Deer Fence Calculator: Height, Mesh & Cost
Deer can clear a 6-foot fence from a standstill, so effective deer fences are typically 7.5 to 8 feet tall. Most use lightweight polypropylene or welded-wire mesh on tall posts, which keeps the cost far below a solid 8-foot wood fence.
Quick Calculator
Posts
43
Concrete
86
Mesh Rolls (50 ft)
8
Rails
40
Est. Cost
$3,200–$6,000
Posts for a deer fence
Use 10- to 12-foot posts so you get 8 feet above ground. Line posts can go every 12–15 feet for poly mesh, but corners and gates need heavy wood or steel posts with bracing because the mesh is pulled tight.
Mesh options
Polypropylene deer netting is the cheapest and nearly invisible from a distance. Welded or woven steel wire costs more but resists chewing and storm damage. Our calculator shows chain link as the closest standard option; swap in mesh rolls at the same length.
Solid fences work at lower heights
Deer rarely jump what they cannot see over. A 6-foot solid wood privacy fence often deters deer around a small yard, even though it is lower than the 8-foot rule.
Example: 400 Feet of Chain Link
A typical deer fence of 400 feet using chain link fencing needs about 43 posts (including one gate) and 86 bags of concrete, with materials around $3,200–$6,000. Change the length and type in the calculator above to match your project.
Materials List – 400 ft of Chain Link
| Material | Qty | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fence Posts (4×4×6 ft) | 43 | $645 |
| Concrete Mix (60 lb bags) | 86 | $516 |
| Rails (2×4×10 ft) | 40 | $280 |
| Mesh Rolls (50 ft) | 8 | $560 |
| Total Estimated Materials | $3,200 – $6,000 |
Other Fence Projects
Recommended Materials
Pressure-Treated Fence Post 4×4×8
Ground-contact rated, ideal for all fence types.
$12 – $18
Cedar Dog-Ear Picket 1×6×6
Naturally rot-resistant, smooth on one side.
$3 – $6
Quikrete 60 lb Fast-Setting Concrete
Sets in 20-40 minutes. No mixing required.
$5 – $7
Post Hole Digger – Fiberglass Handle
Heavy-duty clamshell digger for clean holes.
$35 – $55
Simpson Strong-Tie Fence Bracket
Galvanized L-bracket for rail-to-post connections.
$4 – $8
Decorative Post Cap 4×4
Copper-top cap, fits standard 4×4 posts.
$5 – $12