Wood Deck costs $31.34 to $62.68 per sq ft in Chicago in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $12,536 – $25,073 installed, typically near $18,804. That is about 18% above the Illinois state average.
Chicago 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 Chicago costs more than the rest of Illinois
Chicago carries roughly a 18% premium over the Illinois 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, Illinois averages $26.56 to $53.12 per sq ft, against $31.34 to $62.68 inside Chicago. Suburbs on the metro fringe usually fall between the two.
Wood Deck cost by project size in Chicago
| Project size | Chicago range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 (100 sq ft) | $3,134 – $6,268 | $4,701 |
| 12×12 (144 sq ft) | $4,513 – $9,026 | $6,770 |
| 12×16 (192 sq ft) | $6,017 – $12,035 | $9,026 |
| 12×20 (240 sq ft) | $7,522 – $15,044 | $11,283 |
| 16×20 (320 sq ft) | $10,029 – $20,058 | $15,044 |
| 20×20 (400 sq ft) | $12,536 – $25,073 | $18,804 |
Chicago compared with other Illinois markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Naperville | $29.75 – $59.49 | -5% |
| Springfield | $26.56 – $53.12 | -15% |
| Illinois average | $26.56 – $53.12 | −18% |
Ground conditions and code in Chicago
Permits in Chicago
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $600 in Illinois, and metro jurisdictions like Chicago 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 Chicago building department before work begins.
Hiring in Chicago
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 Illinois.
Frequently asked questions
How much does wood deck cost in Chicago?
In 2026, wood deck costs $31.34 to $62.68 per sq ft in Chicago. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $12,536 and $25,073.
Is Chicago more expensive than the rest of Illinois?
Yes. Chicago runs about 18% above the Illinois statewide average, driven by metro wage levels, permitting, and tighter site access.
Do I need a permit in Chicago?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $600 and allow extra time for review, since metro jurisdictions are typically slower than rural ones.
How do I compare quotes in Chicago?
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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