Beyond the Pickets: Understanding 6 ft Cedar Fence Installation Costs

Why Understanding Cedar Fence Installation Costs Matters

The cost of 6 ft cedar fence installed typically ranges from $25 to $55 per linear foot, with total project costs averaging $3,700 to $9,300 for a standard 200-linear-foot installation. However, quotes can vary widely based on factors many homeowners don't consider, like cedar grade, property terrain, and regional labor rates. Understanding these variables is key to setting an accurate budget.

Quick Cost Breakdown:

• Material costs: $8.50 - $18 per linear foot
• Labor costs: $10 - $30 per linear foot
• National average: $25.46 per linear foot installed
• Typical project (200 ft): $5,000 - $11,000
• New England pricing: Often 10-30% higher than national averages

Cedar is a top choice for 6-foot privacy fences because it naturally resists rot and insects while aging to a beautiful silver-gray. Its durability comes at a mid-range price, sitting between pressure-treated pine and premium materials like composite.

Whether you're boosting curb appeal or creating a safe space for pets, knowing the real costs helps you avoid surprises. Labor often makes up 50% of the total, and extras like gates, permits, and old fence removal can add significantly to your project.

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This guide breaks down all the factors influencing the cost of a 6 ft cedar fence installation so you can plan your project with confidence.

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Breaking Down the Average Cost of 6 ft Cedar Fence Installed

The cost of 6 ft cedar fence installed is a complete package of materials, labor, and professional expertise.

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Most homeowners spend between $25 and $55 per linear foot for a professionally installed 6-foot cedar privacy fence. For a typical 200-linear-foot backyard, the total project cost lands between $3,700 and $9,300, with an average around $6,500. This range exists because cedar grade, fence style, and local conditions significantly influence the final price.

National vs. Regional: The True Cost of 6 ft Cedar Fence Installed

Where you live matters. While the national average provides a baseline, your actual costs depend on local market conditions. In New England—specifically New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine—you should budget for prices 10-30% higher than the national average. This is due to higher labor and material transportation costs in the Northeast.

We monitor labor trends using resources like the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics to provide accurate, market-reflective estimates. For a deeper dive into local pricing, see our guide on fence cost per linear foot in NH, MA, ME.

Material vs. Labor Cost Breakdown

Every fence quote consists of two main parts: materials and labor. Understanding this split shows you where your money is going.

• Materials: Cedar materials typically run $8.50 to $18 per linear foot. This includes boards, posts, rails, and hardware.
• Labor: Professional installation adds another $10 to $30 per linear foot. This covers the expertise required for digging post holes, setting posts correctly, and building a durable, level fence.

On average, labor accounts for about 50% of your total fence installation cost. When combined, the total installed cost generally ranges from $18.50 to $46.50 per linear foot, reflecting both quality materials and professional craftsmanship. For more details, see our article on wood fence installation costs.

Key Factors That Drive Your Final Price

Beyond the basic per-foot cost, several key factors can significantly alter your final price. Knowing these helps you plan effectively and avoid surprises.

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Cedar Material: Grade and Style

The quality and style of cedar you choose directly impact cost.

• Grade: #1 Grade cedar has fewer knots and a uniform look, making it a premium, more expensive option. #2 Grade has more knots and natural character, offering a rustic look at a lower price. Premium selections like Western Red Cedar can cost $45 to $90 per linear foot, while standard options are $15 to $35.
• Style: A solid privacy fence style uses the most material, costing $10 to $16.50 per linear foot for materials. A picket style is more open and uses less wood ($9 to $16.25 per linear foot), while a rustic split-rail fence is often the most budget-friendly material choice ($8.50 to $13.50 per linear foot). Learn more about types of wood privacy fences.

Labor and Site Conditions

The characteristics of your yard determine installation complexity and labor costs, which typically run $25 to $60 per hour or $10 to $30 per linear foot. Difficult site conditions can add $4.50 to $20 per linear foot to labor costs. Key challenges include:

• Sloped Terrain: Requires "stepping" panels or contouring the fence, which takes more time and precision.
• Rocky Soil: New England's rocky ground can make digging post holes difficult and time-consuming, sometimes requiring specialized equipment.
• Obstacles: Existing trees, landscaping, and underground utilities require careful workarounds.
• Site Access: Limited access for equipment means more manual labor, increasing time and cost.

This is why an on-site assessment is crucial for an accurate quote. Resources like the HUD PATH Rehab Guide for Site Work detail how such conditions impact project planning.

DIY vs. Professional: Calculating the Cost of 6 ft Cedar Fence Installed

The DIY route can save you $10 to $30 per linear foot in labor, but it comes with hidden costs. You'll need to invest significant time (multiple days of hard labor) and money in renting or buying tools like post-hole diggers and saws. More importantly, mistakes in alignment, spacing, or depth can lead to a weak, crooked fence that costs more to fix than professional installation would have in the first place.

Professional installation offers expertise honed over hundreds of projects. We handle New England's tough soil and varied terrain to build a fence that lasts. You also get warranties on materials and craftsmanship, ensured code compliance, and your weekends back. For most homeowners, the quality, peace of mind, and time savings make professional installation the smarter long-term investment. Our guide on hiring a wooden fence installation company offers more insights.

Beyond the Linear Foot: Additional Costs to Budget For

Your total project cost goes beyond the per-linear-foot price. Several other essential expenses can add hundreds or thousands to your final bill.

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Gates, Permits, and Old Fence Removal

These are common line items on a fence estimate:

• Gates: A standard walk gate typically costs $150 to $400. A wider double gate for a driveway can run $800 to $1,200, while automated gates can exceed $1,500.
• Old Fence Removal: Tearing down and hauling away an old fence generally costs $3 to $7 per linear foot. For a 200-foot fence, that's an additional $600 to $1,400.
• Permits: While not always required for 6-foot fences, it's crucial to check with your local building department. When needed, permits typically cost $100 to $500, including the fee ($20-$60) and potential plan reviews or inspections. Our guide to fence building rules in Massachusetts provides more state-specific details.

Long-Term Value: Lifespan, Maintenance, and ROI

The initial price is just the start; a cedar fence's true value unfolds over decades.

• Lifespan: A cedar fence can last 15 to 30 years untreated, and up to 40 years with proper maintenance. Its natural oils resist decay, moisture, and insects.
• Maintenance: To maintain your fence, plan on annual cleaning and applying a fresh sealant every 2 to 3 years. Staining to preserve the wood's color costs $2 to $5 per square foot. The average fence repair runs about $600. Our fence repair services can help when needed.
• Return on Investment (ROI): A quality cedar fence is a great investment. It can increase your home's value by up to 70% of the project cost, with some studies showing a 1-10% boost to overall property value. Beyond the numbers, you get to enjoy the privacy and beauty every day.

How Cedar Compares to Other Fencing Materials

Choosing a fencing material involves balancing cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. Here’s how cedar stacks up against other popular options.

• Cedar: Costs $25 to $45 per linear foot installed. Lasts 15-40 years with care. Requires sealing/staining every 2-3 years. Offers a natural wood look that ages to a silver-gray.
• Pressure-Treated Pine: Costs $15 to $45 per linear foot installed. Lasts 10-15 years. Requires regular staining/painting and is prone to warping. A budget-friendly but less refined option.
• Vinyl (PVC): Costs $20 to $65 per linear foot installed. Lasts 20-35+ years. Requires minimal maintenance (occasional washing). Offers a modern, manufactured look.

Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated Pine

The most common wood fence debate is cedar vs. pine. Pine is more affordable upfront, typically costing $15 to $45 per linear foot installed. However, this initial saving comes with trade-offs. Pine has a shorter lifespan of 10-15 years and is more prone to warping and splitting, requiring more frequent maintenance.

Cedar, with its natural resistance to rot and insects, lasts 2-3 times longer (15-30+ years). It ages gracefully and requires less intensive upkeep. When considering the total cost over the fence's lifespan, cedar often proves to be the more economical long-term investment.

Cedar vs. Vinyl (PVC)

For those prioritizing low maintenance, vinyl is a compelling alternative. At $20 to $65 per linear foot installed, its upfront cost is comparable to cedar. Vinyl's main advantage is its minimal upkeep—it never needs painting or staining and can be cleaned with a hose. With a lifespan of 20-35+ years, it's built to last.

The choice often comes down to aesthetics. Cedar provides an authentic, natural wood look that blends with landscaping and develops character over time. Vinyl offers a clean, uniform, and modern appearance that remains consistent year after year. For a full comparison, check out our guide on privacy fence options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cedar Fence Costs

Here are answers to the most common questions we receive from homeowners in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine about the cost of 6 ft cedar fence installed.

How can I save money on a cedar fence installation?

There are several ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality:

• Choose a simpler style: A picket or split-rail fence uses less material than a full privacy fence.
• Install in the off-season: Contractors may offer discounts of 10-20% during the slower fall and winter months.
• Do the prep work yourself: Clearing the fence line or removing an old fence can save hundreds on labor costs ($3-$7 per linear foot for removal).
• Talk to your neighbor: If you share a property line, splitting the cost is a great way to save.

How long does it take to install a 6 ft cedar fence?

A professional installation of a typical cedar fence takes 2 to 4 days. The exact timeline depends on the fence's length, terrain complexity (slopes or rocky soil), and crew size. Weather can also cause delays. We prioritize quality craftsmanship to ensure your fence is built to last, rather than rushing the job.

Does a cedar fence add value to my home?

Yes, a well-built cedar fence is an excellent investment that adds value in several ways.

• Curb Appeal: The natural beauty of cedar instantly improves your property's appearance.
• Privacy and Security: A 6-foot privacy fence creates a safe, secluded space for families and pets, a highly desirable feature for buyers.
• Financial ROI: A quality fence can increase your home's value by up to 70% of the project cost. Some studies suggest it can add 1-10% to your property's overall value. A cedar fence is an improvement that you can enjoy now and that pays off when you sell.

Get a Professional Quote for Your Cedar Fence Project

While this guide provides a solid overview of the cost of 6 ft cedar fence installed, the only way to get a truly accurate number is with a professional, on-site estimate. Every yard in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine has unique characteristics—from sloped terrain to rocky soil—that impact the final cost.

At Brentwood Fence LLC, we don't use cookie-cutter pricing. We provide transparent, detailed quotes based on your property's specific needs, your chosen materials, and local requirements. Our expertise in handling New England's climate and soil conditions ensures you get a high-quality fence built to last, backed by a solid warranty. We manage all the details, including code compliance and permits, for your peace of mind.

Ready to transform your outdoor space into a private retreat? We'd love to walk your property, answer your questions, and provide an accurate, no-obligation quote. Learn more about our privacy fencing installation services in NH and find how Brentwood Fence can bring your vision to life.