Aluminum Fence Cost Per Foot
Aluminum fencing runs $25–$40 per linear foot installed — more than wood or chain link, but far less than wrought iron. It's rust-proof, low maintenance, and lasts 30+ years.
Average Cost Per Foot
| Cost Type | Low End | High End | Typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials only (DIY) | $10/ft | $20/ft | $14/ft |
| Professionally installed | $25/ft | $40/ft | $32/ft |
| 100-ft project (installed) | $2,500 | $4,000 | $3,200 |
| 150-ft project (installed) | $3,750 | $6,000 | $4,800 |
Cost by Style
| Style | Materials ($/ft) | Installed ($/ft) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat top (residential) | $10–$16 | $25–$35 | Backyards, basic decorative |
| Spear top (ornamental) | $14–$22 | $30–$45 | Front yards, curb appeal |
| Pool fence (self-closing) | $18–$28 | $35–$55 | Pool code compliance |
| Commercial grade | $22–$35 | $40–$65 | Security, high-traffic areas |
Cost by Height
| Height | Materials ($/ft) | Installed ($/ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ft | $8–$14 | $20–$30 |
| 4 ft (most common) | $10–$18 | $25–$38 |
| 5 ft | $14–$22 | $28–$44 |
| 6 ft | $18–$28 | $35–$55 |
DIY vs. Contractor
- Saves $10–$20/ft in labor
- Aluminum panels are light — manageable solo
- Post-setting is the critical step (concrete)
- Allow 1–2 days for 100 linear feet
- Requires post-hole digger rental (~$80/day)
- Includes layout, digging, setting, and leveling
- Warranty on workmanship (typically 1 year)
- Better result on slopes and uneven terrain
- Get 3 quotes — prices vary 20–30%
- Most contractors include permit filing
Aluminum vs. Steel vs. Vinyl
| Feature | Aluminum | Steel / Wrought Iron | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installed cost | $25–$40/ft | $30–$60/ft | $25–$60/ft |
| Rust resistance | Rust-proof | Will rust without care | Rust-proof |
| Lifespan | 30–50 yrs | 20–40 yrs | 20–30 yrs |
| Privacy | None (open pickets) | None (open pickets) | Full (solid panels) |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Light-medium |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does aluminum fencing cost per foot?
$25–$40 per linear foot installed, or $10–$20/ft for materials only. A 150-foot backyard fence runs $3,750–$6,000 professionally installed.
How long does aluminum fence last?
30–50 years. Aluminum doesn't rust, rot, or require painting. Most residential products come with a 20–30 year warranty.
Does aluminum fence need maintenance?
Minimal — rinse annually, check post footings every few years, tighten any loose screws. The powder-coat finish may fade after 20+ years but requires no repainting.
Is aluminum cheaper than wrought iron?
Yes. Aluminum costs $25–$40/ft installed vs. $30–$60/ft for wrought iron. Aluminum is also lighter and rust-proof. The tradeoff: it can't be repaired by welding — damaged sections must be replaced.
Is aluminum fence good for pool areas?
Yes — aluminum is a popular pool fence material because it won't rust in a humid, chemical-rich environment. Pool-code versions include self-closing, self-latching gates and meet most state safety requirements.
Reviewed by the FenceCalculate.com Editorial Team · Last reviewed: August 2026