How much does it cost to install a wire fence?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Wire fences can be used for many reasons. Some are designed to keep animals in a designated area. Others are designed to keep predators out. In some cases, a wire fence provides added security to your home. For homeowners who prefer privacy, wire fences are a great way to keep others out of their yard without completely blocking out the natural surroundings.

Many factors can determine the cost to install a wire fence, including what it is made of, its thickness and strength, and what function it is designed to perform. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,250 and $8,000 to have a wire fence installed, with most homeowners paying around $2,400 to install 1,000 linear feet of 12 gauge aluminum deer fence. Costs can run as low as $836 to enclose a 1-acre property in razor wire to as high as $12,500 to enclose 3 acres of property with bull wire fencing.

Wire Fence Installation Cost

Wire Fence Cost per Foot

When having your wire fence installed, the cost depends on the number of feet required. You can expect to pay between $1 and $8 per linear foot to have your wire fence installed. The cost varies depending on the type of wire being used and the height, with most fences ranging between 26 inches and 48 inches tall. This type of fences have many uses, with some used to enclose large properties. However, the average small size installation for a wire fence is around 200 linear feet or ¼ acre. It is possible to use wire fencing for smaller spaces, such as around a garden or to section off areas of a property from wildlife or keep livestock from entering other areas. Below you will see the average cost based on different lengths of linear feet of fence installed.

Wire Fencing Cost per Acre

Your wire farm fencing cost or field fencing cost will be priced by acre instead of feet when dealing with a significant amount of land. You can expect to pay anywhere between $836 and $6,688 per acre to have a wire fence installed, including labor costs. The final cost for the installation will depend on the type of material you use and the type of terrain. Below you will see an average cost you may expect to pay for each acre for cattle fencing cost or other types of wire fence installation.

Wire Fence Cost by Material

The material of the wire plays a role in the overall cost of the fence. Materials run between $0.08 and $3 per linear foot. The type of material chosen for the wire is typically determined by the required strength of the fence and the desired aesthetic appearance. Below you will see some of the common materials and the average cost you can expect to pay per linear foot for materials only and the cost installed. Keep in mind that these costs are for the wire. The more materials needed to create the fence, the higher your total costs will be. Fences like woven wire and deer fencing require more material per linear foot, resulting in higher total overall costs.

Aluminum Wire Fence

Aluminum wire is most often used in electric fences and costs between $0.08 and $0.11 per linear foot. Installed, this material is $1 to $1.15 a linear foot. It is known to be four times more conductive than steel wire and has greater flexibility. When used on non-electrical fences, it is ideal for grazing pastures. It is popular for its durability and brightness, which provides both humans and animals with greater visibility. When well-maintained, an aluminum fence can last up to 50 years. The only drawback to this type of wire fencing is that it often has to be painted or refinished after several years.

Poly Wire Fence

Poly wire fencing costs between $0.10 and $0.12 per linear foot for materials only. This material costs $1.15 to $1.20 a linear foot installed. While the poly wire is sometimes used for deer fences, it is most often used to construct electric fences. Poly wire is rust-resistant and is a popular option for electric fences due to its excellent conductivity. The wire is also UV resistant which prevents it from breaking down in intense heat. Poly wire fences do not have the longevity of aluminum fences and typically need replacing in three to five years.

Steel Wire Fence

A steel high tensile fence cost per foot is $0.70 to $2 for materials only. The cost of this material installed is $1.60 to $4.50 a linear foot. Stainless steel wire fences are one of the most popular options due to their aesthetic appearance. Steel wire fences are often chosen when a homeowner wants a stronger fence that can contain and keep out large animals. Steel wire is not flexible, making installation more difficult. However, it is designed to last up to 30 years, which makes it appealing. The total high tensile wire fence cost depends on the specific type of steel wire and the overall length of the fence.

Wood and Wire Fence

You can expect to pay $1 to $2 per linear foot for materials when choosing to build a wood and wire fence. The cost of this fencing is $2 to $5.50 a linear foot installed. Wood and wire fences include either wood posts or wooden frames that the wire mesh is stretched over. The result is an aesthetically pleasing fence that is durable enough to hold in small animals. This type of fence is popular for hog pens. The main drawback is it requires more maintenance. The wood will not stand up to outside elements. But if well-maintained and with necessary post replacements, you can expect this type of fence to last 10 to 12 years.

Vinyl Wire Fence

Vinyl wire fences are a more expensive option, running between $1.50 to $3 per linear foot just for the materials. The cost of this material installed averages $2.50 to $5.50 a linear foot. Most wire vinyl fences include PVC coating, providing added protection against rust and corrosion. Vinyl wire fences are typically used for their aesthetic appearance and are perfect around pools and other water because they are resistant to rust. This type of material allows for longer life, between 20 and 30 years, and less maintenance.

Wire Fence Cost per Gauge

When opting for wire fencing, the fence's gauge affects the cost, with thicker gauges running more. Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire. The thicker the wire, the lower the gauge number. This means that an 18 gauge wire fence has thinner wire than a 12 gauge wire fence. You can expect to pay $0.03 to $0.12 per linear foot of different ranging gauges. The gauge of the fence is its thickness and affects its strength, making it harder to break or bend. The cost of livestock fencing can often be more than others because it requires a stronger gauge to contain animals. Below you will see some of the most common gauges of wire fencing and the average cost per linear foot for materials, as well as the costs for the material installed. It is important to note that as the material gets thicker, it does become more difficult to work with and installation costs will increase as well as material costs. It is also important to note that like wire types, the more wire used in the fence, the higher your total costs. The following costs are for one linear foot of each gauge of wire. You may need multiple feet to make up a single section of fence, such as in deer fencing or woven wire fencing, which can increase your total costs.

Wire Fence Cost by Type of Wire

A major factor that plays into farm fence installation cost per foot or other wire fencing cost is the type of wire used. You can expect to pay between $1 and $8 per linear foot, depending on the material selected. The type of material you choose depends on the fence's function and what you are ultimately trying to keep out or keep in. Below you will see the average cost per linear foot of the most common types of materials, including installation costs.

Razor Wire Fence

You can expect to pay between $1 and $3 per linear foot to install a razor wire fence. Fencing created using razor wire typically involves placing strands of razor wire across wooden or metal posts. Razor wire can also be affixed to the top of fences to provide added security. It works similar to a barbed-wire fence. While it provides great security, it can be dangerous to humans. Becoming caught in the wire can result in severe cuts.

Smooth 

Another cost-effective wire fencing option is a smooth wire fence that costs $1.20 to $2.50 per linear foot, depending on the tensile strength. It provides ample security to keep bigger livestock in but is not effective at keeping smaller animals out. The advantages of smooth wire fencing are that it looks more attractive than other types and can be safe for humans to be around as long as it is not electrified. The disadvantage of this type of fence is that it is not as effective at enclosing and keeping out smaller animals.

Barbed Wire Fence

Barbed wire fencing costs between $1.25 and $3.50 per linear foot installed and is often used to keep livestock in and keep wild animals out. It is an economical option when a significant amount of fence is needed, and you need additional security. Homeowners like barbed wire as it keeps animals secure and is cost-effective and lightweight. Its drawback is that it can be dangerous to humans due to the potential for cuts from the barbs. Also, it is not as attractive as other wire fence options.

Woven Wire Fence

Woven wire fence cost per foot is between $1.50 and $5.90. Your woven wire fencing cost depends on the size of the mesh. A fence with a 2-inch by 4-inch mesh is good for hoofed animals since it would be difficult for them to get their hooves through the holes. For larger animals, a 6-inch by 6-inch mesh is more suitable. Homeowners often choose a woven wire fence because they tend to be more attractive and safer for young children. The main drawback to this type of fence is the cost.

Deer 

An average height wire deer fence costs between $1.75 and $5.50 per linear foot installed. Deer fences are common around crops and gardens to keep away the deer that enjoy a feast on plant life. Deer fencing will be constructed at least eight feet high since it needs to be at a height that deer cannot successfully jump over. They are an economical way to keep deer and other wildlife out of the area for a minimal cost. They are not always strong enough for heavier animals.

Chicken Wire Fence

A chicken wire fence price is between $2 and $4.50 per linear foot to install. The total chicken wire fence cost will be determined by the wire required to create the enclosure. Most of these fences are four feet high. This height is ample to contain chicken and other small animals. Chicken wire is a lightweight but durable mesh that is both easy to form and install. Unfortunately, chicken wire tends to rust more easily, which can make it weaker.

Bull Wire Fence

Bull wire fencing is similar to barbed wire or smooth wire but at a higher tensile strength. Because it is strong, it costs between $3 and $7 per linear foot. Bull fencing needs to be stronger than other types of traditional fencing as it will keep not only a heavy animal pent-up but also one that tends to test the limits of a fence. This type of fencing is also ideal for keeping out larger wildlife types that may threaten livestock.

Hog Wire Fence

Hog wire fence cost per foot is between $3 and $10 per linear foot. Your hog wire fence price will be determined by the fence's length, with most having 16 foot long panels. These fences are designed to surround pens containing hogs and are strong enough to prevent them from pushing through. They are built with a wire affixed to wooden posts or frames. The mesh on a hog fence is different than others as the mesh is tighter at the bottom in the area they are more likely to push through. Hog wire fences are more expensive than other wire fences because they are made of encased panels that the wire is stretched on. They are more similar to chain link fences than true wire fences but have a wooden or metal frame that can increase the costs significantly. It is possible to purchase the material without a frame and install it around a garden for much less. But if you intend to use it for hogs or other livestock, your costs will be significantly higher.

Welded Wire Fence

Between $4 and $10 per linear foot is what you can expect to pay for a welded fence. Welded wire fences are constructed by forming squares or rectangles using different configurations. The wires are then affixed to each other through welding. This process creates a series of strong fencing sheets, which are ample to keep in or out whatever you desire. This type of fence will typically be used when you need a substantial fence to provide a more decorative appearance. A welded wire fence can be made of only wire. They can also be made with a wooden frame, such as the hog wire fence. Having a frame on this fence increases its cost dramatically, while only the wire and posts can have much lower costs.

Wire Fence Post Cost by Material

Wire fences need to be secured by affixing them to posts that are secured to the ground. You can use wood or metal posts of varying shape and type, depending on the fence type. When installing a new fence, the cost of the posts is included in the overall cost of the fence installation. However, if you need to replace the posts or want to extend your fence a short distance, you may need to price out your posts singly. While the post and wire fence cost depends on the type of fence, between $20 and $60 is what you can expect to pay for the post and its installation, depending on the material. Below you will see the average cost based on material and the use of each material.

Wood Posts

When you choose wire fencing with wood posts, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per post. Wood posts come in a wide range of thicknesses. Some may even have decorative tops. Wooden posts are most often used in combination with wooden frames or when mesh wire is used to create a contaminant pen. Typically, they are seen in chicken, hog, and other livestock fences. Wood posts can be more appealing than metal posts and allow for more versatility with the configurations. Eventually, the wood may rot and need to be replaced.

Metal Posts

Metal wire fencing posts made of wire run on average between $25 and $60 each. Metal posts range from thin rods of metal to more solid thick pieces with or without footers or end caps. Choosing the right one for your fence depends on how strong you need your fence to be, its purpose, and the type of material you affix to it. Thinner rods can be used with tiny wire, while thicker wire may require heavier poles. Metal poles are typically more durable than wooden posts, requiring little maintenance. The main drawback is they are usually less aesthetically pleasing. You can save time digging your post holes by opting for T posts. These posts include a “t” formation on the bottom to better root it into the ground.

Labor Cost to Install a Wire Fence

To have a professional install a fence, you can expect to pay between $40 and $60 per hour for labor. This generally translates to $0.92 to $5 a linear foot in labor costs, depending on the type of fence, its location, and the terrain you are installing it over. Most fences can be installed in 1 to 3 days, although the actual amount of time depends on the fence’s total size. Wire fences are fairly fast to install once the posts are set, but they are generally installed over large areas. This means that while it may take about a day to install wire fencing around a garden or small animal pen, it can take several days to complete a multi-acre wire fence installation. It is best to hire a professional to install a fence. Professionals know best how to space the posts and handle the material so that your fence lasts as long as it should. They also have experience handling materials that may be more dangerous to handle, such as barbed or razor wire.

One thing to consider when determining the length and cost of the job is the condition of the ground. If the terrain is uneven, hard to get to, or has a significant slope, it adds to the length of time the job takes and, therefore, the cost. For significant unevenness, you may want to consider having the area resloped, running an average of $1,300.

Coated Wire Fence Cost by Type

Coating for wire fences is ideal when added protection from the elements is needed. Most wire fencing has some coating already applied. These coatings can change the way the fence looks or feels, while also helping to protect the fencing from things like corrosion. Depending on the type of coated fence you purchase, you can pay between $1 and $6 per linear foot for the fencing installed. Coatings can be chosen for many reasons. One common reason is to choose a coating that is made to withstand the climate where you live. Another reason homeowners may choose a specific coated fence option is to increase the aesthetic appearance. Below you will see the various coating options and the average price you can expect to pay per linear foot for the wire fencing, including installation.

Powder Coat

You can expect to pay between $1 and $5 per linear foot for powder-coated wire fencing. Three types of powder coating are available. PVC is the most durable option. PE is more flexible, and PUR is better in warm conditions. Powder coating stands up well against salt and acid, making it ideal for coastal areas with high moisture content. Powder coating is popular with many homeowners because it provides added durability and can be colored to customize the appearance.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel coated wire fencing can cost anywhere from $1.60 to $4.50 per linear foot installed. Stainless steel welded wire fences are known to be the most durable and longest-lasting. It is rust-resistant and can withstand harsh elements no matter the weather of the area. While the initial investment is more, it can be more cost-effective as it requires little maintenance and lasts for a long time. Stainless steel provides an aesthetically pleasing and highly finished look.

GBW

GBW, or galvanized before weld coated wire fence, runs between $2.50 and $5.50 per linear foot and is a more cost-effective option. It is available in a wide variety of styles, so you can better customize the look of your fence. The wire is welded with no zinc coating and then galvanized on the formed weld. While the process makes it less expensive, it is more prone to rust and shortens its lifespan.

VC

You can expect to pay between $2.50 and $5.50 for VC or vinyl coated wire fence. VC welded wire is created by coating the wire with a PVC layer after the welding process is complete. This type of coating provides ideal protection against harsh environmental elements and keeps it from rusting. The benefits of this type of coating are that it provides a longer life for the fence and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

E-Coat

Another costly option is an e-coat, which runs between $3 and $6 per linear foot. E-coat is designed to protect both the inside and the outside of the wire from corrosion. This type of coating requires a multi-stage treatment process which attributes to its higher cost. It is popular with homeowners because it is low maintenance and averse to weathering effects, rust, and corrosion.

GAW

Galvanized after weld (GAW) coated fence costs an average of $3 to $6 per linear foot. With this process, the wire will be dipped into zinc until it is fully encased then the welding or weaving process begins. This process allows the wires to be fully galvanized, ensuring that even the welded joints are protected. While this process makes it slightly more costly than GAW, it gives the fence a longer life. The main drawback to GAW is it is a more costly option than GBW.

Electric Fence Wire Price

You can expect to pay between $6.00 and $9.00 per linear foot to have an electric wire fence installed on your property. Electric fences are typically used when there is a threat to livestock by outside wild animals. It can drive off even large predators, and livestock can be trained to avoid touching it.

The benefit of electric wire fencing is that it can be effective without being heavy and easily formed into any configuration you want. Drawbacks to this type of fence are that it can be dangerous to humans, requiring energy to operate.

Electric fencing is not a popular fencing solution, especially for homeowners outside of rural areas. It is often only used when there is a real threat of danger from predators. Electric fences can result in significant injuries to both humans and animals and can be costly to maintain in terms of power.

Those looking to save on the energy cost of electric fences can opt for a solar electric fence. Solar fencing wire price is similar to that of any other wire fence. It will cost between $200 and $400 more for the solar panel needed to power it.

Chain Link vs Wire Fence

Both wire and chain-link fences serve the same general purpose: to keep things in, out, or separated. Both provide some security level, but wire fences designed for the same purposes as chain link tend to be more secure since they are often harder to cut than chain link fences. Wire fences can be shaped to make them stronger and harder to reach by creating tighter patterns. Wire fences are also more easily configurable with more wire and post options to create something visually appealing and secure.

Chain link fences follow a standard pattern with heavy, thick links affixed together, completing a horizontal pattern between posts. The size of the links can inhibit the view and give a more industrial look to the yard.

The biggest difference between the two materials is where they are used. Wire fences are most commonly used to surround gardens, animal pens, and fence large amounts of land. Chain link may be used to surround a smaller yard, play area, pet yard, or for industrial security. For this reason, chain link fence installations tend to be smaller than wire fence installations. This means that while the typical chain link fence may be more expensive per linear foot, you may find that wire fences tend to be more costly overall. However, when comparing the same installation size, wire fences are less expensive. Below are the average costs for wire and chain link fence installations for 200 linear feet of each material.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Paint Fence

Most wire fences are designed to be secure more than aesthetically pleasing. If you are trying to upgrade your wire fence's look, you can choose to have it painted for $2 to $7 per linear foot. Your professional starts by prepping the surface and removing any rust or corrosion. Then they will prime it before they paint it to ensure better paint adhesion.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. In most cases, adding a fence to your yard requires permits. It is best to check with your local zoning and regulation laws to see if this is required. The cost for permits will be included with your professional quote.
• DIY. Some people may choose to install their wire fence on their own, but the amount of time required for the job often makes hiring a professional more cost-effective. Additionally, a professional knows how to secure the fence to make sure it lasts as long as possible.
• Value. Adding a wire fence outside of your home does not directly add value to your home, but it can make it more appealing to buyers if it is needed for the area being enclosed.
• Warranty. Most materials used to construct a wire fence come with at least a one-year warranty. Your professional installer may guarantee their work for a specific time.
• Terrain. It is always easiest to install a fence on a flat area. If the area is sloped or uneven, it may be beneficial to even the terrain out before installation begins. Otherwise, the installation costs could be higher.
• Maintenance. For wire fences, there is little maintenance involved. Typically, the wire used will be resistant to rust. For those that rust, it can be gently removed with a wire brush. Other maintenance issues you may encounter with a wire fence include snapped wires that need to be fixed and rotted wooden posts that may need to be replaced.
• Livestock security. Suppose you are looking for a fence to contain livestock, keep wild animals out, or provide security for the area. In that case, other fencing alternatives include wooden fences or metal, aluminum, wrought iron, or vinyl options.
• Protection. You can choose to add razor wire to the top of any fence to provide additional protection from animals or trespassers. While this will include additional costs for materials, the installation costs will not be much higher if performed during the initial installation.