Chain link fencing stands out as an economically advantageous option, making it a preferred choice for many property owners. These fences are available in a variety of heights to suit your particular requirements.

Installing a 6 ft chain link fence costs between $5.25 to $5.40 on average. The type of material used, your location, and installation time can affect the final cost of installing the fence.

Chain link fences are also referred to as cyclone, hurricane, diamond, or wire mesh fences. They are ideal for keeping your home or property safe without completely covering it. Chain link fences can be installed for front and backyards.

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The average cost to install an average chain link fence can fall between $10 to $20 per linear foot. Other high-end variations are also available, which can cost you up to a maximum of $40 per linear foot.

However, chain link fences can come in different heights. With that, their costs for material, labor, and installation can also differ.

Below are some of the average installation costs per linear foot, depending on the height of your chain link fence.

Height of chain link fence Installation cost per linear foot
3-feet chain link fence$12.25 - $23
4-feet chain link fence$13.15 - $23.50
5-feet chain link fence$13.80 - $24.10
6-feet chain link fence$15.25 - $25.40
8-feet chain link fence$16.25 - $26.55
10-feet chain link fence$17.85 - $28.25
12-feet chain link fence$19.50 - $30

Chain link fence material cost per linear foot

There are a lot of factors that can affect the cost of installing a chain link fence on your property. One of them is the amount you spend on your materials.

Depending on the quality and added features that you want, the price can vary. For your reference.

Below are some of the average cost ranges per linear foot for the expenses in purchasing the material. The average ranges below are also sorted depending on the height of the fence.

Height of chain link fence Material cost per linear foot
3-feet chain link fence$2.25 - $3
4-feet chain link fence$3.15 - $3.50
5-feet chain link fence$3.80 - $4.10
6-feet chain link fence$5.25 - $5.40
8-feet chain link fence$6.25 - $6.55
10-feet chain link fence$7.85 - $8.25
12-feet chain link fence$9.50 - $10

Labor cost to install a chain link fence

The table below displays the chain link fence average cost per hour and the cost to install per linear foot.

DescriptionAverage cost
Labor cost per hour $25 - $50
Labor cost per linear foot$5 - $20

Labor cost to install chain link fence per hour

Typically, most fencing companies will offer their services on a per-hour basis when it comes to installing a chain link fence. This, of course, depends on the type and the specifics of the fencing project.

For instance, if you are the one who will provide the materials, the hired professional contractor may bill you somewhere between the average cost of $25 to $50 per hour.

However, it might not be the smartest choice to be billed per hour. This can come at a disadvantage for you especially when your fencing project takes more time to finish than expected.

Labor cost to install chain link fence per linear foot

Normally, the average labor cost to install a chain link fence is around $5 to $20 per linear foot.

Most of the time in fencing projects, the labor cost takes up to 50% to 70% of the entire expenses.

Before you sign a professional contractor to perform the fencing project, it might be wise to first ask them about their rates and discuss a reasonable cost that best suits your budget and expected quality.

How to estimate the cost of installing a chain link fence?

Normally, any home improvement projects would require a certain amount of budget, and installing a fence is certainly one of them.

How to estimate the cost of installing a chain link fence

Fencing projects often require a budget and time. Here are the key elements you should consider when installing a chain link fence.

1. Fence height

Chain link fences are available at different heights, varying from 4 feet to 10 feet height.

Along with the varying heights, the cost can also differ since the materials involved are also different.

Generally speaking, the taller you want your chain link fence to stand, the higher your budget should be.

2. Material cost

Aside from different heights, chain link fences also come in different material types. Some can be made from galvanized material, and some can be black-coated PVC vinyl.

Along with knowing the different types, it is necessary to know their features and differences so that you will be more aware of which type best suits your needs and preferences.

3. Labor cost

The expenses for the labor cost can also vary depending on your hired professional contractor. Some contractors bill their clients by the hour or by linear foot.

In line with this, depending on their experience and reputation, some contractors can also cost you varying quotes.

Normally, their prices involve factors such as their marketing cost, experience, the time it takes to finish the project, and other factors.

One of the helpful steps to help you decide which contractor to sign is to have different quotes from different companies. This way, you can compare their rates and services and pick the one that is best for you.

4. Location

Often overlooked, one of the factors that you should consider in estimating your expenses is the location where you want your chain link fence to be installed.

For locations that have a slope, you can expect additional costs. Normally, flat areas are easier for contractors to work with. Bumpy, rocky, or sloped areas can mean more cost and time to work with.

5. Permits

Before finally installing a chain link fence on your property, you need to check with your local regulations for any required permit that you need to secure.

In most states, any home project that changes the structure of your home may need a permit from your local authorities before you make any improvements.

How long does a chain link fence last?

It is normal for chain link fences to sag, shrink, and rust over time. As time passes by, the wire can also lose its tension, making the fence less strong. On top of this, weather conditions can also contribute to further rusting and damage.

Typically, chain link fences can be expected to last up to 20 years, with the expected upkeep and maintenance. Fencing experts advise that regular inspection and maintenance should be done.

Regular maintenance and repair can help you preserve, if not enhance, the durability and life of your chain link fence. Doing so can help you avoid spending an average of $500 in repair costs.

Advantages and disadvantages of chain link fences

In deciding to have a chain link fence installed on your property for either commercial or residential purposes, it is important to know their pros and cons.

By knowing both their advantages and disadvantages, you will see whether it is best for your needs and expectations for a fence.

Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of installing a chain link fence:

Advantages

  1. Aside from their longevity and long lifespan, chain link fences are notable among other fences since they require less maintenance and are durable compared to other fences.
  2. Another advantage of chain link fences is their versatility which allows you some leeway for alterations or extensions in length.
  3. Compared to other types of fences, chain link fences are also more cost-friendly.
  4. While chain link fences offer less privacy compared to other types of fences, they are more suitable for property owners who would rather not completely enclose their premises
  5. Chain link fences can be installed for both commercial and residential applications

Disadvantages

  1. Although it depends on the type of material used for the fence, some chain link fences have a tendency to rust over time. This goes especially for their metal variations.
  2. In terms of curb appeal for properties, chain link fences do not provide much visual appeal.
  3. Unlike other fences, chain link fences do not provide much privacy for your property from the outside world.
  4. If you want to install it for residential purposes, chain link fences can be illegal to install in some regions. To be sure, check with your local authorities.
Benjamin McInerny
Author: Benjamin McInerny - is a qualified arborist and a DIY Home Improvement enthusiast. Ben has a extensive experience on renovation projects including, mold removal, painting, fence installation and more. Ben shares his skills with DIY and gardening enthusiasts.