Chain-Link Fence Cost in Washington D.C. [2025 Data]

Installing a chain-link fence in Washington, D.C., costs an average of $2,075, but it can range from $1,077 to $3,073. The main factors that determine the cost of a chain-link fence are the length and height of the fence, with fence type, gauge, and material all affecting the total cost as well. Let’s look at these factors and more to see how much you can expect to pay for a chain-link fence.

Chain-Link Fence Cost Factors 

The cost to install a chain-link fence in Washington, D.C., is based on the fence’s length and height, type of fence, fence gauge, land prep costs, and more. We break down these and other factors that affect the cost of a chain-link fence so you can budget for this project.

Length and Height

Chain-link fence installation costs $7 to $34 per linear foot, which includes materials and labor, with an average price range of $9 to $18 per linear foot. Contractors often issue estimates with a per-foot calculation, and costs increase as the fence height rises. The median lot size for a detached single-family home in Washington, D.C., is around 5,500 square feet, and the length of your fence will depend on your property’s dimensions and how much of your lot you’re fencing in. 

Here’s what you might pay based on chain-link fence height:

Type of Chain-Link Fence

The most affordable types of chain-link fences (galvanized and wood post) start at $5 per linear foot. On the other hand, the most expensive type (wrought iron) can reach prices up to $100 per linear foot.

Here’s how the type of chain link fence affects the cost:

Diamond Size

“Diamond size” refers to how large the opening is between each link. Smaller mesh decreases visibility and requires more materials. The most common residential size is 2” x 2” and costs $2.50 to $7 per linear foot. Decreasing the diamond hole to 1” x 1” costs $7 to $13 per linear foot.

Gauge (Thickness)

The thickness of the chain that creates the links, otherwise called its gauge, reflects the project cost as it determines the cost of materials. Basically, the higher the gauge number, the thinner the metal strands, translating to a lower cost of materials.

Thicker strands last longer, provide more security, and are generally more resistant to rust and inclement weather.

Posts

Your fence needs posts to help it remain sturdy and to provide a bit of unique aesthetic flair. Putting in some posts costs around $2.50 per linear foot, or $25 per post. Often, contractors wrap this cost into the overall estimate, as you can’t have a fence without something to hold it together.

Land Clearing and Prep

If your property isn’t fence-ready, it can cost from $215 to $2,400 per half-acre for land clearing and prep. Removing trees and large rocks will cost more, as will major regrading to achieve a level surface. Compare the costs to see if it’s more cost-effective to remove obstacles or to adjust your fence to work around them.

Add-Ons

Expect a higher project cost if you’re installing privacy features for your chain-link fence, adding powder or vinyl coating to make a black chain-link fence, or installing gates. These extras can elevate a basic chain-link fence to a more upscale appearance and improved usability. 

Fence Installation Pro Costs

Hiring a fencing pro in Washington, D.C., is your best bet to ensure your chain-link fence is installed properly and meets all local codes and regulations. Installing a fence requires some specialized tools and equipment—the pros already have these on hand and can install your fence efficiently and correctly.

Labor

Labor accounts for around 50% of the total cost to install a chain-link fence, or around $1,050, on average. Professional fence installers charge $21.50 to $43 per hour, depending on experience, and this type of job takes anywhere from 24 to 72 hours to complete. Most contractors just lump their labor into the price as a single total, though, so they technically don’t charge by the hour. You may be able to save a little on installation costs if you install a fence in winter when the fencing pros have more room in their schedules.

Permits

You’ll need a permit to install a fence in Washington, D.C. Permit fees vary, but most fence permits will cost between $50 and $135 plus applicable inspection fees. The permit approval process can take up to 90 days, depending on the specifics of your fence, so be sure to apply for a permit early so as not to delay installation.

Does a Chain-Link Fence Increase Home Value?

While a chain-link fence will add less value to your home than a wood, vinyl, or metal picket fence, it will offer a return on investment (ROI) of around 30%. You’ll see a higher ROI if you install privacy features and ensure your fence is well-maintained—spending a little bit on chain-link fence repair costs can pay off when it comes time to sell your home. A fenced-in yard can be a major selling point for parents and pet owners, so keeping your fence in good shape can be an advantage when your house goes on the market.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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