DIY vs Professional Fence Installation Cost
Doing it yourself, you pay only for materials and tool rental. Hiring a pro typically adds about $5–$15 per linear foot in labor on top of materials. For a 150-foot wood privacy fence, that is roughly $2,250–$3,750 DIY versus about $3,000–$6,000 installed.
Quick Calculator
Posts
22
Concrete
44
Pickets
480
Rails
57
Est. Cost
$2,250–$3,750
Detailed Answer
150 ft wood privacy fence example: - Materials: $2,250–$3,750 ($15–$25/ft) - Labor if hired: $750–$2,250 ($5–$15/ft) - DIY total: about $2,250–$3,750 plus tool rental - Professional total: about $3,000–$6,000
DIY extra costs: power auger rental ($50–$75/day), string line, levels, a circular saw, and fasteners if not already owned.
DIY time: most homeowners install 50–75 feet per full day, so 150 feet is about 3 working days.
Hiring makes sense for long runs, rocky soil, steep slopes, or when you need the fence fast. DIY makes sense if you have a few free weekends and a helper.
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