Homeowners commonly pay for cedar or redwood fencing based on wood grade, height, length, installation method, and regional labor rates. The cost difference between cedar and redwood often hinges on grade, treatment, and whether the project uses preassembled panels or custom framing. This article presents real-world price ranges and breakdowns to help buyers budget accurately for a cedar vs redwood fence.

Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard 6-foot boards, typical residential lot, and no major site obstacles.

Cedar Fence Cost by Grade and Size

Typical total price for cedar fences ranges from $10 to $18 per linear foot, depending on grade and finish, with a common installation total of $2,000 to $6,000 for a 100-foot run. Cedar boards vary by grade—from clear heartwood to economy select—which shifts both material cost and exterior appearance. In practice, expect cedar to be the more economical option for basic privacy panels when finished with a water-repellent stain. For smaller lots or shorter runs, the low end may dip below $2,000; for larger lots or premium boards, totals can exceed $6,000.

Assumptions: 6-foot privacy height, standard 2-3 inch-wide pickets, no custom features, single-story fence line, average soil quality.

Major cost components in Cedar vs Redwood Fence Quotes

Most quotes split into four to six primary components, with materials and labor dominating the budget. The fastest way to see real savings is to compare the same scope across contractors using identical materials and fence height. Cedar quotes typically cost less upfront, while redwood adds premium wood and longer service life in sunny climates. A precise quote often shows material costs per linear foot, labor hours, and any extra charges for site prep or gate hardware.

Variables that shift Cedar and Redwood pricing

Key drivers often shift final quotes by 20% to 40% based on scope and region. The most influential variables include fence height (6 ft vs 8 ft), total linear footage, board grade (clear vs knotty), and soil conditions affecting post installation. For example, taller fences or longer runs increase both material and labor. Regions with higher minimum wage or stricter permitting add-ons can push overall costs higher than national averages.

Regional price differences for cedar versus redwood fencing

Regional markets show noticeable spreads; the West and Northeast generally run higher than the South. In coastal California or Oregon, redwood can hold a price premium of 15% to 30% over cedar because of wood scarcity and demand. The Midwest may see cedar and redwood within a narrower band, with cedar sometimes slightly cheaper due to greater availability. Expect roughly $1,000 to $2,000 more for a full 100-foot install in coastal markets versus inland regions, depending on local labor rates and permit costs.

Fence height, panel layout, and system type impact on total price

System type matters: post-and-rail, board-on-board, or preassembled panels each carry distinct pricing. A standard 6-foot privacy board-on-board option usually costs more than a basic picket or inline rail design due to additional boards and fasteners. If a homeowner opts for preassembled panels, labor may drop, but per-panel costs rise. Conversely, custom post spacing or reinforced posts can add 10%–25% to the bill, especially on uneven terrain.

Treatment, sealant, and long-term maintenance cost considerations

Maintenance planning adds ongoing costs to the upfront price. Cedar typically accepts sealants well and may require re-sealing every 2–5 years, depending on climate. Redwood has natural rot resistance but still benefits from protective finishes in wet climates. Annual maintenance budgets for staining and minor repairs can range from $100 to $400 per year, varying with exposure and DIY vs professional care choices.

Replacement vs installation: when cedar or redwood saves over time

Long-term ownership costs can tilt the decision toward one wood type depending on climate and expected lifespan. Redwood often resists rot longer in damp regions, potentially reducing replacement cycles. Cedar may require more frequent refinishing but can be cheaper initially. If a project anticipates 15–20 years of use without major repairs, redwood may offer a better total cost of ownership in higher-humidity zones; in drier zones cedar could be more economical over the same horizon.

Real-world quote ranges by project scope

Three example quotes show how scope changes affect price. A 60-foot cedar privacy fence with standard posts and staining might fall around $1,800–$4,200. A redwood upgrade with premium boards and two gates could run $3,500–$7,000 for the same length. Finally, a 120-foot run with custom panel design and quick-connect hardware could be $5,000–$11,500, depending on local labor and permit requirements.

Smart scope management and material choices directly cut the price. Start with a single-ride scope: confirm exact length and height, avoid optional add-ons like decorative caps unless necessary, and ask for clear per-foot pricing. Choose standard 6-foot panels with traditional posts before considering specialty rails. Scheduling repairs in shoulder seasons or bundling with another project can lower crew mobilization fees. Finally, compare at least three quotes that use identical specifications to avoid hidden upgrades drifting costs.