Wood Deck costs $30.00 to $60.00 per sq ft in Arlington in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $12,000 – $24,000 installed, typically near $18,000. That is about 20% above the Virginia state average.
Arlington wood deck cost calculator
Planning estimate only. State pricing applies a construction wage index to the labor share; materials are held at national prices. Get three written quotes before committing.
Why Arlington costs more than the rest of Virginia
Arlington carries roughly a 20% premium over the Virginia statewide figure. Three things drive that gap. Metro wages run above the state average, and labor is about 52% of this bill. Permitting and inspection are slower and more expensive inside city limits. And site access is tighter, which means smaller equipment, more hand work, and sometimes street permits for deliveries.
Statewide, Virginia averages $25.00 to $50.00 per sq ft, against $30.00 to $60.00 inside Arlington. Suburbs on the metro fringe usually fall between the two.
Wood Deck cost by project size in Arlington
| Project size | Arlington range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 (100 sq ft) | $3,000 – $6,000 | $4,500 |
| 12×12 (144 sq ft) | $4,320 – $8,640 | $6,480 |
| 12×16 (192 sq ft) | $5,760 – $11,520 | $8,640 |
| 12×20 (240 sq ft) | $7,200 – $14,400 | $10,800 |
| 16×20 (320 sq ft) | $9,600 – $19,200 | $14,400 |
| 20×20 (400 sq ft) | $12,000 – $24,000 | $18,000 |
Arlington compared with other Virginia markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Arlington |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $26.25 – $52.50 | -12% |
| Richmond | $26.50 – $53.00 | -12% |
| Virginia average | $25.00 – $50.00 | −20% |
Ground conditions and code in Arlington
Permits in Arlington
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $450 in Virginia, and metro jurisdictions like Arlington usually sit at the upper end of that range with longer review times. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so add it separately. Confirm scope with the Arlington building department before work begins.
Hiring in Arlington
Get three written, itemised quotes from licensed and insured contractors, and make sure each specifies the same dimensions and the same grade of material. In a metro market, the cheapest bid often reflects a thinner specification or a crew travelling in from outside the area rather than a genuine saving. Ask for local references and check that the licence is current in Virginia.
Frequently asked questions
How much does wood deck cost in Arlington?
In 2026, wood deck costs $30.00 to $60.00 per sq ft in Arlington. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $12,000 and $24,000.
Is Arlington more expensive than the rest of Virginia?
Yes. Arlington runs about 20% above the Virginia statewide average, driven by metro wage levels, permitting, and tighter site access.
Do I need a permit in Arlington?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $450 and allow extra time for review, since metro jurisdictions are typically slower than rural ones.
How do I compare quotes in Arlington?
Insist on three written, itemised quotes covering identical dimensions, materials, and scope of preparation. A bid far below the others usually signals a reduced specification rather than better value.
Nearby markets
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