Chain Link vs Wood Fence Cost

See both fences side by side for the same length, using installed price ranges.

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Chain link is usually the cheaper fence; wood gives privacy. Slats can add privacy to chain link for $5 to $15 per linear foot.

Each fence = length × installed price per linear foot. The midpoint is halfway between the low and high totals.

Example: for 150 ft, chain link runs $1,350 to $4,500 and wood runs $3,000 to $7,500.

Worked out with the same settings as the calculator above, changing only the length.

Fence	Per linear foot
Wood	$20 – $50
Cedar	$27 – $43
Vinyl (PVC)	$30 – $60
Chain link	$9 – $30
Black vinyl-coated chain link	$13 – $40
Aluminum	$25 – $75
Steel	$20 – $85
Wrought iron	$50 – $85
Composite	$20 – $85
Privacy fence (wood or vinyl)	$25 – $60
Wood picket	$10 – $75
Split rail	$12 – $30
Concrete block	$10 – $30
Barbed wire	$1.25 – $3.5
Woven wire (field fence)	$1.5 – $6
Wire fence (any type)	$1 – $10
Cattle fence	$2.5 – $7.5
Electric fence	$2 – $4
Deer fence	$6 – $15
Pool fence	$15 – $25
Horse fence (split rail)	$12 – $30

Which fence lasts longest?

Aluminum, vinyl and galvanized chain link need little care and last decades. Wood lasts about 15 to 20 years with regular staining, longer for cedar.

Which fence gives the most privacy for the money?

A solid wood privacy fence is usually the cheapest full-privacy option. Chain link with slats is cheaper but looks more utilitarian.

HomeAdvisor, Fence installation cost: https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/fencing/install-a-fence/
Angi, How much does fence installation cost?: https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-fence-installation-cost.htm