Fencing comparison
Wood vs Vinyl Fence: Cost Comparison
Wood and vinyl are the two most popular privacy fence materials. Wood is cheaper to install; vinyl costs more but needs no painting. Here is how they compare in 2026.
Vinyl fence
$25 to $60 per linear ft
Wood fence
$18 to $45 per linear ft
| Feature | Vinyl fence | Wood fence |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per ft | $25 to $60 | $18 to $45 |
| Typical 150 ft run | $3,750 to $9,000 | $2,700 to $6,750 |
| Lifespan | 20 to 30 years | 15 to 20 years |
| Maintenance | Rinse only | Stain or paint regularly |
| Look | Clean, uniform | Natural wood |
| Repairs | Replace panels | Easy and cheap |
Vinyl fence
- No painting or staining ever
- Long lifespan
- Resists rot and insects
- Easy to clean
- Higher upfront cost
- Fewer style options
- Damaged panels must be replaced
Wood fence
- Lower upfront cost
- Natural look
- Easy and cheap to repair
- Many styles
- Needs staining or painting
- Can rot, warp, or attract insects
- Shorter lifespan
The verdict
Choose wood for the lowest upfront cost and a natural look, if you will keep up with staining. Choose vinyl if you want a fence that needs no painting and lasts longer, and you are willing to pay more now to skip the maintenance.
Frequently asked questions
Is a vinyl fence worth the extra cost over wood?
Vinyl costs more upfront but never needs painting or staining and resists rot and insects. Over 15 to 20 years the saved maintenance often makes vinyl the better value, though wood wins on upfront price.
How long does a wood fence last vs vinyl?
A wood privacy fence lasts about 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance, while vinyl lasts 20 to 30 years with almost none. Climate and upkeep affect both.