Planning a backyard upgrade? You’re probably wondering what that beautiful wood fence is going to cost you. Let’s be honest—most Boise homeowners want the bottom line before they start dreaming about their perfect privacy fence. Expert wood fence installation can transform your property, but understanding the investment helps you make smart decisions.
Here’s the real scoop on what wood fence installation costs in Boise this year, plus everything that affects your final bill.
What Boise Homeowners Actually Pay in 2025
Wood fence installation in Boise typically runs between $14 and $27 per linear foot. For most residential projects, you’re looking at total costs ranging from $2,100 to $5,400, depending on your fence length and style choices.
The sweet spot for average Boise projects? Around $15.66 per linear foot for a standard 4-foot fence. But here’s where it gets interesting—6-foot privacy fences can jump to $38-$42 per linear foot in the greater Boise area. That’s a significant difference, and height isn’t the only factor driving costs up.
Most homeowners installing 150 linear feet of fencing (pretty typical for a backyard) can expect to invest between $2,100 and $4,050. Small projects might start around $800, while larger or custom installations can easily reach $7,000 or more.
The Real Cost Drivers (And Why Quotes Vary So Much)
Wood Type Makes a Huge Difference
Cedar remains the most popular choice in Boise, running $2-$3 per linear foot for materials. Pine costs less at $1-$5 per foot, but cedar handles Idaho’s weather swings better. Western red cedar jumps to $6-$8 per foot, while exotic woods can hit $8-$15 per linear foot.
Height and Style Impact Your Budget
Privacy fences cost significantly more than picket styles—not just because of height, but because of the additional materials needed. Privacy fencing typically runs $27-$60 per linear foot, while simple picket fences start around $10 per foot.
Gates Double Your Per-Foot Cost
Planning access points? Gates cost roughly twice as much as equivalent fence sections. A single gate can add $200-$800 to your project, depending on size and hardware quality.
Site Conditions Can Surprise You
Rocky soil, slopes, or tree removal can bump up labor costs significantly. Boise’s varied terrain means some properties require extra prep work that affects the final bill.
How Boise Compares to Other Fence Materials
Wood fencing offers solid value compared to alternatives. Chain link runs about $13.13 per linear foot, but lacks privacy and curb appeal. Vinyl fencing costs $20.20 per linear foot—more upfront but less maintenance. Aluminum and wrought iron both hit $25.25 per linear foot, putting them in premium territory.
Wood’s advantage? Customization options and natural beauty that complement Boise’s landscape. Plus, you can stain or paint wood to match your home’s exterior.
Real Boise Project Examples
A 100-foot, basic 4-foot pine fence typically costs $1,400-$1,700. Step up to 150 feet of 6-foot cedar privacy fencing with one gate, and you’re looking at $3,000-$4,500. Want custom decorative cedar with multiple gates and professional staining? Budget $5,000-$7,000 for 200 linear feet.
These ranges reflect actual Boise pricing, not national averages that might not apply to our local market conditions.
Getting Accurate Quotes Without Surprises
Smart homeowners measure their property lines before calling contractors. Knowing your linear footage helps you evaluate quotes more effectively. Fence builders like Equinox Fence can provide detailed estimates that break down materials, labor, and any site-specific considerations.
Ask potential contractors about:
- Permit handling (Boise requires permits for most fence installations)
- Post materials (steel posts last longer than wood)
- Site prep requirements
- Timeline and cleanup inclusion
- Warranty coverage
Never accept quotes from contractors who haven’t visited your property. Terrain, soil conditions, and access all affect installation complexity and costs.
Smart Ways to Control Costs
Choose standard fence heights and styles to keep expenses manageable. Six-foot privacy fences cost more than four-foot versions, but the height difference might not justify the price jump for your needs.
Consider installation timing—some contractors offer off-season discounts during slower periods. However, don’t sacrifice quality for minor savings.
Maintain your investment properly. Regular staining or sealing extends wood fence life significantly, reducing long-term replacement costs. A well-maintained cedar fence can last 15-20 years in Boise’s climate.
Making the Investment Decision
Wood fence installation represents a significant home improvement investment, but it also adds property value and privacy. Understanding Boise’s pricing landscape helps you budget appropriately and choose contractors who offer fair value.
Quality installation matters more than rock-bottom pricing. Proper post setting, appropriate hardware, and attention to local building codes ensure your fence withstands Idaho’s weather extremes.
Ready to transform your Boise backyard? Get detailed quotes from local professionals who understand our unique climate challenges and can recommend the best wood types for long-lasting results. Your perfect fence is closer than you think—and now you know what it should cost.
