When you’re planning to install a wood fence in 2025, one of the first questions that comes up is this: what is the material cost for wood fence projects this year? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of wood you choose, the style of your fence, and the size of your yard. Whether you’re building a classic white picket fence or a tall privacy fence, understanding your options will help you make smart, budget-conscious decisions.
At Cool Cat Fence, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Seattle and Portland plan and build beautiful, long-lasting wood fences. This guide breaks down the wood fence cost per linear foot, explains what affects pricing, and gives you real insight into how to get the best value out of your fence installation project in 2025.
Average Material Cost for Wood Fence Projects in 2025
The average material cost for wood fence projects per linear foot wood in 2025 ranges from $1 to $15, depending on the wood fibers type. That number doesn’t include wood fence labor cost or professional installation fees yet, but it gives you a good foundation for planning.
Here’s a quick look at material costs by wood type:
- Pressure treated pine: $1 to $5 per linear foot
- Common cedar: $2 to $4 per linear foot
- Western red cedar: $5 to $8 per linear foot
- Redwood: $6 to $10 per linear foot
- Tropical hardwoods: $8 to $15 per linear foot
- Composite or faux-wood: $6 to $15 per linear foot
That range reflects the average price for raw wood fence materials, such as posts, pickets, and rails. These estimates may vary depending on supplier availability, regional demand, and lumber market conditions.
What Impacts the Cost Per Linear Foot?
Material costs vary depending on several factors, but the most important include:
- Wood species: Some woods are more durable, dense, or attractive, which drives up their cost per linear foot.
- Fence style and height: A fence taller than standard height requires more materials per square foot, which directly affects the total cost.
- Fence length: Naturally, the longer your fence, the higher your total cost will be.
- Additional features: Gates, post caps, lattice tops, and staining increase your material and wood fence labor cost.
Comparing Common Wood Types for Fencing
Let’s take a closer look at the wood types most commonly used in 2025 wood fence installation projects.
Pressure Treated Pine
One of the most affordable choices, pressure treated pine is chemically treated to resist insects and decay. While it holds up decently with proper maintenance, it’s more prone to warping or twisting in damp environments like the Pacific Northwest.
- Cost per linear foot: $1 to $5
- Best for: Budget-friendly fencing, especially when combined with stain or sealant
- Drawbacks: Requires regular sealing, not as long-lasting as cedar or redwood
Cedar (Including Western Red Cedar)
Cedar is the most popular choice for wooden fence installation in Seattle and Portland. Western red cedar in particular is naturally rot-resistant, has a gorgeous natural color, and holds up well in wet weather without pressure treatment.
- Cost per linear foot: $3 to $8
- Best for: Homeowners who want durability, low maintenance costs, and aesthetic appeal
- Drawbacks: Higher upfront material cost
Redwood
Redwood offers rich color and durability but comes with a higher material cost for wood fence builds. It’s not as common in Washington or Oregon and may need to be special ordered.
- Cost per linear foot: $6 to $10
- Best for: Premium privacy fences or high-end landscaping projects
- Drawbacks: High cost, less availability in the Northwest
Tropical Hardwoods
Hardwoods like ipe, mahogany, or tigerwood are incredibly strong and long-lasting. These are typically used for luxury fence projects or for homeowners looking to make a bold statement.
- Cost per linear foot: $8 to $15+
- Best for: High-end homes, modern fence styles, or coastal environments
- Drawbacks: Cost, availability, and complexity of professional installation
Understanding Wood Fence Installation Cost
Once you know the material cost, the next step is to understand wood fence labor cost and installation cost, which includes labor, equipment, and cleanup. The average cost to install a wood fence ranges from $15 to $50 per linear foot installed, depending on your materials and project complexity.
Here’s what makes up that total:
- Labor cost: $5 to $20 per linear foot
- Material cost: $5 to $15 per linear foot
- Old fence removal: $3 to $5 per linear foot
- Permits and inspections: Varies by city
- Add-ons like gates or decorative top caps: $100 to $800+ depending on design
In the Seattle and Portland areas, fence contractors charge higher labor rates than some other regions, especially for complicated terrain or tight timelines. But investing in a professional fence installer ensures your new wood fence is level, secure, and compliant with local code.
How Fence Styles Affect Costs
Different fence styles use different amounts of material, which impacts the overall cost of your wood fence project.
Privacy Fence
This solid style is designed to fully block sight lines and typically stands 6 to 8 feet tall. It uses more materials per linear foot wood, especially for vertical boards, making it one of the more expensive styles.
- Wood fence cost: $25 to $55 per linear foot installed
- Material usage: High
- Pros: Maximum privacy, noise reduction
- Cons: More materials and higher labor cost
Picket Fence
Classic and charming, a white picket fence works well for front yards. It uses fewer materials than a privacy fence, especially if built with spaced pickets.
- Wood fence cost: $15 to $30 per linear foot installed
- Material usage: Moderate
- Pros: Curb appeal, affordability
- Cons: Less security and privacy
Shadowbox Fence
Shadowbox fences alternate boards on both sides of the rail, offering a more decorative look while still providing some privacy.
- Wood fence cost: $30 to $45 per linear foot
- Material usage: High
- Pros: Aesthetic appeal on both sides
- Cons: More materials, more labor
Horizontal Rail Fence
This modern style flips the traditional look, using horizontal rails rather than vertical boards. It often uses more materials due to spacing and cutting needs.
- Wood fence cost: 10 to 20 percent higher than standard vertical fences
- Pros: Contemporary design, visual interest
- Cons: Higher labor and material cost
Add-On and Hidden Costs to Watch For
To get a clear picture of your total cost, consider these extras:
- Old fence removal: Removing an existing fence can add $300 to $1,500 depending on fence length
- Fence posts and concrete: $30 to $80 each including labor
- Sealing and staining: $200 to $800 for full treatment
- Land leveling or clearing: If your yard needs cubic yard land leveling, costs can jump significantly
- Permits and inspections: Always check local ordinances, especially in Seattle or Portland neighborhoods with historic rules
Fence Installation in Seattle and Portland
In Seattle, wood fence installation costs trend toward the higher end due to dense soil, slope, and permitting requirements. Western red cedar is readily available here and is our top choice for both front and backyard fences.
In Portland, horizontal cedar fences are especially popular. Many Portland homeowners combine pressure treated wood posts with cedar pickets to reduce the overall cost while preserving appearance and longevity.
- Seattle: $30 to $55 per linear foot installed
- Portland: $25 to $50 per linear foot installed
We’ve built fences in every condition imaginable and bring the experience needed for complex layouts, fence removal, and local compliance.
Choosing the Right Fence for Your Budget
If you’re comparing materials and styles, here’s a quick reference to help you plan your new wood fence:
- Budget builds: Pressure treated pine with simple pickets
- Mid-range: Common cedar or mixed materials
- High-end: Western red cedar or tropical hardwoods
- Design-focused: Horizontal rails or shadowbox styles
- Function first: Privacy fence with strong posts and sealed pickets
Remember, a well maintained fence made from high quality materials will not only last longer, but also increase your home’s curb appeal and value.
Tips to Save Money on Wood Fence Projects
Looking to cut back on cost without cutting corners? Try these ideas:
- Keep it simple: Go with basic fence styles to reduce labor
- Skip fancy features: Post caps and lattice add up fast
- Stain it yourself: Save on labor by handling finishing
- Combine materials: Use pressure treated wood for posts, cedar for pickets
- Work with local pros: We source materials efficiently and pass the savings to you
Frequently Asked Wood Fence Cost and Installation Questions
What is the cheapest material cost for wood fence?
Pressure treated pine is the most affordable option, with prices as low as $1 per linear foot for pickets.
How much is fence removal and installation?
Fence removal adds around $3 to $5 per linear foot, and installation costs run from $15 to $50 per linear foot installed.
Can a wood fence increase home value?
Yes. A beautiful, professionally installed wooden fence boosts aesthetic appeal and offers privacy, both of which can increase your property value.
What is the average fence length for a yard?
Most residential lots require between 150 and 300 linear feet of fencing. Your exact fence length depends on lot size and layout.
Do wood fences require a lot of maintenance?
All wood fence require some upkeep. With proper maintenance, including sealing and repairs, you can extend the life of your fence to 20+ years.
Start Your Fence Project with Cool Cat Fence
Whether you’re replacing an old fence, removing chain link fences, or starting fresh with a new fence, the best way to get accurate pricing is to speak with a pro. At Cool Cat Fence, we offer clear, itemized quotes and expert help choosing the right materials, style, and layout for your yard.
We’re known for our friendly service, quality craftsmanship, and deep experience installing fences in the Pacific Northwest. Ready to get started?
Contact us today to schedule a free estimate for your wood fence installation.
