Chain Link Fence costs $13.63 to $34.07 per linear ft in Chicago in 2026. For a 150-foot run, expect $2,044 – $5,110 installed, typically near $3,577. That is about 2% above the Illinois average.
Chicago chain link fence calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why Chicago runs above the Illinois average
Construction wages in Chicago average $40.87 per hour against $39.27 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the Illinois norm here.
Labor is about 45% 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.
Chain Link Fence cost by project size in Chicago
| Project size | Chicago range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 50 ft | $681 – $1,703 | $1,192 |
| 100 ft | $1,363 – $3,407 | $2,385 |
| 150 ft | $2,044 – $5,110 | $3,577 |
| 200 ft | $2,725 – $6,813 | $4,769 |
| 250 ft | $3,407 – $8,517 | $5,962 |
| 300 ft | $4,088 – $10,220 | $7,154 |
| 400 ft | $5,451 – $13,627 | $9,539 |
| 500 ft | $6,813 – $17,033 | $11,923 |
Where the money goes
For a 150-foot run in Chicago at roughly $3,577, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 45% | $1,610 |
| Materials | 41% | $1,467 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $286 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $215 |
Chicago compared with other Illinois markets
| Area | Cost per linear ft | vs Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Peoria | $12.92 – $32.30 | −5% |
| Rockford | $13.01 – $32.53 | −5% |
| Champaign | $12.98 – $32.45 | −5% |
| Springfield | $12.86 – $32.16 | −6% |
| Illinois average | $13.35 – $33.38 | −2% |
Ground conditions and code in Chicago
Permits in Chicago
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $600 in Illinois. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Chicago building department before work begins.
Hiring in Chicago
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 Illinois.
Frequently asked questions
How much does chain link fence cost in Chicago?
In 2026, chain link fence costs $13.63 to $34.07 per linear ft in Chicago. For a 150-foot run, the installed total typically lands between $2,044 and $5,110.
Is Chicago more expensive than the rest of Illinois?
Yes. Chicago runs about 2% above the Illinois average, because local construction wages ($40.87/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $39.27/hr.
Do I need a permit in Chicago?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $600 in Illinois and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Chicago?
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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