How Much Does a Wire Fence Cost

Planning to install a wire fence in 2025 but overwhelmed by the costs? Don’t worry! Our guide on Wire Fence Costs in 2025 is here to help you easily navigate this task!
Jenny He
Jenny He
/
Updated on:
June 5, 2025

If you're considering installing a wire fence, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the expenses involved to make informed decisions and budget effectively.

On average, homeowners spend between $1,500 and $3,500 to install a wire fence, which includes materials and professional installation for an average-sized yard. The cost varies depending on factors such as wire type, height, materials, labor, and location.

Wire Fence Type Cost Per Foot Description
Low-End (Basic Wire) $1 - $3 Affordable, basic options suitable for smaller properties or minimal needs.
Mid-Range (Galvanized Wire) $4 - $8 Durable and resistant to rust, offering a balance between cost and longevity.
High-End (Heavy-Duty Welded Wire) $9 - $15 Premium wire, offering enhanced strength, durability, and longer lifespan.

How much does a wire fence cost?

On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $1,500 and $3,500 to install a wire fence around their property. This estimate typically includes the cost of materials and professional installation for an average-sized yard. The cost of a wire fence can vary based on several factors, including the type of wire, fence height, materials used, labor costs, and geographic location.

The national average cost per linear foot of wire fencing, including material cost and labor, is approximately $1 to $15. However, it's important to note that this total cost can fluctuate significantly depending on regional factors and specific project requirements.

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Wire Fence Cost per Linear Foot

The price per linear foot for wire fence installation typically falls between $1 and $15, depending on various factors such as the type of wire used and the desired height(usually 26 to 48 inches). While wire fences are commonly used to enclose larger properties, they can also be utilized for smaller spaces like gardens or to section off areas within a property, for example - to contain livestock.

Wire Fence Length (Feet) Cost Range
100 feet $150 to $2,000
150 feet $225 to $3,000
200 feet $300 to $4,000
250 feet $375 to $5,000
300 feet $450 to $6,000
400 feet $600 to $8,000

Wire Fence Cost Per Acre

When it comes to wire farm fencing or field fencing for larger areas of land, the cost is typically measured per acre rather than per linear foot. The price range for wire fence installation per acre, including labor costs, can vary significantly. On average, you can expect to pay between $836 and $6,688 per acre, depending on factors such as the chosen material and the terrain of the land. Here is a breakdown of the estimated wire fence cost per acre:

Wire Fence Acreage Cost Range
1 acre $850 to $7,000
2 acres $1,700 to $14,000
3 acres $2,550 to $21,000
4 acres $3,400 to $28,000
5 acres $4,250 to $35,000


Wire Fence Cost By Material

As with any fence type, wire fences also can be built with different materials and this choice of wire material significantly influences the overall cost of the fence. Wire materials typically can range in price from $0.08 to $3 per linear foot.

Wire Fence Type Material Cost Installation Cost Description
Aluminum Wire $0.075 - $0.125 $1 - $1.2 Durable, used for electric fences, lasts up to 50 years with maintenance.
Poly Wire $0.1 - $0.25 $1.1 - $1.25 Lightweight, low-maintenance, used for electric fences but needs replacement every few years.
Steel Wire $0.50 - $2 $1.5 - $1.25 Durable, secure, lasts up to 30 years with maintenance.
Vinyl Wire $1.25 - $3.5 $2.50 - $6 Weatherproof, low-maintenance, and requires minimal upkeep.
Wood and Wire $1 - $2 $2 - $6 Attractive and durable, but requires regular maintenance.

Cost of an Aluminum Wire Fence

  • Material Cost: $0.075 - $0.125 per linear foot
  • Installation Cost: $1 - $1.2 per linear foot
  • Description: Aluminum wire fences are durable, commonly used for electric fences, and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.
  • Cost of Poly Wire Fence

  • Material Cost: $0.1 - $0.25 per linear foot
  • Installation Cost: $1.1 - $1.25 per linear foot
  • Description: Lightweight, low-maintenance, and rust-resistant, poly wire fences are commonly used for electric fences but need replacing every few years.
  • Cost of Steel Wire Fence

  • Material Cost: $0.50 - $2 per linear foot
  • Installation Cost: $1.5 - $1.25 per linear foot
  • Description: Steel wire fences are durable, provide high security, and last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.
  • Cost of Vinyl Wire Fence

  • Material Cost: $1.25 - $3.5 per linear foot
  • Installation Cost: $2.50 - $6 per linear foot
  • Description: Vinyl wire fences are weatherproof, low-maintenance, and require minimal upkeep like hosing them down.
  • Cost of Wood and Wire Fence

  • Material Cost: $1 - $2 per linear foot
  • Installation Cost: $2 - $6 per linear foot
  • Description: A mix of wood and wire offers durability and aesthetic appeal but requires regular maintenance due to the wood’s susceptibility to the elements.
  • Types of Wire Fences and Average Installation Costs per Linear Foot

    Type of Wire Fence Average Cost per Foot
    Chain Link Fence $5 to $20
    Barbed Wire Fence $1.50 to $6
    Hog Wire Fence $3 to $10
    Welded Wire Fence $2 to $8
    Electric Wire Fence $2 to $10
    Field Fence $2 to $12
    PVC-Coated Wire Fence $4 to $15
    Woven Wire Fence $3 to $9
    Deer Fence $3 to $15
    High-Tensile Wire Fence $2 to $8
    Vinyl-Coated Wire Fence $6 to $20

    Wire Fence Cost by Gauge

    The cost of wire fences can range from $0.75 to $1 per linear foot for 18-gauge wire, while 6-gauge wire may cost around $2 to $3 per linear foot. These figures are approximate and can vary based on factors like location, market conditions, and additional features.

    Gauge refers to the thickness or diameter of the wire and is a critical determinant of the fence's strength and durability. In wire fencing, the gauge is denoted by a numerical value, with lower numbers indicating thicker wires. Thicker wires typically offer greater strength and resistance to impacts or pressure. Common wire gauges used in fencing range from 20 to 6, with 20 being thinner and 6 being thicker.

    For example, if you're installing a fence for agricultural purposes such as enclosing a pasture or containing livestock, you may need a heavier gauge wire that can withstand the weight of animals leaning against it or rubbing against it. On the other hand, if you're installing a fence for decorative purposes only, you may be able to get by with a lighter gauge wire that is less expensive.

    Thicker gauges generally come at a higher price due to the increased amount of material required and the enhanced strength they provide.  When choosing a wire fence, it's important to consider the intended use of the fence as well as any local regulations or zoning laws that may affect your choice. But below are some estimated cost ranges per linear foot you can use to budget for your new fence:

    Wire Gauge Average Cost per Linear Foot
    18 Gauge $1.00 - $2.00
    15.5 Gauge $1.10 - $2.20
    14 Gauge $1.20 - $2.40
    12.5 Gauge $1.25 - $2.50
    11 Gauge $1.35 - $2.70
    10 Gauge $1.50 - $3.00
    9 Gauge $2.00 - $4.00
    8 Gauge $2.25 - $4.50
    6 Gauge $3.00 - $6.00

    Wire Fence Cost by Wire Type

    Wire Fence Type Cost per Foot Description
    Razor Wire $1 - $3 Used for security, razor wire poses safety risks due to sharp edges.
    Smooth Wire $1 - $2.50 Cost-effective and durable, ideal for large livestock.
    Barbed Wire $1.25 - $4 Economical and secure, though not the most visually appealing.
    Woven Wire $1.50 - $6 Attractive and secure, commonly used for homes and farms.
    Chicken Wire $2 - $5 Lightweight and easy to install but prone to rust.
    Deer Wire $1.50 - $6 8-foot tall fence to protect gardens from deer.
    Bull Wire $2.50 - $7.50 Strong and durable, designed for large livestock.
    Hog Wire $3 - $10 Versatile, durable, and great for livestock and gardens.
    Welded Wire $3.50 - $10 Durable, strong, and commonly used in residential and industrial settings.

    Razor Wire Fence

  • Cost: $1 - $3 per linear foot
  • Description: Common for security, razor wire can be added to existing fences but poses significant safety risks due to sharp edges.
  • Smooth Wire Fence

  • Cost: $1 - $2.50 per linear foot
  • Description: Durable, cost-effective, and aesthetically appealing, smooth wire fences are ideal for large livestock but not small animals.
  • Barbed Wire Fence

  • Cost: $1.25 - $4 per linear foot
  • Description: Economical and widely used, barbed wire fences offer enhanced security but may not be as visually appealing as other types.
  • Woven Wire Fence

  • Cost: $1.50 - $6 per linear foot
  • Description: Popular for both homes and farms, woven wire fences are secure and attractive, providing protection against intruders.
  • Chicken Wire Fence

  • Cost: $2 - $5 per linear foot
  • Description: Lightweight and easy to install, chicken wire is great for containing small animals but prone to rusting.
  • Deer Wire Fence

  • Cost: $1.50 - $6 per linear foot
  • Description: Designed to protect gardens from deer, these fences are typically at least 8 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over.
  • Bull Wire Fence

  • Cost: $2.50 - $7.50 per linear foot
  • Description: Strong and durable, bull wire fences are ideal for containing large livestock such as cattle and horses.
  • Hog Wire Fence

  • Cost: $3 - $10 per linear foot
  • Description: Versatile and durable, hog wire fences are popular for containing livestock and can also be used for garden trellises.
  • Welded Wire Fence

  • Cost: $3.50 - $10 per linear foot
  • Description: Made from welded steel, these fences offer strength and durability, often used for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
  • Wire Fence Cost Factors

    When estimating the cost of a wire fence installation, it's important to consider additional factors that can affect the overall expenses. These factors include the length and height of the fence, the complexity of the installation, terrain conditions, and any additional features or accessories required. Here are some factors to consider:

    Cost Factor Cost Range Description
    Height and Length Varies Taller and longer fences require more materials and labor.
    Posts $15 - $60 Wood posts are $15 - $50, metal posts are $20 - $60 each.
    Gates $150 - $1,000 Single-panel gates cost $150 - $500, double-panel gates are $300 - $1,000.
    Labor / Installation $30 - $75/hr Labor costs typically range from $0.8 - $6 per linear foot.
    Permits Varies Permit costs depend on local zoning and regulation laws.
    Brush and Fence Removal Varies Additional costs depend on the extent of the removal required.
    Terrain $1,500 (leveling) Uneven terrain may require extra labor or equipment, costing around $1,500 for leveling.

    Coating

    Adding a coating to wire fences provides an extra layer of protection and enhances their durability. Coatings like galvanized, PVC, or polyester can protect against corrosion, and weather elements, and improve the overall appearance of the fence. Here’s a list of average installation costs of wire fences for different varieties of coatings:

    Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Installation

    To help you decide, here’s a quick cost comparison of DIY and professional installation based on common fencing materials:

    Fence Type DIY Cost (per ft) Professional Cost (per ft)
    Wire Fence $1.50 - $8 $10 - $20
    Chain Link Fence $5 - $15 $15 - $25
    Wood Fence $8 - $20 $15 - $30
    Vinyl Fence $15 - $30 $25 - $50
    Wrought Iron Fence $20 - $40 $30 - $70
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