Most fences in the Portland and Vancouver area run from about $3,000 for a basic job to $20,000 or more for a premium, built-to-last fence, measured per 100 feet of fence. Most quality fences land in the $7,000 to $20,000 range. Where your project falls comes down to the material, the height, and how well the fence is built to survive our wet Northwest climate.
We have built fences across Portland and Vancouver for over 20 years, so here are real 2026 price ranges, what actually moves the number, and the questions to ask before you sign.
If you already know what you want, we handle fence installation across the Portland metro. If you are still pricing it out, keep reading.
What a Fence Costs in Portland (2026)
Fence pricing is easiest to think about in three build levels. Here is what each one runs for a typical 100-foot run of fence.
| Build level | What you get | Typical price |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Standard materials and posts, minimal prep. Lowest upfront, shortest life (often needs repair in 5 to 7 years). | $3,000 to $7,000 per 100 ft |
| Built to last (most popular) | Grade 1 cedar or better, pressure-treated or steel posts, stainless fasteners, warranty. Built for our wind, clay soil, and wet winters. | $7,000 to $20,000 per 100 ft |
| Custom or ultra premium | Specialty materials, custom designs, top-tier everything. Longest life and highest curb appeal. | $20,000 to $50,000+ per 100 ft |
A standard build works out to roughly $30 to $70 per foot. The material sets the starting point, and everything below moves the number within your tier.
How Much Does a Cedar Fence Cost in Portland?
Cedar is the most popular fence in Portland, and for good reason: our wet winters and clay soil are hard on wood, and western red cedar naturally resists rot, decay, and insects far better than pine or fir. Two things swing the price more than anything else.
- Cedar grade. Cheap builder-grade cedar has more knots and warps, twists, and cracks in a wet climate. We use Grade 1 or better on every fence at no upsell, because builder-grade is exactly what fails early here.
- Posts. Standard pressure-treated posts are the baseline. Upgrading to steel posts is the single best money you can spend in our soil, since the posts almost always fail before the boards do.
Not sure which look you want? Our guide to cedar fence styles walks through standard, horizontal, good neighbor, and board on board.
How Much Does a Chain Link Fence Cost?
Chain link is the budget-friendly, low-maintenance pick, and it sits at the bottom of the price range for a standard residential height. It is hard to beat for back yards, dog runs, and property lines where security matters more than looks. Price climbs with height, heavier commercial-grade wire, and add-ons like privacy slats, top and bottom rails, and black or green coated frames.
Vinyl and Steel Fence Costs
Vinyl costs more up front than wood but never needs staining or sealing, which can make it cheaper over 20 years. Ornamental steel is the most durable option we install, rated to shrug off rot, rust, and Northwest weather, and it is a strong choice when you want the look of iron with almost no maintenance.
What Actually Drives the Price
Two fences that look the same on day one can be thousands apart. Here is where the money goes.
- Length. Fencing is priced per foot, so total footage is the biggest single factor.
- Height. A 6-foot fence needs roughly 50 percent more material and longer posts than a 4-foot fence.
- Posts and hardware. Steel posts, stainless fasteners, and concrete footings cost more but are what make a fence last decades.
- Gates. Each gate adds a few hundred dollars depending on size and hardware.
- Old fence removal. Tearing out and hauling an old fence typically adds about $2 to $5 per foot.
- Terrain and permits. Sloped or rocky yards take more labor, and some projects need a permit.
Across a typical Portland project, labor runs roughly 45 to 60 percent of the total and materials the rest, which is why a cheap bid usually means cheaper materials or a rushed crew, not a better deal.
Why the Cheapest Fence Usually Costs More
The lowest bid is tempting, but in our climate it is often the most expensive fence you will ever buy. Builder-grade cedar and undersized posts can start sagging and graying in 5 to 7 years, and then you pay again. A fence built with Grade 1 cedar, stainless fasteners, and steel posts costs more up front and routinely lasts 20 years or more. We still have over 100 fences standing strong around Portland that our team built two decades ago.
That build quality is the whole point of our fence installation across the Portland metro. It is why our fences last, and why the cheapest quote is rarely the best value.
Want a real number for your yard?
We do free, no-pressure fence quotes across the Portland metro, and we help you match the build to your budget.
Licensed, bonded & insured (OR CCB 198186 / WA L&I EXTERDC884PP) · Grade 1 cedar & steel posts · 20+ years in the Portland area · $0-down financing
Do You Need a Permit for a Fence in Portland?
It depends on the project. In Portland, a back or side-yard fence up to about 6 feet usually does not need a permit, but front-yard fences are held to a lower height limit, and taller fences or corner lots often need review. The rules differ across Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties, so we confirm what your address allows before we build, and we handle the permit when one is required.
How to Get an Honest Fence Quote
A good quote should be easy to compare. When you talk to any fence company, ask:
- What cedar grade do you use, and is Grade 1 included or an upcharge?
- Wood posts or steel posts, and what are the footings?
- Are the fasteners stainless steel?
- What warranty comes with the workmanship and the materials?
- Is old fence removal and haul-away included?
Still deciding on a material? Our guide to choosing the right fencing material breaks down the trade-offs. If a bid cannot answer the questions above clearly, the low price is hiding something.
We put all of it in writing, and we offer financing, including zero-down options, so a quality fence fits more budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest fence to install?
Chain link is usually the most budget-friendly fence, followed by pressure-treated wood. Cedar and ornamental steel cost more up front but last longer and add more curb appeal.
How much does a fence cost for an average Portland yard?
For an average yard of about 150 to 200 linear feet, most homeowners land in the built-to-last range once you account for height and gates. A basic job runs less, and a custom design runs more.
Does a new fence add value to my home?
A well-built fence adds privacy, security, and curb appeal, all of which help resale, especially for families and pet owners. A sagging, gray builder-grade fence does the opposite, which is why build quality matters as much as the fence itself.
How long does a cedar fence last in Portland?
A cedar fence built with Grade 1 cedar and steel posts commonly lasts 20 years or more here, even in our wet climate. Cheaper builder-grade cedar on wood posts often starts failing in 5 to 10 years. Staining every few years extends the life either way.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We offer flexible financing, including zero-down and 12-months-no-interest options, so you can get the fence you want without paying the full cost up front.
Sources
Gorilla Works Exteriors proudly serves Portland, Gresham, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Happy Valley, Milwaukie, Troutdale, Vancouver WA, and Camas WA. Call (971) 343-4964 or request fence installation.
