Wood Fence costs $18.02 to $45.05 per linear ft in Des Moines in 2026. For a 150-foot run, expect $2,703 – $6,758 installed, typically near $4,730. That is about 3% above the Iowa average.
Des Moines wood fence calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why Des Moines runs above the Iowa average
Construction wages in Des Moines average $31.49 per hour against $29.84 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the Iowa norm here.
Labor is about 50% of the installed cost on this type of work, and it is the part that actually moves between markets. Materials are priced by national manufacturers and barely shift, which is why the gap between metros is narrower than wage differences alone suggest.
Wood Fence cost by project size in Des Moines
| Project size | Des Moines range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 50 ft | $901 – $2,253 | $1,577 |
| 100 ft | $1,802 – $4,505 | $3,154 |
| 150 ft | $2,703 – $6,758 | $4,730 |
| 200 ft | $3,604 – $9,010 | $6,307 |
| 250 ft | $4,505 – $11,263 | $7,884 |
| 300 ft | $5,406 – $13,515 | $9,461 |
| 400 ft | $7,208 – $18,020 | $12,614 |
| 500 ft | $9,010 – $22,525 | $15,768 |
Where the money goes
For a 150-foot run in Des Moines at roughly $4,730, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 50% | $2,365 |
| Materials | 36% | $1,703 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $378 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $284 |
Des Moines compared with other Iowa markets
| Area | Cost per linear ft | vs Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Davenport | $18.47 – $46.18 | +3% |
| Cedar Rapids | $17.67 – $44.17 | −2% |
| Waterloo | $17.88 – $44.71 | −1% |
| Sioux City | $17.30 – $43.26 | −4% |
| Iowa average | $17.55 – $43.88 | −3% |
Ground conditions and code in Des Moines
Permits in Des Moines
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $300 in Iowa. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Des Moines building department before work begins.
Hiring in Des Moines
Get three written, itemised quotes from licensed and insured contractors, each specifying the same scope and grade of material. Ask for local references and check the licence is current in Iowa.
Frequently asked questions
How much does wood fence cost in Des Moines?
In 2026, wood fence costs $18.02 to $45.05 per linear ft in Des Moines. For a 150-foot run, the installed total typically lands between $2,703 and $6,758.
Is Des Moines more expensive than the rest of Iowa?
Yes. Des Moines runs about 3% above the Iowa average, because local construction wages ($31.49/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $29.84/hr.
Do I need a permit in Des Moines?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $300 in Iowa and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Des Moines?
Get three written, itemised quotes covering identical scope and materials. A bid far below the others usually signals a reduced specification rather than better value.
Nearby markets
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