The average chain link fence cost varies but the benefits are proven. Most people spend between $1,273 and $3,533, averaging $2,090 for a standard-size yard. Chain-link fencing allows you to enclose a space without blocking views of the neighborhood. Chain link fences are also pretty budget-friendly and end up costing less than wood fences, composite fences, and solid metal fences. The cost to install a chain link fence depends on the materials, size, and type.
Cost Breakdown to Install a Chain Link Fence
The size of your fence and its overall dimensions is a primary factor in cost, as it determines the materials required and how much labor is needed to get the job done.
Height and Length
Higher fences cost more with a standard chain link fence height of six feet costing $10-$20 per linear foot, while an eight foot fence costing $12-$34 per square foot. Feel free to mix up the heights and length to save money. You can go higher in areas that require more security and lower in areas that don’t.
Thickness or Gauge
The fence’s thickness, or gauge, affects the cost because it determines the cost of materials. The higher the gauge, the thinner the metal stands, which means a lower cost. Thicker strands last longer, provide more security, and are generally more resistant to rust and bad weather. A thin 11.5 gauge costs $1.50-$7 per square foot while a common durable 9 gauge chain link fence costs $2-$10 per linear foot.
Diamond Size
“Diamond size” refers to how large the opening is between each chain link, as this opening looks like the diamond in a deck of cards. The smaller the diamond size, the more secure, and more expensive, the fence. A 2” x 2” costs $3-$8 per linear foot. Decreasing the diamond hole to 1” x 1” costs $8-$15 per linear foot.
Type
You can customize your chain link fence depending on the type of look you want and the amount of money you’re willing to spend.
Galvanized
A galvanized chain link fence costs $5-$8 per linear foot and results in a strong and utilitarian design.
Hurricane or Cyclone
The terms cyclone fences or hurricane fences are alternative nicknames coming from the design’s reputation for standing up against high winds, water, and the damaging effects of salt. This chain link fence costs between $8-$40 per linear foot.
Wood or Metal
You can also combine the strength of a chain link fence with the classic look or a wood or metal design. Chain links can be attached between two wood posts for between $5-$45 per linear foot. Wooden posts alone will cost between $10-$30 a piece. You can also connect chain lines to wrought iron posts for a total of $30-$100 per linear foot.
Posts
Your fence needs posts to help it remain sturdy. Putting in posts costs around $3 per linear foot, or $30 per post. Most posts are made from metal, but some choose wooden posts for a more natural, but more expensive, look.
Labor
Labor for chain link fence installation goes from $25-$50 per hour, depending on experience, and this type of job takes anywhere from 24 to 72 hours to complete. That puts the total around $1,000-$3,000 for a chain link fence of 150 linear feet. Labor costs increase with taller fences and custom shapes and sizes.
Additional Chain Link Fence Costs
Coating or painting
Chain link fences are metal and vulnerable to rust, particularly during heavy rain season or harsh winters. Coating your fence with a more durable material helps make your fence resistant to rust and adds a bit of visual flair ranging from $6 to $8 per linear foot for powder coating and $10 to $30 for colored vinyl.
If your chain link fence doesn’t have a powder-coated finish, you can paint it using an oil-based primer for $30-$100 total including paint, primer and paint brushes.
Gates
A standard gate costs $100-$450, which includes materials and labor. Automated rolling gates are more expensive, at $500 to $1,800, depending on their size and features.
Privacy Screens
You can increase your security by adding privacy screens to the fencing for $3-$15 per linear foot. These wood, vinyl, or aluminum slats help fill in the gaps in the chain-link fence.
Prep-Work
When you’re planning to install a chain link fence, you need to know that it will be the correct size and in the right spot. That’s where the prep-work comes in.
Permit Costs
You should check if your area requires you to have a permit in order to install a chain link fence. If so, you’ll need to add that price to your overall costs.
Old Fence Removal
If you have an existing fence, you should remove it before installing your new one. It usually costs between $3 and $5 per linear foot. Try salvaging the scrap and mesh of the removed fence as you can sell it for as much as $6 per linear foot.
Land Clearing
Land clearing costs as little as $250 for a half-acre that is only lightly forested. If your fence cuts through a densely forested area, prices will start at $1,800 per half-acre.
Land Surveying
You’ll need enough space to anchor the posts and string the chain link fence. It’s wise to hire a local land surveyor to conduct a basic boundary survey so you don’t mistakenly build a fence on your neighbor’s property. Land surveying costs about $525 on average, depending on the size of your property, the time of year, your terrain type, and whether it’s a rush job.
Materials
Chain link fences come in several finishes, including powder-coated metal, galvanized metal, vinyl-coated metal and bare metal. Chain link fences require posts every eight to 10 feet for stability. Metal posts usually range from $6-$30 per post, while wood posts cost between $10 and $50.
Tips to Save Money When Getting a Chain Link Fence
- Design the fence to include as few corners as possible. Each corner requires a post and additional hardware, so fewer corners equals savings on material costs.
- Install some or all portions of the fence yourself.
- Choose the lowest fence height possible for your needs.
- Choose bare or powder-coated metal instead of vinyl or galvanized.
- Consider a lighter gauge or larger diamond pattern.
- Check with neighbors to see if anyone else is thinking about fence installation and consider negotiating with a contractor for a lower price for everyone or split the cost of a chain link fence for the portion that sits between both of your homes.
DIY Chain Link Fence Installation vs. Hiring a Tasker
Installing a chain link fence yourself will probably cost half of what you would pay hiring a contractor, around $650 to $1,700. However, you’ll need quite a few tools and supplies, as well as some knowledge and proper research on how to install a chain link fence. Buying or renting equipment will also drive up the cost. You’ll also likely need around 25 hours to spend on the project, or even more, depending on how many snags you run into.
Labor costs for installing a fence usually range from $5 to $25 per linear foot. However, Taskers are skilled enough to finish the job quickly and overcome any potential obstacles. They also come prepared with tools and safety equipment that you won’t have to supply or rent, saving you even more money and stress.
Chain Link Fence Cost FAQs
Does a chain link fence increase the property value?
A chain link fence does not lower your property value, but chain links are not the most attractive materials—so it probably won’t raise the value either. Putting in a functional and attractive gate helps up your resale value.
How long does a chain link fence last?
The life expectancy of a chain link fence is around 15 years when properly maintained. Chain link is more durable than wood, and you can increase the lifespan by coating it in something durable like galvanized metal.
Are chain link fences cheaper than wood fences?
Chain link fences are less expensive than wood fences. Installing a wood fence costs anywhere from 20% to 30% more than a chain link fence. Save money on wood fences by going with cedar or cypress.
