The short answer
Angi's cost guides put the national average for a fence installation at roughly $2,700 to $2,900, with most projects in the low-to-mid thousands. That average includes a lot of short runs and simple materials. A full backyard in Tallahassee, often 150 to 250 feet with one or two gates, commonly lands higher, especially in vinyl or aluminum.
Price per foot by material
| Fence type | Installed, per linear foot | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Chain link (4 ft, galvanized or black coated) | $15–$35 | Cheapest way to enclose a big yard |
| Farm & ranch (board or wire) | $15–$35 | Long runs bring the per-foot price down |
| Wood privacy (6 ft pressure-treated pine) | $22–$45 | Shadowbox and board-on-board cost more |
| Vinyl privacy (6 ft) | $35–$60 | Higher up front, little upkeep |
| Aluminum (4–5 ft ornamental) | $35–$75 | Pool-code styles and heavier rails cost more |
Typical installed ranges reported by national cost guides such as Angi. Gates, removal of an old fence, slopes, rock or roots and permit fees come on top. The written quote from your contractor is the number that counts.
Worked examples
These are rough illustrations using the ranges above, not quotes:
- 160 ft of 6 ft wood privacy at $22–$45 per foot: about $3,500 to $7,200, plus a walk gate.
- 160 ft of 6 ft vinyl privacy at $35–$60: about $5,600 to $9,600, plus gates.
- 80 ft of 4 ft aluminum around a pool at $35–$75: about $2,800 to $6,000, plus code-rated gates.
- 400 ft of 4 ft galvanized chain link on a large lot at $15–$25: about $6,000 to $10,000.
Want a real number for your yard?Get a free quote
What pushes the price up or down
- Length and layout: long straight runs cost less per foot than short runs with many corners.
- Height: six feet costs more than four, in material and in post depth.
- Gates: each gate is priced separately. Double drive gates and automated gates add the most.
- Removing the old fence: tear-out and haul-away is usually a separate line item.
- Terrain: slopes, roots from big oaks, rock and wet ground all add labor. North Tallahassee's hills and clay and the sandy, wet ground to the south each have their own challenges.
- Material grade: board-on-board vs. stockade, heavier vinyl profiles, commercial-grade aluminum.
- Access: narrow side yards mean posts and concrete are carried in by hand.
- Season and demand: after a big storm, schedules fill and prices can firm up. Winter is often a quieter time to book.
Costs people forget
- Permit fees, where a permit is required (see the permit guide)
- A survey or corner stakes if you are not sure where the property line is
- Clearing brush or vines along the fence line
- Staining a new wood fence after it dries (see staining)
How to compare quotes
A good quote lists the fence height and style, post size and spacing, how posts are set, the gate count and hardware, removal of the old fence, cleanup, permit handling and warranty. Two quotes that differ by a thousand dollars often differ in exactly these points. Ask, and get the answers in writing.
Financing and insurance
Some contractors offer financing. For storm damage, homeowners insurance may cover fence repair or replacement under "other structures," minus the deductible. See fence repair.
Before any post hole is dug, Florida law requires a locate request through Sunshine 811 at least two full business days ahead, so buried power, gas, water and cable lines get marked. A good contractor handles this for you; ask to make sure.
How getting a quote works
- Tell us about the project. Fence type, rough length, timing and ZIP code. It takes about a minute.
- One local contractor gets in touch. We pass your request to one licensed fence contractor who works in your area. Not five companies, not a bidding war on your phone.
- Free on-site measure and written quote. They walk the line, check gates, slopes and trees, and give you a price in writing. You decide if and when to go ahead.
Material decisions: wood vs vinyl and the best fence for North Florida weather.
Common questions
What is the cheapest fence to install in Tallahassee?
Galvanized chain link and simple wire fencing are usually the lowest cost per foot. For privacy, a basic pressure-treated pine fence is the least expensive option.
Why do fence quotes vary so much?
Differences in posts, gates, removal of the old fence, material grade and terrain. Compare quotes line by line.
Is a deposit normal?
Many contractors ask for a deposit to order materials. Get the deposit amount, schedule and payment terms in writing.
