How Much Does It Cost to Install a Chain Link Fence?

In this guide

Chain Link Fence Cost per Foot

Installing a chain link fence is more affordable than other fencing options. This type of fencing can be a great option for front yards or backyards. It comes in many heights, gauges, and metal types. Keep in mind that costs vary depending on the type and height of the fence. The average cost for one linear foot of materials, including fencing fabric, posts, hardware, and top rail, is around $3 to $7 per linear foot. With installation, this averages $13 to $27 a linear foot.

Chain Link Fence Cost per Acre

For those with large yards, you may need to gather different pricing information from fencing companies. An acre constitutes 43,560 square feet of land and 836 linear feet to fence it in. If you live in a rural area, you may need to collect fencing cost per acre estimates. Keep in mind that it may not be the most economical option for acreage, unless you are installing it for security purposes. This is a less expensive option than steel or wood fencing, but it is more costly to install than a true wire fence would be in such large quantities. Below are the average costs for a chain link fence around sizes ranging from ¼ acre to 3 acres.

Average Cost of Chain Link Fence by Height

When deciding to install this type of fencing on your property, it’s important to consider the different height options. Many municipalities or HOA’s have a code that dictates the acceptable heights of fences in different situations. Keep in mind that there are usually different requirements for the front yard or back yard. Also, note that the higher it is, the more security you will have. It’s much easier to hop a 3 ft. fence than a 6 ft. one or higher. Prices vary depending on the height of the chain link. For this chart, prices are recorded for 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel with 2 in. diamond, as this is the most common type of chain link fencing used. Prices may vary slightly based on the supplier. Heights listed below are the most common for residential uses. Taller chain link fences can be found, usually for industrial applications.

Chain Link Fence Prices per Gauge

Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire used in chain link fencing. There are five common thicknesses. The lower the gauge, the thicker the wire. The thicker the wire, the stronger the wire and the stronger the fencing. Prices increase as thickness increases. For comparison purposes, prices in the chart reflect a 6 ft. high, 2 in. diamond, galvanized stainless steel fence.

Chain Link Fence Prices by Diamond Size

Chain link fencing can be made with different sizes of diamonds. Some types, like swimming pool fencing, have requirements for diamond size for safety purposes. In general, the smaller the diamond, the stronger and more secure it is. The diamond is measured diagonally in both directions. The inside dimensions are used, and the most common sizes are 1 in., 2 in., and 3 ½ in. by 5 in. The smaller the diamond, the more expensive because more wire is used. The prices below reflect a 4 ft. high, 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel fence.

Cyclone Fence Cost by Finish

Chain link fencing is also referred to as cyclone or hurricane fencing because it’s widely used in hurricane-prone areas. Wind and water can easily pass through chain link fencing, while other types of fencing are often flattened during major storms. Several finishes are available for chain link fencing. Each comes with its own set of pros, cons, and price. For comparison, hurricane fencing prices in this table reflect a 4 ft. fence with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds.

Galvanized Chain Link Fence Cost

Expect galvanized chain link fencing to cost $3.15 to $8.50 per linear foot for material. The cost of this fence installed averages $13.15 to $28.50. Galvanized chain link prices are competitive among manufacturers due to the popularity of the type. The galvanization process allows the fencing to last longer, but scratches and other wear can still cause it to rust and break down eventually. This type of fencing has an industrial look but still gets the job done to keep kids and pets securely in the yard.

Aluminum Coated Chain Link Fence Cost

Aluminized chain link fencing cost should be near $5.75 to $12 per linear foot for the material only. The cost of this fence installed is $15.75 to $32 a linear foot. Adding an aluminum coating to steel chain link fencing adds an extra layer of protection and strength. The aluminum finish adds a smooth, bright finish and extra corrosion resistance. Aluminum is also lightweight. The coating is applied before the weaving of the fence is done.

Vinyl Coated Chain Link Fence Cost

Expect the vinyl ¹ coated chain link fence cost to be near $8.75 to $20.50 per linear foot for the material only. The cost of this type installed averages $18.75 to $40.50 a linear foot. Plastic coated chain link fencing is the best choice when investing in a cyclone fence. The plastic coating protects the metal from harsh saltwater. The coating also helps protect your fencing from rusting and makes it last longer even if you don’t live in a hurricane-prone location. In addition, choosing a vinyl coated fence gives you the option to choose the color for your fencing. The most common colors are black, brown, green, and white. The downsides of this type of fencing are that it’s expensive, and the vinyl coating will eventually break down or tear off.

Aluminum Chain Link Fence Cost

Costs are higher for aluminum, coming in at $9 to $20 per linear foot for the material. The cost of this fencing installed is $19 to $40 a linear foot. Choosing aluminum chain link fencing gives you a very light material. Aluminum is corrosion resistant and has a more pleasing look than galvanized steel ². Very little maintenance is needed. Aluminum fares well when dealing with harsh sea coast conditions. An aluminum fence’s long life and low maintenance make up for the initial cost.

Stainless Steel Chain Link Fence

The cost for stainless steel chain link fencing should be near $9 to $21 per linear foot for the material. The cost of this fence installed averages $19 to $41 a linear foot. This type of fencing is more durable than galvanized chain link. Stainless steel offers alkali resistance and will not sag or roll up at the bottom. It offers high temperature and weather resistance and is strong and springy.

Colored Chain Link Fence Cost

Colored chain link fencing is an option that homeowners have instead of choosing a metallic color. The color selected usually depends on the purpose of the fencing and the aesthetic you desire. The following are popular color choices for these fences. Keep in mind that they come at a higher price point than standard types. However, since the color is achieved by covering the chain link with vinyl, it may last longer due to rust prevention.

Black Chain Link Fence Cost

The average cost for black chain link material is $8.75 to $12.50 a linear foot. The average cost for this material installed is $18.75 to $32.50 a linear foot. The most common vinyl chain link is black-colored models. The purpose of black chain link fences is to blend in and not stand out in the same manner as standard versions. If black is too harsh looking, some manufacturers offer a brown vinyl color selection for their fences.

Green Chain Link Fence Cost

Green chain link costs $9 to $12.50 a linear foot for the material. The average cost for this fence installed is $19 to $32.50 a linear foot. The cost is typically close to black chain link fencing. Green is usually a more popular choice for those looking to add a garden fence to their properties. They are also used often to surround off recreational areas.

White Chain Link Fence Cost

The average cost of white chain link is $10 to $18.50 a linear foot for the material. The average cost of this fence installed is $20 to $38.50. White chain link is less common but can be purchased for residential use. They have a stately appearance but require regular maintenance to keep clean. They work best for small yards or for areas that don’t contain pets. Pets may jump on the fence and scratch off the white coating or dirty it with muddy paws.

Chain Link Fence Post Cost by Material

The posts for chain link fences are traditionally made from metal. However, many people may want to blend wood with metal to create a more decorative and rustic-looking fence. In this case, you may use wood posts with the chain link material stretched between them. The posts come in two basic types - terminal and line. Terminal posts are set for gate posts or end-to-end connection. Line posts are set between terminal or gate posts to support the fence. The spacing of the posts ranges from 4 ft. to 10 ft. apart, with most homeowners opting for 6 ft. or 8 ft. spacing. The price of chain link fence posts is between $7.25 and $30 each, depending on the material, height, and any desired decorative qualities. With installation, this can make the total costs between $20 and $50 each.

Metal Posts

Metal fence posts range in price from $7.25 to $12 each, or $15 to $20 installed. Prices vary depending on thickness, height, and gauge of metal. Metal posts resist rot and pest damage and stand up to strong winds. Metal posts make sense because it matches the rest of your fencing and offers the support that your fencing needs. They can be found in matching colors if you opted for a vinyl coated fence. Colored posts range in price from $10.25 to $35.

Wood Posts

Costs for wood fence posts range from $10 to $30 per post, or $20 to $50 installed. Some homeowners would like to add a natural element to their chain link fences and opt for using wood fence posts. In most instances, an entire wood frame is built, and then chain link mesh is stretched across it. The downside to using wood is that it is prone to rot and cannot withstand high winds as well as metal. Wood posts can be pressure-treated, vinyl-coated, or natural.

Labor Cost to Install Chain Link Fence

Labor costs for installation average $10 to $20 per linear foot. When material costs are added, the chain link fence cost per foot installed is between $12 and $40. Costs vary based on the material, height, and the area where you live. Larger fencing costs more in materials and installation costs, while smaller fencing can be faster to install and therefore cost less. If the ground is rocky or difficult to work with, this can also increase your total labor costs. Costs are higher in areas with a higher cost of living. Digging holes and setting them in concrete is labor intensive, with the entire process taking up to a week for many fences. This includes the time needed for the concrete to cure for the posts. However, it is not always necessary for the posts to be set in concrete. If your soil is firm enough, this can cut down on the total time of installation, with the entire fence going up in about two to three days from the posts being set to the chain link being stretched between the posts, and the brackets ³ and post caps ⁴ added.

Installing a Chain Link Fence on Concrete

If you need to install a chain link fence on concrete, there are a few options. A hole can be cut in the concrete, and posts can be sunk into the hole. The other option is to weld mounting brackets ⁵ to the bottom of the post, sink anchors into the cement pad, and screw the brackets into the anchors. The price to cut concrete ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot. Either method will increase your total costs by $2 to $5 a linear foot, for a total cost range of $14 to $45 a linear foot for most fences.

Cost to Replace a Chain Link Fence

When it comes time to replace a chain link fence, a few things can happen. If the posts are still in good shape, but the fencing mesh is damaged, it’s possible to replace it. Replacing the fencing mesh costs between $7 and $12 per linear foot.

If the entire fence needs to be torn down and replaced, removal costs between $3 and $5 per linear foot. This involves ripping out the posts and removing all fencing. Keep in mind that old fencing can be sold or taken to scrap yards to recoup some of the cost. Ask your contractor if they are interested in purchasing the old fencing for a price reduction. The average cost to remove a chain link fence and replace it with the same type will be $15 to $45 per linear foot.

Chain Link Fence Gate Cost by Type

Several types of chain link fence gates are available. The type you need is usually determined by the size of the space where you want the gate installed. The three types are a swing gate, double swing gate, and a rolling gate. Within each type of gate, there are also variations in materials and design, affecting the price.

Swing Gate

The cost for a basic chain link swing gate typically runs from $20 to $40 per linear foot or $60 to $200 each. The cost for this gate installed averages $90 to $250. A swing gate is generally installed in openings that range in size from 3 ft. to 6 ft. A gate is installed on terminal posts and swings open to let a person through. The gate latches shut on the opposite terminal post. Galvanized steel residential swing gates range in height from 3 ft. to 6 ft.

Double Swing Gate

Costs for galvanized steel double swing gates average $120 to $400. The cost of this gate installed averages $180 to $500. A double swing gate consists of two gate sections that meet in the middle to close. The stationary parts of the gate are attached to terminal posts. Double swing gates are typically installed in openings that measure between 6 ft. and 12 ft.

Rolling Gate

Prices for chain link rolling gates range from $25 to $200 per linear foot, depending on size and materials. This equates to $125 to $4,000 each, or $200 to $4,400 installed. A rolling gate works because the two wheels installed on the back support the track. Rolling gates take up less space. Instead of swinging open, they slide across to run parallel with the rest of the fence. The gate must be made wider to make room for the wheels bolted on after assembly. Prices increase for a chain link rolling gate if installing an automated opening system. Chain link rolling gate prices vary greatly. Rolling gates are generally used in openings ranging from 5 ft. to 20 ft. wide, although they can be larger.

Chain Link Fence Gate Cost by Size

Adding a gate to your chain link fence will allow entry into your yard. This can be for a person on foot or a vehicle. Different circumstances warrant a different size and type of gate. Most openings for a person to pass through are between 3 ft. and 6 ft. wide. For these widths, a swing gate is used. The height depends on the height of your fence. Larger openings are needed for vehicles. Gates for larger openings are either double swing gates or rolling gates. Most people choose a gate that matches the style and material of the rest of their fence. Gate prices for this type of fencing fluctuate based on the size and materials used. The prices in this chart reflect a basic 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel gate. Prices increase significantly when using heavy-duty rolling systems, automated systems, or more expensive materials than galvanized steel.

Chain Link Fence Post Caps

Chain link fence post caps add a decorative element to your fence and play a vital role in protecting it. The post caps seal off the top of posts so that moisture does not get inside hollow posts and does not sit on the wood if using wooden posts. In chain link fences, the post caps on the line posts also allow the rails to go through. It’s important to find post caps that fit on whatever size post you are using. A variety of shapes and designs are available. Fence post caps for metal posts range in price from $0.59 to $30 each, depending on design and size. Caps for wood posts can be made of wood, metal, or resin. Many varieties are available, from plain to decorative, and even those that contain solar lights. Prices for caps for wooden fence posts range in price from $2 to $50 each.

Solar post caps add a nice finishing touch to your chain link fence. Instead of a basic cap, you may put some much needed illumination on select areas around your yard. Solar post caps are aftermarket products that won’t come standard with your fence installation kit. Once installed, the solar post caps can usually slide right over your existing caps. In other cases, you remove the original caps and replace them on top of the adapters with the solar types. The chain link solar post caps come in most standard sizes from 2-in to 3-in diameters. Chain link solar post caps range in price from $5 to $30 each.

Pros and Cons

As with all fencing types, there are pros and cons to choosing a chain link fence. They are fairly durable and can resist extreme weather, provided that you use the gauge and material that best suits your climate and needs. The material is fairly easy to maintain, and it resists both pests and rot. However, some materials that this fence can be made from corrode. If you live in an area near salt water or with extreme weather conditions, you may need to choose a material that can resist them.

Chain link is also less expensive than some types of fencing, which can make it a good choice for those who want to keep pets and kids in the yard but not spend a large sum of money.

Chain link is not as attractive as some fencing options, however. It does not add much to your property values, and unless you specifically purchase material to use with it, it does not help much with privacy. While it can come in higher sections, most residential fences are under 5 feet in height, making them a poor choice for security. Unless you choose a very heavy gauge wire, it may be easily cut, giving people easy access to your yard. If you choose to purchase a fence made of heavier gauge and with a much higher profile, your costs start to approach or exceed other materials, which may have a better appearance, while also being more secure.

Chain Link Privacy Fence Cost

If you are concerned about privacy, you may want to add extra features to your fence. They are not very good for maintaining privacy unless slats or privacy fabric is added.

Slats provide some privacy to your yard or property. Chain link slats are sold by the box. Chain link slats come in several colors to help your fence blend in with the rest of your property. A chain link fence with slats costs approximately $2 to $3 per linear foot for installation plus the cost of materials. A box of slats covering 10 linear feet of a 6 ft. tall fence costs about $55.

If you want some temporary privacy or want to add some color or interest to your chain link fence, you may opt for a fabric screen. Fabric screens are made from lightweight, printed material and are hung on the outside of the fence. They are meant to let air pass through, but not light, giving you privacy. They do not last as long as slats but may give you a more custom look. Privacy fabric for a chain link fence starts at around $0.95 to $1.10 a linear foot. Custom screens are available for as much as $5 to $6 a linear foot.

Requirements

A contractor will go over set requirements with you before installing your fence. Homeowners can choose some of their spacing, but there are minimal and maximum recommendations. Manufacturers will recommend posts be spaced between 4 ft. and 10 ft. apart. Manufacturers never recommend more than 10 feet of space between posts. Post holes will be dug first, so this spacing is always calculated beforehand. The post hole depth is typically 18 to 24 inches and 6 inches in diameter. Terminal post holes will be larger and are meant to secure the fence. Terminal post holes measure about 30 inches deep and 8 inches in diameter. Chain link fencing may have height restrictions, especially with local ordinances. In many towns, fences cannot be taller than six feet.

Maintenance

Chain link fence maintenance is relatively easy compared to other fencing types. Take a look every few months or after major storms to ensure there are no broken or missing links, rust, or damaged top rails. Also, check to see that all gates are swinging properly, and all posts are still straight and forming a right angle. If you notice any rust or damage, get it fixed as soon as possible. This simple maintenance will prolong the life of your fence.

It’s also a good idea to clean it once or twice a year. Simply spray off the fence with a high pressure spray from your garden hose or use a power washer if you have one. Professional pressure washing should be a standard part of homeowner maintenance that is performed on an annual basis. The average cost to pressure wash a fence is $180, which will remove any dirt and buildup that has accumulated over the months. Spring is typically a good time to schedule a pressure washing appointment and remove any winter grime from the fence.

If there is lots of grime and debris, use a bucket of soapy water or a borax solution to clean it. White vinegar can be used if mold is found on your fence. The homeowner can typically perform all maintenance tasks. However, if you cannot, a professional can be hired to clean and maintain a fence. Expect to pay $75 to $125 per hour for these services.

Black Chain Link vs Galvanized Cost

A black chain link fence is a galvanized steel fence that has been vinyl coated to give it a black color. This vinyl coating helps to protect it and make it last longer. While galvanized steel can outlast aluminum and other metals, a vinyl coating can help it last even longer. Galvanizing steel makes it stronger, but the material is still prone to scratching and rusting or corroding over time. A galvanized steel fence may last 10 to 15 years, while a vinyl-coated or black chain link fence may last more than 25 years. The vinyl coating can also make it feel softer, and depending on the vinyl type, it can be matte or glossy in appearance.

You’re more likely to find extended warranties with a vinyl-coated fence with options up to 15 years. Those without the coating may only have a warranty of up to 10 years.

For this reason, a standard galvanized steel fence will be less expensive than a black vinyl-coated one. Below are the average costs per linear foot for both materials installed.

Chain Link vs Vinyl Fence Cost

A vinyl fence costs close to double what a chain link fence costs. Vinyl fences provide privacy and come in a variety of textures, designs, and colors. They can mimic many different types of wood, including picket, post and rail, and panel fencing. They are predominately chosen as an alternative to wood fences because they are lower in maintenance than wood. However, vinyl will not last as long as a chain link fence and is not good at withstanding high winds and intense weather. Chain link is made of metal, so it tends to hold up better than vinyl, although it does not look as nice or improve the curb appeal of your home. Some people opt for a nicer looking vinyl fence in their front yard and install a chain link in the backyard where curb appeal doesn’t matter.

Vinyl fencing is more expensive than chain link on average, but it also tends to be larger and uses material in general. Below are the average costs for the two types, in an average 200 linear foot installation.

Welded Wire vs Chain Link

A welded wire ⁶ fence is also made out of wire. However, the wire forms a square or rectangular pattern instead of diamonds. This type can be installed on wooden frames or metal posts. Welded wire comes in steel, galvanized steel, and PVC coated in many gauges and square sizes. This type comes in different styles, such as hog wire, and may be used for gardens, livestock, and other purposes. Welded wire can also be used as a trellis fence, where climbing vines can grow.

Welded wire fencing tends to be less expensive than chain link. It is made to be strung on a frame or simply stretched between posts and is not as strong as chain link. For this reason, they are usually used for farm and garden purposes, while chain link may be used for securing children and pets. Both can be used for boundary purposes.

Below are the average costs for installing 200 linear feet of each type.

Barbed Wire vs Chain Link Fence

A barbed wire fence is most often used in ranching situations, as it’s effective for keeping livestock. Some people add barbed wire to the top of chain link fencing to make it more secure and keep out unwanted visitors. A complete barbed wire fence is constructed by installing either wooden or metal posts and then stringing the barbed wire tightly between them. The barbed nature of barbed wire can poke and scratch, making it a poor choice for urban environments. Because it is very inexpensive, it is frequently used to enclose large properties, including those of several acres.

Chain link fencing is most commonly used in smaller yards and residential spaces. For example, it may be used to encase a backyard of ¼ acre, while a barbed wire fence may be designed to enclose 3 acres.

While neither material is designed to be attractive, barbed wire can be off-putting because of its spiked appearance, while chain link does not appear threatening. Of the two, barbed wire is much less expensive. The costs below are for the installation of 200 linear feet of each material.

Wood Fence vs Chain Link Cost

A wood fence will be considerably more expensive than chain link fencing. However, wood fencing offers a more pleasing and natural design, privacy, and security. Wood fencing can last just as long or longer than chain link ones and comes with various design options. Wood fencing comes in a wide range of styles, from picket and dog ear to post and rail and split rail. Is also comes in many wood species, resulting in different finishes and properties. Because of this, wood fences have a wide range of costs, many of which are more costly than chain link.

Cost effectiveness is just one reason why homeowners choose a chain link fence over a wood one. Wooden fencing is not always practical for large areas that need fencing, especially square footage measuring over a half acre. Chain link fences are usually quicker to install and last longer than a wood one. Wood fencing may start to lean or rot in five years, while chain link fences have lifespans of twenty years or longer. Wooden fences require a lot of maintenance to make them last, including routine pressure washing. Chain link fences can just be cleaned with a hose from time to time in most cases.

While wood fences have some less expensive options, they tend to be more costly than chain link on average. Below are the average costs for installing 200 linear feet of each material.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Make Fence Taller

It’s possible to make chain link fencing taller. This might be necessary to contain a jumping dog or to add more security to your property. Posts can be covered with longer posts to increase the height of the fence. After this, new chain link mesh can be attached, and then the same top rails can be placed back on top. Expect to pay about $15 to $19 per linear foot to increase a 4 ft. to a 6 ft. chain link fence.

Paint a Chain Link Fence

If you would like your chain link fencing a certain color, would like to revamp old fencing, or would like extra protection for your fencing, painting is an option. To paint it, it just needs to be clean and free of debris. A roller makes it easy to apply the paint with a little touch-up work from a brush. First, use an oil-based primer ⁷ designed for metal and then use an oil-based rust-inhibiting aluminum flake paint. Materials plus labor is about $5 to $7 per linear foot.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

² Galvanized steel: Steel that has had a protective zinc coating applied to it to make it resistant to rusting

³ Brackets: A support that projects outward from one surface to hold another surface to it, such as attaching a shelf to a wall or piece of furniture. Brackets can also be used to strengthen joins between two materials

⁴ Post caps: An optional fence design detail, positioned on top of each fence post, used to give the fence a "finished" look and to prevent water from entering the posts

⁶ Welded wire: Material made of interlaced steel bars or wire, welded together, used to reinforce concrete

⁷ Primer: Preparatory coat applied to materials (drywall, wood, metal, etc.) before painting to ensure paint adhesion, extend paint durability, and help seal and protect the surface to be painted