the high return on investment, about 60%, depending on your location.

What should I consider when searching for professional vinyl fence installation?

To find a professional, start with referrals from neighbors with fencing styles you prefer. Professionals recommended contacting three fence companies near you for estimates.  Consider these questions when you interview companies for vinyl fence installation.

  • What is your timeline for this project, and what is the breakdown of costs?

  • Will you handle the city permits and paperwork, or do I?

  • Who contacts the utility companies to mark for water, gas, and power lines?

  • Do you offer a warranty for your work?

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