The cost to paint a fence typically ranges from $1.60 to $3.20 per square foot, including both materials and labor for a painter. The average price homeowners pay is about $2.40 per square foot.
For a typical backyard fence with a surface area of 600 square feet, the total painting cost can range from $960 to $1,920 when using mid-range materials and standard labor rates. High-end finishes, specialty paints, or additional prep work can push the cost higher. The exact price will depend on the fence material, its condition, and local labor rates.
These cost estimates are based on a nationwide analysis of fence painting services across major metropolitan areas and smaller towns in the U.S. Length, height, type of paint, material, and style affect the cost of painting a fence. You’ll need to consider each factor to get the most accurate estimate possible.
Cost by Location
This cost guide covers national costs, but various local factors could affect your final cost. For example, coastal areas might require more expensive paint to protect your fence from moisture and salinity. Rural areas also tend to have lower prices than metropolitan areas due to the cost of living.
The table below offers a snapshot of the costs of painting a fence across the country:
| City | Cost per Square Foot (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pittsburgh, PA | $1.70 – $3.40 |
| Newark, NJ | $1.95 – $3.95 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Lewisville, NC | $1.40 – $2.80 |
| Nashville, TN | $1.50 – $2.95 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Wichita, KS | $1.45 – $2.90 |
| West Fargo, ND | $1.60 – $3.20 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Boise, ID | $1.60 – $3.20 |
| Seattle, WA | $2.05 – $4.10 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Woodlands, TX | $1.45 – $2.90 |
| San Diego, CA | $1.80 – $3.70 |
Cost by Size
To give an estimate, fence contractors need to know the length and height of your fence. The cost ranges between $1.60 and $3.20 per square foot for material and labor, with an average price of $2.40 per square foot.
To calculate your total cost, you’d need to multiply your fence’s length by its height to get its surface area. For example, a 4-foot fence that is 150 feet long would have a surface area of 600 square feet. Double the cost if you need to paint both sides of the fence. Here’s how much painting would cost based on surface area:
| Fence Area in Square Feet | Cost Range for One Side | Cost Range for Two Sides |
| 600 | $960 – $1,920 | $1,920 – $3,840 |
| 750 | $1,200 – $2,400 | $2,400 – $4,800 |
| 900 | $1,440 – $2,880 | $2,880 – $5,760 |
Make sure to ask the painters whether their rate applies to both sides or each side separately. Your fence will be best protected from the elements with both sides painted, but it may not matter to you for aesthetic purposes.
If you have a shared fence, you may need to ask your neighbor’s permission to access the opposite side. Consider asking them to split the cost so you can both enjoy the benefits and aesthetic appeal boost.
Cost by Fence Material
Your fence material will affect how much you pay for painting. Not only do certain materials need specialized paints, but they also need specialized prep. Here are the costs per linear foot of some common fencing materials:
| Fence Material | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
| Wood | $2.15 – $6.65 |
| Vinyl | $3.25 – $10 |
| Aluminum | $4.30 – $10 |
| Wrought iron | $5 – $11.30 |
| Steel | $5.25 – $9.25 |
Cost by Fence Style
Fence design can significantly impact painting costs. The surface area increases the amount of paint needed, and the complexity increases the time to paint. For example, a shadowbox fence costs more than a privacy fence because the painter must carefully paint between the boards. Here’s the average cost of some common fence styles:
| Fence Style | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
| Picket fence | $2.25 – $4.65 |
| Privacy fence | $3 – $10.65 |
| Chain-link fence | $4 – $7 |
| Pipe fence | $4 – $10 |
| Shadowbox fence | $4 – $14 |
Cost by Type of Paint
The average cost per gallon of paint ranges from $27.5 to $78.5, but not all fence paints are the same. You can choose from different bases or finishes to best suit your project. If you’ve previously painted or stained your fence, it’s best to stick with the same product to make preparations easier.
Fence paints are either water-based, oil-based, or acrylic-based. You can use water-based and oil-based paints on most fences. However, many states banned oil-based paints because of pollution and dangerous health effects. You’ll need to use acrylic-based paint if you have a vinyl fence. Here are the average costs per gallon for each type of paint:
| Paint Type | Average Cost Per Gallon (Materials Only) |
| Acrylic-based | $27.5 – $71.5 |
| Oil-based | $27.5 – $78.5 |
| Water-based | $30.5 – $50 |
Not sure how many gallons of paint you’ll need? One gallon covers around 30 linear feet, or 200 square feet.
Labor Costs
Most of what you’ll pay for is labor costs. You’ll pay between $32 to $80 per hour for the worker’s time and effort. Most pros will include labor costs in their linear and square-foot estimate, but they may give you an hourly rate (including materials) instead.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Can you paint a fence yourself? Sure. You can cut project costs significantly with research, basic supplies, and several weekends. If you’re new to DIY, expect to spend around $280 if you rent a paint sprayer or $630 if you purchase one.
However, you’ll need to sacrifice a fair amount of time to get things done. Most homeowners can only spare their weekends, meaning the project could take up to a month. You’ll also need to research the best paints and primers for your specific fence, which may be overwhelming if you’re new to DIY.
A painting crew can get the job done quicker and recommend the best primers and paints. They’re also less likely to miss crucial preparation steps.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
While you could calculate your cost based on size alone, you’ll get a more accurate estimate if you consider the type of paint, primer, fencing material, style, and prep work needed. The labor costs also will sway pricing.
Type of Primer
Before you choose your paint, you should check whether it contains primer. It preps the surface of your fence so the paint will adhere properly and look its best.
Primers cost an average of $20 to $57 per gallon.
Primers come in a few varieties:
- Latex or water-based
- Shellac-based
- Oil-based
- Adhesive-based
Type of Finish
Paint prices also vary by the finish. You’ll need to consider aesthetics and practicality when choosing paint finishes. Here are the most common types of finishes:
- Matte or flat
- Eggshell
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
- High-gloss
Matte and flat paints are the hardest to clean because of their rough texture. The more sheen, the easier it is to clean. However, glossy paints can be costly and chip more easily. Eggshell and satin paints are an excellent middle ground for cleaning, durability, and price.
You may also need special paints to deal with environmental factors. For example, homeowners living on the waterfront or in high-humidity areas should select moisture-resistant paint.
Painting Complexity
Most homeowners opt for simple paint jobs with a single color. But what if you want your fence to make a statement? You could paint the post caps a different color than the posts or alternate picket colors. Fences with multiple colors or designs will cost more.
If you want a mural on your fence, this will also cost you more. So you can paint most of your fence a solid color and have the artist decorate a small portion to draw attention to a particular area.
Prep Work
You can’t just slap paint on your fence and assume it will look good. Without preparation, the paint could look bumpy or come off altogether. You’ll need to remove dirt, mold, mildew, rust, and old paint to create a smooth, blank canvas.
What if your fence needs attention? Rust, mold, mildew, and old paint are harder to remove. Pressure washing a fence costs an average of $135 to $268. However, you can’t pressure wash paint off wooden fences because the pressure needed would damage the fence.
If your fence has paint on it from before 1978, it could contain lead. This is less likely with wooden fences or other materials with short lifespans, but iron and other long-lasting materials could still have traces of old paint. Let the painters know beforehand so they can take the proper safety precautions. It will likely cost more to remove lead paint than other paints.
Permits and HOA Requirements
Most cities don’t require permits unless you make structural changes to the fence. However, if you need them, the paperwork and inspection would potentially affect the costs. Check with the company you hire to see if you need permits and whether they’re included in the cost.
The only other rules you need to worry about are from your homeowner’s association (if you have one). HOAs may dictate your fence color. You could be fined and have to pay to have your fence repainted if you don’t follow their guidelines.
FAQ
Usually, yes. Paint protects fencing materials from the elements, drastically increasing their lifespan. However, materials like vinyl and composite don’t usually need paint, and wood might fare better with stain. Applying the wrong paint can also be a bad investment since it won’t last long or look as good.
Spraying is easier and faster than paint rollers or brushes, lowering labor costs. However, there’s more risk of spraying something else accidentally and using more paint. Brushes and rollers are also more accessible. You’ll need to rent or buy an airless sprayer if you plan to DIY.
A professional will weigh the pros and cons based on your specific fence type to choose the most effective tool.
Your fence will significantly benefit from a double coat. The color will look better, last longer, and protect your fence more effectively. Make sure your first coat is dry before applying the second. However, some paints are formulated only to need a single coat.
Give Your Fence a Fresh New Look
Painting your fence isn’t just about aesthetics. It provides a protective barrier against the elements, prevents wear and tear, and keeps your fence looking brand new for years. But if the thought of spending your weekend with a paint roller doesn’t excite you, leave it to the pros!
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled handymen and handywomen in seconds and leave the rest to us.
Read More:
— How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Fence?
— How to Stain a Fence
— Who is Responsible for Repairing a Fence on a Property Line?
— How Much Does Fence Repair Cost?
Main Photo Credit: U. J. Alexander / Adobe Stock Free / License
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