Composite Deck costs $37.99 to $80.73 per sq ft in Raleigh in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $15,197 – $32,294 installed, typically near $23,746. That is about 2% above the North Carolina average.
Raleigh composite deck calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why Raleigh runs above the North Carolina average
Construction wages in Raleigh average $27.66 per hour against $26.42 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the North Carolina norm here.
Labor is about 42% 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.
Composite Deck cost by project size in Raleigh
| Project size | Raleigh range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $3,799 – $8,073 | $5,936 |
| 200 sq ft | $7,599 – $16,147 | $11,873 |
| 300 sq ft | $11,398 – $24,220 | $17,809 |
| 400 sq ft | $15,197 – $32,294 | $23,746 |
| 600 sq ft | $22,796 – $48,441 | $35,618 |
| 800 sq ft | $30,394 – $64,588 | $47,491 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $37,993 – $80,735 | $59,364 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $56,989 – $121,102 | $89,046 |
Where the money goes
For a 400 sq ft project in Raleigh at roughly $23,746, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 42% | $9,973 |
| Materials | 44% | $10,448 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $1,900 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $1,425 |
Raleigh compared with other North Carolina markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $37.92 – $80.58 | 0% |
| Greensboro | $37.16 – $78.96 | −2% |
| Winston | $36.71 – $78.00 | −3% |
| Wilmington | $37.10 – $78.84 | −2% |
| North Carolina average | $37.33 – $79.32 | −2% |
Ground conditions and code in Raleigh
Permits in Raleigh
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $400 in North Carolina. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Raleigh building department before work begins.
Hiring in Raleigh
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 North Carolina.
Frequently asked questions
How much does composite deck cost in Raleigh?
In 2026, composite deck costs $37.99 to $80.73 per sq ft in Raleigh. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $15,197 and $32,294.
Is Raleigh more expensive than the rest of North Carolina?
Yes. Raleigh runs about 2% above the North Carolina average, because local construction wages ($27.66/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $26.42/hr.
Do I need a permit in Raleigh?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $400 in North Carolina and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Raleigh?
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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