Planning a fencing project, whether you’re a DIY homeowner or a professional contractor, starts with one essential question: How much is this going to cost? Fence pricing can vary widely depending on materials, installation method, property layout, and long-term maintenance considerations.

This guide breaks down how to estimate fence costs step-by-step, so you can budget accurately, avoid surprises, and choose a fence that delivers real long-term value and not just the lowest upfront price. As always, Western Fence & Landscape Supply near Boise, ID, is here to supply you with the best quality residential fencing materials around.

Step 1: Measure Your Fence Line Accurately

Before looking at materials or labor, you need an accurate measurement of your fence perimeter.

How to measure your yard for a fence:

Walk the fence line with a measuring wheel or tape
Mark corners, gates, and elevation changes
Account for extra footage for turns and slopes

Be sure to always add 5–10% extra footage for waste, cuts, and layout adjustments.

For example, if your property requires 200 linear feet of fencing, plan and price for 210–220 feet.

Step 2: Choose Your Fence Material

Your fence material choice is the biggest factor in overall fence cost. Below is a general cost comparison (fencing materials only) for wood fences, vinyl fencing supplies, chain link fencing, ornamental steel or aluminum, and ranch railing to help you estimate.

Common Fence Materials & Cost Ranges

Wood Fence

Cost: $$–$$$
Popular for privacy and aesthetics
Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing)
Higher long-term upkeep costs

Vinyl Fencing Supplies

Cost: $$$
Low maintenance and long lifespan
Higher upfront cost, but minimal ongoing expenses

Chain Link Fence

Cost: $–$$
Durable and cost-effective
Optional privacy slats add to cost

Ornamental Steel & Aluminum Fences

Cost: $$$–$$$$
High durability and curb appeal
Minimal maintenance over time

Ranch & Agricultural Fencing

Cost varies by wire type and post spacing
Designed for durability and function
Long-term value depends on proper materials and installation

Fencing material prices fluctuate based on availability and demand, so local pricing matters, especially in Idaho and the surrounding region.

Step 3: Calculate Fence Material Costs Per Linear Foot

Once you select a fence material, estimate the cost per linear foot.

What to include:

Fence panels or wire
Posts (wood or steel)
Concrete for setting posts
Gates & hardware
Fasteners, brackets, and caps

For example, if materials average $18 per linear foot and you need 210 feet: 210 × $18 = $3,780 in materials

Contractors should also factor in delivery, staging, and material waste when estimating.

Step 4: Estimate Labor Costs (DIY vs. Professional Installation)

Labor costs depend on whether you’re installing a DIY fence or hiring a professional.

DIY Fence Installation

No labor cost, but the time investment is significant
Requires tools and ability to use those tools (post hole digger, auger, level, concrete mixer, etc)
Higher risk of mistakes that lead to future repairs

DIY fencing is often appealing for simple layouts and short runs, but complex terrain can increase both time and hidden costs.

Professional Fence Installation

Labor often equals or exceeds material cost
Pricing varies by: soil conditions, slope and elevation changes, fence type and height, and the number of gates

Professional fence installation adds upfront cost but reduces long-term issues related to alignment, post depth, and structural integrity.

Step 5: Account for Property & Site Conditions

Two properties with the same fence material can have very different installation costs.

Factors that affect pricing:

Rocky or compacted soil
Slopes or uneven terrain
Existing fence removal
Local permit requirements
Winter or off-season installation conditions

Ignoring site conditions is one of the most common reasons fence projects go over budget.

Step 6: Factor in Long-Term Maintenance & Replacement Costs

The cheapest fence upfront is not always the most affordable over time.

Long-Term Fence Cost Considerations

Wood Fence

Requires staining or sealing every few years
Susceptible to rot and insect damage
May need partial replacement over time

Vinyl & Metal Fencing

Minimal maintenance
Higher initial cost but longer lifespan
Better long-term return on investment

Agricultural Fencing

Designed for durability
Proper material selection reduces repairs
Lower long-term labor costs when installed correctly

When estimating fence cost, think in terms of 10–20 years, not just the first invoice.

Step 7: Put it All Together for a Simple Fence Cost Estimate

Once you’ve measured your fence line, chosen materials, and considered labor and site conditions, it’s time to build a realistic total estimate.

Multiply the total fence length by the average material cost per linear foot.

(Fence Length x Material cost per foot) = Material total.

Why Working With a Fence Supply Expert Matters

Accurate estimates depend on the use of high-quality fencing materials and expert guidance. Working with a knowledgeable fence supply company helps you:

Choose the right materials for your project
Avoid overbuying or underestimating
Plan for long-term durability
Get pricing that reflects local conditions

Whether you’re a DIYer tackling your first fence or a contractor bidding on a large project, the right supplier can save time, money, and frustration. Luckily, Western Fence & Landscape Supply is here for all of your fencing and gate supply needs.

Estimating the cost of your fence isn’t just about finding the lowest number, but it’s about finding the best value for your property, purpose, and budget.

By considering fence materials, labor (your own or a professional's), site conditions, and long-term maintenance, you can make confident decisions that pay off for years to come. Stop by Western Fence & Landscape near Boise today and get your cost estimate started!

(208) 995-6468

How to Estimate How Much Your Fence Will Cost - Boise, ID