Homeowners typically pay a per-foot price for redwood fences that reflects wood grade, height, and finish, along with installation and site prep. The cost per foot combines material and labor factors, with additional charges for permits and delivery. This article outlines the cost ranges, drivers, and practical budgeting steps for redwood fencing projects in the United States.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redwood Boards (rough-cut or standard grade) | $8.50/ft | $12.50/ft | $20.00/ft | boards per linear foot; thickness affects price |
| Labor (installation, posts, setting) | $7.00/ft | $12.00/ft | $18.50/ft | hourly crew rates vary region |
| Hardware & Fasteners | $1.50/ft | $2.50/ft | $4.00/ft | galvanized or stainless options |
| Posts & Concrete | $4.50/ft | $6.50/ft | $9.50/ft | standard 6×6 posts, set depth |
| Delivery & Waste Disposal | $0.50/ft | $1.50/ft | $3.00/ft | distance & haul limits affect cost |
| Permits & Fees | $0 | $1.00/ft | $3.00/ft | local codes may require permits |
Assumptions: region, wood grade, height (6–8 ft typical), linear footage, site access, climate considerations.
Overview Of Costs
Redwood fence price and cost per foot vary by wood grade, fence height, and installation complexity. The total project range commonly falls between $15 and $40 per linear foot, depending on whether premium heartwood redwood is used and whether extensive grading or long gate work is required. For a standard 6-foot privacy fence, expect the per-foot ranges below to capture typical scenarios in the U.S. including both materials and labor.
Cost Breakdown
The following table summarizes the major cost components and typical ranges for a standard backyard fence project. The per-foot ranges assume a common 6-foot privacy design and average site conditions.
| Component | Low | Avg | High | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $8.50 | $12.50 | $20.00 | Redwood boards, rails, posts | 600 ft fence, standard grade |
| Labor | $7.00 | $12.00 | $18.50 | Installation, posts, leveling | 2-person crew, 8–10 hours/100 ft |
| Equipment | $1.00 | $2.00 | $3.50 | Tools, saws, nail guns | Rental or owned gear |
| Permits | $0 | $1.00 | $3.00 | Local permit costs | Single-section lot |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.00 | Transport and debris removal | Within 20 miles |
| Taxes | $0.40 | $0.80 | $1.60 | Sales tax on materials | State-specific rate |
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What Drives Price
Key cost drivers for redwood fencing include wood grade (heartwood versus sapwood), board thickness (1×6 vs 1×8), height (privacy vs picket), post spacing, and finish options such as stain or sealant. Higher-grade redwood and thicker boards significantly raise material costs, while labor expenses climb with site accessibility and the need for concrete footings or grading adjustments. Maximum costs appear when gates, decorative rails, or custom designs are included.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across the United States due to labor markets and material transport. In the table below, three regions illustrate typical deltas from the national average. In urban markets, expect up to a 15–25% premium on both materials and labor; suburban areas often align with averages; rural regions may show 5–15% lower costs when crews are readily available. These ranges reflect typical quick-start estimates for standard projects.
Labor & Installation Time
Installed fencing generally requires 8–12 hours per 100 ft for a two-person crew in straightforward terrain. Complex sites with tying into existing structures, uneven ground, or decorative features can push work time higher. Labor rates commonly range from $12–$18 per foot depending on region and crew experience. A mini project with a few gates or curved sections can alter the overall hours and price.
Regional Price Differences
Regional differences shape the final price for redwood fencing. In the West Coast, higher timber costs and skilled labor rates often push price per foot into the upper end of the spectrum, while the Midwest may hover closer to national averages. The Southeast can vary with local sawmill pricing and availability. Plan for a possible ±20% swing from the national average based on location and season.
Buyers’ Guide: Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes for different budgets and site conditions. Each card shows specs, labor hours, per-foot components, and total estimates.
Basic: Standard grade, 6 ft privacy, flat yard
Specs: 6 ft height, standard heartwood; 600 ft total; no gates; basic stain. Labor: 8–10 hours per 100 ft. Materials: $9.00/ft; Labor: $12.50/ft; Other: $2.00/ft; Total range: $9,000–$13,500 (materials + labor).
Mid-Range: Premium heartwood, 6 ft, few gates
Specs: 6 ft, two gates, curved sections; terrain mostly level. Labor: 10–14 hours per 100 ft. Materials: $13.50/ft; Labor: $13.00/ft; Other: $2.50/ft; Total range: $14,000–$20,000.
Premium: Custom design, 8 ft height, decorative rails
Specs: 8 ft privacy, heartwood, three updates; mix of straight and curved runs, premium finishes. Labor: 16–22 hours per 100 ft. Materials: $18.00/ft; Labor: $16.50/ft; Other: $3.50/ft; Total range: $28,000–$46,000.
Ways To Save
Several strategies can reduce final costs without sacrificing durability. Buy lumber in bulk, opt for standard board dimensions, and choose non-pressure-treated options where code allows. If possible, combine fence projects with other landscaping needs to reduce mobilization charges. Request multiple quotes and verify permit requirements early to prevent unexpected delays or fees.
