Chain Link Fence Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$700 – $1,200
$7.00 – $12.00 per linear foot (installed)
Material
$300 – $500
Labor
$400 – $700
Fence Length
100 LF
Fence Type
Galvanized 4 ft
Tip: Get at least 3 quotes from licensed fence contractors. Check with your HOA and local building department for fence height limits and setback requirements before installation.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Chain Link Fence Cost Breakdown
| Fence Type | Material / LF | Labor / LF | Total / LF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized 4 ft | $3 – $5 | $4 – $7 | $7 – $12 |
| Galvanized 6 ft | $4 – $7 | $5 – $9 | $9 – $16 |
| Vinyl-Coated 4 ft | $4 – $7 | $4.50 – $7.50 | $8.50 – $14.50 |
| Vinyl-Coated 6 ft | $5 – $9 | $5.50 – $9.50 | $10.50 – $18.50 |
* Costs shown for new install on flat terrain (1.0× labor). Sloped adds 15%, remove & replace adds 20% to labor.
Average Project Costs (New Installation)
| Project | Length | Type | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Yard | 100 LF | Galvanized 4 ft | $700 – $1,200 |
| Backyard | 150 LF | Galvanized 6 ft | $1,350 – $2,400 |
| Pool Enclosure | 120 LF | Vinyl-Coated 4 ft | $1,020 – $1,740 |
| Full Perimeter | 300 LF | Galvanized 4 ft | $2,100 – $3,600 |
How We Calculate
Our chain link fence calculator estimates project costs based on fence length, fence type (height and coating), and site condition. Material and labor costs are calculated per linear foot, with labor adjusted by a site condition multiplier.
How the math works: Material cost = length × material price per LF. Labor cost = length × labor rate per LF × condition multiplier. Total = material + labor. The condition multiplier adjusts labor: new install on flat terrain is 1.0×, sloped terrain adds 15% (1.15×), and remove & replace adds 20% (1.2×).
Chain Link Type Comparison
Galvanized 4 ft ($3–$5/LF material, $4–$7/LF labor) is the most affordable option. Standard for property boundaries, garden fences, and front yards. Hot-dip galvanized coating prevents rust for 15–20 years.
Galvanized 6 ft ($4–$7/LF material, $5–$9/LF labor) provides security fencing for backyards. Most popular for residential use. Requires heavier terminal posts and more concrete per post.
Vinyl-Coated 4 ft ($4–$7/LF material, $4.50–$7.50/LF labor) adds a colored PVC coating over galvanized wire. Available in black, green, and brown. Better corrosion resistance and appearance. Lasts 20–30 years.
Vinyl-Coated 6 ft ($5–$9/LF material, $5.50–$9.50/LF labor) is the premium chain link option. Combines the height of 6 ft security fencing with the durability and appearance of vinyl coating. Most expensive but longest-lasting.
Additional Cost Factors
Our estimates cover chain link fabric, posts, rails, and installation labor. Not included: gates ($150–$500 each for walk gates, $300–$1,500 for drive gates), privacy slats ($2–$5/LF), post caps ($3–$10 each), concrete for post holes ($5–$10/post), and permit fees ($25–$100). Corner posts and end posts cost more than line posts.
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, fence manufacturers, and verified contractor estimates across multiple US regions. We review and update this data regularly.
Last updated: 2026-02-02
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a chain link fence cost? +
A chain link fence costs $7–$18.50 per linear foot installed. Galvanized 4 ft is $7–$12/LF, galvanized 6 ft $9–$16/LF, vinyl-coated 4 ft $8.50–$14.50/LF, and vinyl-coated 6 ft $10.50–$18.50/LF. A 150 LF backyard fence costs $1,350–$2,400 for galvanized 6 ft.
Is chain link the cheapest fence? +
Yes, chain link is the most affordable fence type at $7–$18.50/LF installed vs. $15–$55/LF for wood, $20–$40/LF for vinyl, and $25–$55/LF for aluminum. A 150 LF chain link fence saves $1,200–$5,700+ compared to wood privacy fencing.
How long does chain link fence last? +
Galvanized chain link lasts 15–20 years. Vinyl-coated chain link lasts 20–30 years thanks to the protective coating that prevents rust. Commercial-grade (11-gauge) lasts longer than residential (11.5-gauge). Proper post setting extends lifespan.
What height chain link fence do I need? +
4 ft is standard for front yards, property boundaries, and garden enclosures. 6 ft provides backyard privacy and security. Check local codes — many municipalities limit front yard fences to 4 ft and allow 6 ft in back/side yards. Pool fences must be at least 4 ft per code.
Can I install chain link fence myself? +
Yes, DIY chain link installation saves 40–55% on labor. You'll need a post hole digger, come-along tool, and fence stretcher ($40–$100 rental). A 150 LF fence takes a weekend for most DIYers. Terminal and line posts must be set in concrete for stability.
Does chain link fence add privacy? +
Standard chain link offers no privacy. Add privacy slats ($2–$5/LF) or windscreen fabric ($1–$3/LF) for 70–90% opacity. Vinyl-coated chain link in darker colors is less visible. For full privacy, consider wood or vinyl fencing instead.
Do I need a permit for a chain link fence? +
Most municipalities require a fence permit ($25–$100). Check setback requirements, height limits, and HOA restrictions before installation. Some HOAs prohibit chain link fencing entirely. Call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities.
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