The cost to install a pool fence ranges from $17 to $34 per linear foot of fencing, including materials and the cost of labor.
Most pools in the U.S. need 100 to 300 linear feet of fencing. So, the total cost to install a pool fence for most homeowners would be around $1,700 to $5,100 using budget-friendly materials such as mesh or chain link and about $3,400 to $10,200 using premium materials like wrought iron or tempered glass.
This pricing guide is based on an average of pool fencing costs nationwide, covering both large cities and rural areas. Your actual costs will depend on the material, size of the fence, and where you live.
Cost by Location
The cost of living in your region can affect your total project price. Depending on where you live, you may pay more or less for material and labor.
Moreover, increased demand for pool fencing in your area will drive up prices and wait times. Other cost factors include proximity to suppliers, taxes, and transportation costs. Homeowners in rural areas tend to pay less than those in urban areas.
The table below shows the average cost to install a pool fence in different U.S. cities. The low ends of the ranges are based on mesh or chain-link fencing, and the high ends are based on wrought iron or tempered glass.
| City | Cost per Linear Foot (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $17 – $34 |
| New York, NY | $20 – $42 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $16 – $30 |
| Orlando, FL | $16 – $31 |
| Atlanta, GA | $16 – $31 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $18 – $35 |
| Chicago, IL | $18 – $38 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $17 – $33 |
| Seattle, WA | $19 – $39 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Houston, TX | $16 – $31 |
| Roswell, NM | $16 – $31 |
| San Diego, CA | $18 – $36 |
If your city isn’t listed, estimate your project cost based on your region and city size.
Cost by Fence Size
Most fencing companies will charge by linear foot for pool fencing. The prices range from $17 to $34 per linear foot, with an average cost of $25.50 per linear foot. Here’s how much it would cost on average for different fence lengths:
| Pool Fence Length in Linear Feet | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| 50 | $1,275 |
| 100 | $2,550 |
| 150 | $3,825 |
| 200 | $5,100 |
| 300 | $7,650 |
Fencing should be at least 2 feet from the pool’s edge, but many homeowners leave more space to walk and sit near the pool. Measure a rectangular perimeter around your pool, or follow its shape if you’re willing to pay more. You can shorten the amount of fencing needed by connecting it to existing structures, such as the wall of your garage.
Most pool fences come in two standard heights: 4 feet and 5 feet. The price difference between the two is about 20%. You’ll need to let the fencing company know if you want something different. A custom fence height usually increases material costs by about 50%.
Cost by Fence Material
The material you choose is one of the most important factors in the cost of your pool fence project. The most common materials are mesh and black chain link, which are both affordable and versatile.
If you’re looking for the least expensive option, black chain link tends to be the most budget-friendly. On the other hand, tempered glass is the most expensive choice. It offers a modern, clear view but at a premium price.
See the table below for the average per-linear foot prices of the most common fencing materials.
| Fence Material | Cost per Linear Foot (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Mesh | $8 – $15 |
| Black Chain Link | $6 – $16 |
| Galvanized Steel | $9 – $18 |
| Wood | $12 – $33 |
| Vinyl | $19 – $36 |
| Plexiglass | $23 – $35 |
| Aluminum | $23 – $40 |
| Wrought Iron | $26 – $49 |
| Tempered Glass | $99 – $503 |
Removable Pool Fence Costs
Removable pool fences are cheaper than permanent fences. These fences are typically made of mesh and can be taken down and put back as needed. They are often used by homeowners who need a temporary barrier or want flexibility in their pool area.
However, removable pool fences are less secure, especially on slopes or steps. They require regular inspections for safety and are not ideal for homes with children or pets.
Here are the costs for the most common removable pool fence sizes and their costs:
| Pool Size | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| 4 feet x 12 feet | $125 |
| 4 feet x 24 feet | $133 |
| 5 feet x 10 feet | $130 |
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
A cheap DIY pool fencing kit can cost around $130. This price may go up or down depending on the size of your pool. Assuming that you don’t have any necessary tools, the total cost for tools would be around $171, plus the fencing kit.
If you already have tools such as a drill and guide, you’ll need to pay only for the pool fence kit. We calculated approximate pricing info for each tool based on average prices from Amazon, Lowe’s, and Home Depot.
However, if there are any rules and regulations surrounding pool fencing in your area, you should hire a pro or get a professional inspection of your installation. Improperly installed fencing can have life-threatening consequences at worst and, at best, could land you a fine. It also could damage your pool deck, which would pile on additional repair costs and headaches.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Cost to Install a Gate and an Alarm
Local laws often require you to install a self-latching or closing gate that minimizes the risk of a small child accidentally wandering into the pool area. Self-closing gates cost between $200 and $900, with an average price of $550.
No good contractor will leave you without a gate, so the cost should be included in their full quote. However, you need to let the contractor know if you want a particular kind of gate or multiple gates so you get an accurate estimate.
Install an alarm that alerts you when someone is getting into your pool without permission. The cost of a pool alarm varies between $40 to $220.
Cost to Paint a Pool Fence
To make your fence (especially if it’s a wood fence) last longer or improve its aesthetic appeal, consider painting it. The average cost to paint or stain a fence is between $5 to $15 per linear foot.
Tip: If you want to save money and time, go with fences that come with protective coatings or colors. For example, vinyl and composite fences don’t need paint because they’re already colorful and water-resistant.
Cost to Remove Old Fence
If you’re replacing an existing fence, you’ll need to account for the removal cost. On average, the cost to remove an old fence is between $5 to $10 per linear foot.
Cost to Remove Obstacles Around the Pool
Before installing a pool fence, it might be necessary to remove any obstacles around the area. Below are common obstacles and their removal costs:
- Bush removal: $40 – $150 per bush
- Tree removal: $10 – $14 per foot
- Hedge trimming:
- Hedges below 6 feet: $2.5 – $5 per foot
- Hedges above 6 feet: $4 – $6 per foot
- Bush trimming: $6 – $16 per bush
If you have any of the above obstacles around your pool, hire a local landscaping professional to remove them.
Tell the fence contractor about your yard’s terrain so they can select the best fence for your sloped yard. The additional labor cost for elevation changes is about 50% of the project costs.
Cost of Permits for Fencing
There’s nothing worse than building a fence only to be fined or have to tear it down because something’s wrong. To avoid that, look up your local building codes and homeowner association rules ahead of time. Fence companies often will help or do it for you, so ask.
Fence building permits cost around $75, which includes the paperwork and inspection.
Brands of Pool Fence
The cost to install a pool fence can vary slightly depending on the brand you choose. Different brands offer fences in a variety of materials, styles, and safety features, which can impact the price and durability of your fence.
When selecting a brand, consider your budget, aesthetic preferences, and safety needs to find the best fit for your pool area. Here are some of the most common brands of pool fence:
- Protect-a-Child
- Life Saver
- Katchakid
- All-Safe
- Guardian
DIY or Hire: Put a Fence Around Your Pool for Safety
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