Wood vs. Vinyl Fence Cost: Upfront and Over 20 Years
Vinyl usually costs 40–60% more to install than pressure-treated wood, but needs far less upkeep. Which is cheaper depends on how long you'll stay.
Compare wood and vinyl prices →
Upfront cost (150 ft, 6 ft privacy, 1 gate)
| Pressure-treated wood | Vinyl | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed | ~$3,700–$6,500 | ~$5,300–$9,100 |
| Typical lifespan | 15–20 years | 20–30+ years |
| Maintenance | Stain/seal every 2–3 years | Occasional washing |
Maintenance changes the math
Staining 150 ft of fence costs roughly $400–$900 professionally every few years. Over 20 years that's $2,500–$6,000, which can close most of the gap with vinyl.
When wood still wins
- You plan to move within 5–8 years.
- You want a natural look or plan to repair sections yourself.
- Your lot is steep — wood follows slopes more easily than rigid vinyl panels.
All figures are estimates based on baseline U.S. assumptions, not contractor quotes.