Whether you're looking to enclose a backyard in McCutchanville, add privacy to a property in Newburgh, or replace a aging fence in Jacobsville, fencing is one of the most common exterior improvements Evansville homeowners undertake. But pricing can vary widely based on material, terrain, and lot size. Here's a detailed breakdown of what fencing costs in the Evansville area in 2026.
Average Fence Costs by Material in Evansville
Prices below are per linear foot, installed, and reflect current Evansville market rates for a standard 6-foot-tall residential fence on a typical residential lot.
- Chain link (4-foot): $12–$18 per linear foot
- Chain link (6-foot with privacy slats): $18–$25 per linear foot
- Wood privacy (cedar, 6-foot): $25–$38 per linear foot
- Wood privacy (pressure-treated pine, 6-foot): $18–$28 per linear foot
- Vinyl privacy (6-foot): $30–$45 per linear foot
- Aluminum ornamental (4–5 foot): $35–$55 per linear foot
- Composite (6-foot): $40–$60 per linear foot
What Affects Your Final Price
The per-foot prices above are a starting point. Several factors specific to Evansville properties can increase your total cost:
Terrain and Soil Conditions
Evansville's terrain varies significantly. Properties on flat lots in subdivisions near Newburgh are straightforward — posts go in clean soil at consistent depths. But homes near the river bluffs, in areas with rocky soil, or on sloped lots in McCutchanville may require additional labor for post installation. Expect a 15–25% upcharge for rocky soil or significant slopes.
Lot Size
A typical Evansville residential lot is about 60–80 feet wide by 120–150 feet deep. For a backyard-only fence on a 70-foot-wide lot, you're looking at roughly 200–250 linear feet. At mid-range pricing:
- Wood (cedar): $5,000–$9,500
- Vinyl: $6,000–$11,250
- Chain link (6-foot): $3,600–$6,250
Full perimeter fencing (including front yard, if allowed by local code) will roughly double these figures.
Permits and Codes
The City of Evansville requires a fence permit for most installations. The permit fee is typically $25–$50, and your contractor usually handles this. Key code requirements:
- Residential fences in backyards can be up to 6 feet tall
- Front yard fences are limited to 4 feet in most zones
- Fences cannot be placed directly on property lines without neighbor agreement in some subdivisions
- Corner lots have visibility restrictions — no fence above 3 feet within 20 feet of the intersection
If you live in Newburgh or another incorporated area in Warrick County, check their specific fence ordinances as they differ slightly from Evansville city code.
Gates and Accessories
Gates add to the cost. A standard 4-foot walk-through gate runs $150–$300 installed. A double-drive gate (10–12 feet wide for vehicle access) adds $400–$800 depending on material. Automatic gate openers, if desired, add $1,000–$2,500.
Removal of Existing Fence
If you're replacing an existing fence, removal and disposal typically adds $3–$6 per linear foot. Old posts that are set in concrete need to be pulled or cut below grade, which is labor-intensive.
Choosing the Right Material for Evansville
Consider our climate when selecting materials. Evansville's humidity and freeze-thaw cycles affect wood fences significantly — cedar lasts 15–20 years with proper maintenance, while pressure-treated pine may need replacement in 10–15 years. Vinyl and aluminum are essentially maintenance-free and handle our weather well. Composite fencing offers the look of wood with the durability of vinyl, though at a premium price.
Getting the Best Value
Get at least three quotes from licensed, insured Evansville fence contractors. Make sure each quote includes: linear footage, material brand and specifications, post depth and spacing, gate details, permit handling, and warranty. The cheapest quote isn't always the best — a fence that lasts 20 years versus one that needs replacement in 8 is a very different value proposition, even at a higher upfront cost.