How Many Fence Posts Do I Need?
The number of fence posts you need depends on two things: total fence length and post spacing. For most wood and vinyl fences, posts are set every 8 feet on center. Chain link uses 10-foot spacing. Divide your total length by the spacing, then add 1 for the end post. Add 2 extra posts for every gate opening.
Quick Calculator
Posts
16
Concrete
32
Pickets
320
Rails
39
Est. Cost
$1,500–$2,500
Detailed Answer
The formula is simple: divide your total fence length by the post spacing, then add 1 for the end post. For each gate, add 2 more posts.
Wood & vinyl (8 ft spacing): posts = ceil(length ÷ 8) + 1 + (gates × 2) Chain link (10 ft spacing): posts = ceil(length ÷ 10) + 1 + (gates × 2)
For a 100-foot wood privacy fence with one gate: ceil(100 ÷ 8) + 1 + 2 = 16 posts. A 200-foot run: 28 posts. Each post needs 2 bags of 60lb concrete.
Recommended Materials
Pressure-Treated Fence Post 4×4×8
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Cedar Dog-Ear Picket 1×6×6
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Quikrete 60 lb Fast-Setting Concrete
Sets in 20-40 minutes. No mixing required.
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Post Hole Digger – Fiberglass Handle
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Simpson Strong-Tie Fence Bracket
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Decorative Post Cap 4×4
Copper-top cap, fits standard 4×4 posts.
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