How Much Does Cable Railing Cost? [2024 Data]

Normal range: $3,750 - $13,000

Cable railing costs $9,000 on average, but add-ons (like posts and railings) and the materials you choose for those will impact the price.

How we get this data
A deck with cable railing
Photo: Oleg Opryshko / Adobe Stock
Veronica Sparks
Written by Veronica Sparks
Contributing Writer
Updated April 2, 2024
A deck with cable railing
Photo: Oleg Opryshko / Adobe Stock

If you're considering adding new railing to your deck or staircase, you've probably thought about cable railing costs. This attractive railing system costs between $3,750 and $13,000 for an average 50-linear-foot rail. Costs can fluctuate depending on the additional materials you choose and if you have a larger deck that needs more railing. This type of railing system costs $75 to $285 per linear foot.

Cable railings are a sleek and modern choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing safety without obstructing views. Take a look at the factors that influence cable railing costs so that you can make an informed decision when you’re ready to hire a pro for your project.

See the price range to install cable railing:
How we get this data
Normal range for U.S.
$3,750 - $13,000
  • Average
  • $9,000
  • Low end
  • $3,000
  • high end
  • $15,000
LOWHIGH

Cost Factors for Cable Railings

Not all decks, balconies, and walkways are the same, so let's explore the key factors contributing to the overall cost of updating your deck railings to cables.

Size of Cable Railing System

The size of your cable railing system is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost. The larger the area you need to cover, the more materials you’ll need, meaning a more expensive project. This is especially true if you choose a deck railing idea featuring handrails on multiple sides of your deck or porch.

Deck Size (Square Feet)Length (Linear Feet)Average Cost
100 20 $3,000–$5,700
30035 $5,300–$10,000
50045 $6,800–$13,000

Post Type

The material and shape of the posts impact the total price. Squared stainless steel posts cost between $140 and $230, while rounded stainless steel posts range from $110 to $200 each.

Alternatively, aluminum posts are more affordable, ranging from $65 to $125 per post. Wooden, vinyl, and composite posts are the most affordable, but they can vary widely, with prices ranging from $20 to $120 each.

Post TypeCost per Post
Squared stainless steel$140–$230
Round stainless steel$110–$200
Aluminum$65–$125
Wood$20–$120
Vinyl or composite$25–$35

Top Rail Material

3 common top railing materials compared visually, including stainless steel and composite
Photo: Sergii / Adobe Stock, jStock / Adobe Stock, PC Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

If you opt for a top rail, it’s a similar story to the rail posts but with flipped pricing. Squared or rounded stainless steel handrails cost $20 per linear foot. Aluminum or wood handrails, on the other hand, cost between $30 and $60 per linear foot. Vinyl and composite handrails cost the least at $10 to $20 per linear foot.

Top Rail MaterialAverage Cost (per Linear Foot)
Stainless steel$20
Aluminum or wood$30–$60
Vinyl or composite$10–$20

Cable Material

The type of cable you select significantly impacts the overall cost. Galvanized carbon steel cables are budget-friendly at $0.35 to $0.45 per linear foot. Stainless steel wire is more durable and aesthetically pleasing but comes at a higher cost of around $0.50 to $1.70 per linear foot.

Number of Corners

Cable railings are relatively straightforward to budget for on straight runs. However, if your design includes multiple corners, the project will require more infill material, such as additional posts and cables. Each corner may increase the cost by 20% to 30%.

Labor and Installation

The labor cost for installing cable railings accounts for a large portion of the project’s cost. Labor costs depend on your location and the complexity of the project. On average, labor can cost an additional $20 and $50 per linear foot. Some contractors charge for the number of hours the project takes instead of charging by linear foot, in which case you should budget between $50 and $100 per hour.

Average Labor Cost by LengthAverage Labor Cost by Time
$20–$50 per linear foot$50–$100 per hour

Ongoing Expenses of Cable Railings

Close-up of rounded cable railing
Photo: Michal / Adobe Stock

While the initial installation cost is important, you also need to factor in the ongoing expenses of maintaining cable railings. Cable railings require regular cleaning to prevent corrosion and maintain their appearance.

If you have wooden posts and handrails, you need to budget for restaining, resealing, or repainting those parts of the deck to protect the wood from the elements. These maintenance costs can add up over time but are essential for the longevity of your railing system.

DIY Cable Railing Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Deciding whether to tackle cable railing installation yourself or hire a professional is a big decision. A DIY approach may seem cost-effective, but correctly installing cable railings can be challenging if you lack experience. Mistakes can compromise both safety and aesthetics.

A local deck builder will have the knowledge and experience to design and install your cable railing systems correctly, ensuring they meet safety codes and regulations. Professional installers can also accurately measure and tension the cables for a secure and visually appealing result.

Hiring a pro saves you time and hassle because they have the necessary tools and skills to complete the job efficiently. Many professional installers also offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind and protecting you against installation errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cable railings are not expensive to maintain. Routine cleaning to prevent corrosion is the primary maintenance requirement. If your railing system includes wooden components, you need to budget for occasional restaining, resealing, or repainting to protect the wood. While these ongoing costs are relatively low, they are essential for preserving the appearance and longevity of your cable railing system.

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Learn more about our contributor
Veronica Sparks
Written by Veronica Sparks
Contributing Writer
Veronica has been an avid DIYer, gardener, and hobby home designer for over a decade. Her tips and advice can be found on publications like 21Oak, HappySprout, and The Angle. She also recently launched her own homesteading blog centered on teaching people about sustainable living in suburban areas.
Veronica has been an avid DIYer, gardener, and hobby home designer for over a decade. Her tips and advice can be found on publications like 21Oak, HappySprout, and The Angle. She also recently launched her own homesteading blog centered on teaching people about sustainable living in suburban areas.
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