Composite Deck costs $46.55 to $98.91 per sq ft in San Francisco in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $18,619 – $39,565 installed, typically near $29,092. That is about 7% above the California average.
San Francisco composite deck calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why San Francisco runs above the California average
Construction wages in San Francisco average $43.66 per hour against $37.64 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the California 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 San Francisco
| Project size | San Francisco range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $4,655 – $9,891 | $7,273 |
| 200 sq ft | $9,309 – $19,782 | $14,546 |
| 300 sq ft | $13,964 – $29,673 | $21,819 |
| 400 sq ft | $18,619 – $39,565 | $29,092 |
| 600 sq ft | $27,928 – $59,347 | $43,637 |
| 800 sq ft | $37,237 – $79,129 | $58,183 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $46,547 – $98,912 | $72,729 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $69,820 – $148,367 | $109,094 |
Where the money goes
For a 400 sq ft project in San Francisco at roughly $29,092, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 42% | $12,218 |
| Materials | 44% | $12,800 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $2,327 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $1,745 |
San Francisco compared with other California markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $43.02 – $91.43 | −8% |
| Riverside | $41.74 – $88.69 | −10% |
| San Diego | $42.74 – $90.83 | −8% |
| Sacramento | $42.68 – $90.70 | −8% |
| California average | $43.33 – $92.07 | −7% |
Ground conditions and code in San Francisco
Permits in San Francisco
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $900 in California. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the San Francisco building department before work begins.
Hiring in San Francisco
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 California.
Frequently asked questions
How much does composite deck cost in San Francisco?
In 2026, composite deck costs $46.55 to $98.91 per sq ft in San Francisco. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $18,619 and $39,565.
Is San Francisco more expensive than the rest of California?
Yes. San Francisco runs about 7% above the California average, because local construction wages ($43.66/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $37.64/hr.
Do I need a permit in San Francisco?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $900 in California and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in San Francisco?
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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