Quick answer: Chain link costs $10 to $40 per linear foot installed in 2026, averaging near $20. A typical 150 ft fence runs about $1,500 to $6,000. Multiply length by the rate for your height, then add gates ($100 to $450 each) and removal ($3 to $5 per foot).
How chain link fence cost is calculated
cost = length × rate per ft + gates + removalRate rises with height and coatingTaller fences use more mesh, longer posts and deeper footings. Angi’s 2026 data puts installed prices at $8 to $40 per foot, with labor about half the total.
Worked example: a 150 ft backyard fence
150 ft of 6 ft galvanized chain link, one gate
- Fence: 150 × $15 to $28 = $2,250 to $4,200
- Gate: $100 to $450
Result: $2,350 to $4,650 installed
That matches HomeGuide’s $1,500 to $6,000 range for 150 ft.
Chain link fence cost per foot by height (2026)
| Height | Installed per foot | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | $10 – $20 | Front yards, pets |
| 6 ft | $15 – $28 | Standard backyards |
| 8 ft | $20 – $40 | Security, commercial |
Black or vinyl-coated mesh adds roughly $3 to $8 per foot.
What affects your chain link fence cost
- Height: an 8 ft fence can cost double a 4 ft one.
- Gauge: 9-gauge is residential standard; 6-gauge commercial costs more.
- Coating: vinyl-coated resists rust and looks cleaner.
- Gates: walk gates $100 to $450; automated rolling gates far more.
- Terrain: slopes and rock add 15 to 25% to labor.
- Removal: $3 to $5 per foot.
Tips for a more accurate estimate
- Measure each run separately and add them.
- Get three local quotes; prices vary 20 to 30%.
- Book late fall or winter.
- Remove the old fence yourself where safe.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chain link fence cost per foot in 2026?
$10 to $40 per linear foot installed, with a national average near $20. 4 ft fences run $10 to $20 per foot and 8 ft security fences $20 to $40.
How much does a 150 ft chain link fence cost?
Typically $1,500 to $6,000 installed. A standard 6 ft galvanized fence with one gate usually lands around $2,350 to $4,650.
Is chain link the cheapest fence to install?
Yes. It generally costs less per foot than wood, vinyl or aluminum and needs no staining or sealing.
Does black vinyl-coated chain link cost more?
Slightly: about $3 to $8 more per foot than bare galvanized, for better rust resistance and a cleaner look.
How much does a chain link gate cost?
A standard swing gate is $100 to $450 installed. Double drive gates and automated rolling gates often run $500 to $1,800 or more.
Does removing an old fence add to the cost?
Yes, usually $3 to $5 per linear foot.
Related tools
Accuracy note: Rates come from Angi, HomeGuide, Homewyse and Ergeon 2026 data. This is a planning estimate; confirm with licensed local installers.
Content Lead, Anchor AI Tools, California, USA. Spotted an error? Email hello@anchoraitools.com and it will be checked and corrected. See our editorial standards.