If you’re in the market for a new privacy fence, understanding the current landscape of material costs and design trends is the first step toward a successful backyard transformation.
While our original post was written in April 2021, the market has shifted significantly. Here is an updated look at what it costs to install a privacy fence in 2026.
Note: This post was originally published in April 2021 and has been fully updated with 2026 pricing and material trends.
Online, you may find nationwide estimates ranging from $25 to $60 per linear foot.
In truth, with the wide variety of fence material options and choices available, along with continued fluctuations in the supply chain…
You may be looking at something closer to $35 to $55 per linear foot for a standard wood privacy fence.
And $60 to $110 (or more) per linear foot for premium fence options like high-grade cedar or modern composite.
It all depends on the choices you make for your fence.
In This Post
- Cost factors that go into the price of a privacy fence
- Design factors that affect privacy fence cost
- Material choices (Wood, Vinyl, Composite)
- Market forces driving today’s pricing
Finally, if you want a detailed estimate for a privacy fence in Oklahoma, try out our privacy fence cost calculator to view an instant online quote.
What is a Privacy Fence?
A privacy fence is a type of fence that creates a visual barrier and security perimeter between your property and the outside world.
Or sometimes, it acts as a privacy screen between areas on your own property—think patio privacy, pool privacy, or hiding an HVAC enclosure.
The basic (and most common) privacy fence is built with wood posts and vertical wood pickets arranged side-by-side to limit visibility.
This type of fence is usually smooth on one side with visible horizontal wood rails on the other. It remains one of the most economical ways to secure your yard.
Beyond that, you get into more complex privacy fence options.
Each of which can add cost by requiring specialized framing hardware, upgraded wood species, or increased installation labor for custom designs.
You have a lot of control over design and material choices, which means you have control over the final budget for your fence investment.
Design Factors Affecting Privacy Fence Cost
Wood vs. Metal Posts
While metal posts are more expensive at the outset, a privacy fence with metal posts offers a lifetime value that far exceeds traditional wood posts.
Wood posts are the most common point of failure, often rotting at ground level after 10–15 years. With metal, your structural foundation can last for decades, meaning you won’t need to replace your entire fence nearly as often.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Fence
A horizontal privacy fence has become a modern favorite. However, it typically costs 15% to 25% more than a standard vertical fence because it requires higher-grade lumber to prevent sagging and more labor-intensive framing.
Double-sided vs. Single-sided Fence
A standard “stockade” fence has a “pretty side” and an “ugly side.” If you want a fence that looks great from every angle, you’ve got options:
- Shadow Box: Boards alternate on both sides, offering airflow and curb appeal for both you and your neighbor.
- Cap & Trim: A sophisticated vertical design that uses a top rail assembly to “frame” the pickets.
Premium Fence Options
If design is your priority, FenceTrac fencing is a game-changer. With a metal frame and various infill options, it provides a sleek, modern look. While the initial investment is higher than basic wood, it is competitive with other high-end, long-lasting materials.
Material Factors Affecting Privacy Fence Cost
Wood
Western Red Cedar remains the gold standard for fence companies in Tulsa. It naturally resists rot and insects. Remember, a 1″ thick picket will cost more upfront than a 5/8″ picket, but it offers significantly more stability over time.
PVC Vinyl
Vinyl fencing is a “set it and forget it” option. In 2026, vinyl often prices out 30% to 50% higher than wood initially, but you save on long-term maintenance as it never requires staining or sealing.
Composite
Composite is a more dense, premium material. It’s more expensive than vinyl in most cases, often starting at $80+ per linear foot, but offers a wood-like aesthetic with superior longevity.
Market Forces Affecting Privacy Fence Cost
We’ve moved past the extreme volatility of 2021, but labor shortages and global shipping costs keep prices higher than they were five years ago. Because material costs can still shift monthly, there’s no better time to get your fence on order than right now to lock in current pricing.
Privacy Fence Cost Calculator
If you’d like to see a detailed cost for a new privacy fence in Tulsa or Northeast Oklahoma, use our instant online quoting tool.
Just click the link in the header or footer of our website.
Fill in your details, “draw” your fence boundaries on the map, and you’ll see a detailed privacy fence estimate for your yard.
Let Empire Help
We’d love to help you find the right fence that fits your style and your budget. Get an exact cost of a privacy fence per linear foot. Contact us to discuss your options. We’ll be glad to help!
Contact Empire Fence
As a regional leader in residential and commercial fencing, Empire Fence of Tulsa is here to provide professional service at an affordable price. Contact Empire to get a quote ›
