The 2026 deck cost guide
Average deck building costs, broken down by size, material, and labor. Built for homeowners and contractors planning a new build.
Most homeowners spend between $4,500 and $15,000 on a new deck, which works out to roughly $30–$60 per square foot installed. The exact number depends on five things: size, material, height, location, and whether you DIY or hire a contractor.
Average deck cost by size
| Size | Sqft | Pressure-Treated | Composite | Hardwood |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | 100 | $2,000–$3,500 | $3,500–$6,000 | $5,500–$9,000 |
| 12×12 | 144 | $2,800–$4,800 | $4,800–$8,500 | $8,000–$12,500 |
| 12×16 | 192 | $3,800–$6,200 | $6,500–$11,000 | $10,500–$16,000 |
| 16×20 | 320 | $6,000–$10,500 | $10,500–$18,000 | $17,000–$26,000 |
| 20×20 | 400 | $7,500–$13,000 | $13,000–$23,000 | $21,000–$32,000 |
Cost by material
Material is the single largest cost driver. See the full material comparison →
- Pressure-treated pine: $15–$25/sqft installed. The budget pick.
- Cedar: $20–$35/sqft. Naturally rot-resistant, beautiful grain.
- Composite (Trex Enhance, TimberTech): $30–$60/sqft. Low maintenance, 25-year warranty.
- PVC / capped: $45–$65/sqft. Premium look, fully synthetic.
- Hardwood (Ipe, Mahogany): $50–$75/sqft. Premium and long-lasting.
What's included in deck cost
- Decking boards and structural lumber (joists, beams, posts)
- Concrete footings and post anchors
- Fasteners, hangers, and hardware
- Basic railings and stairs
- Permit fees (where required)
- Contractor labor (roughly 40% of total)
Deck cost in your state
Labor is the part of a deck bill that changes most from state to state. Our deck cost by state pages scale these national prices by each state's carpenter wages (BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024) and goods price level (BEA Regional Price Parities, 2024), show the inputs, and include a calculator priced for that state.
Hidden costs most people forget
- Demolition of an existing deck: $500–$2,500
- Electrical wiring for outdoor outlets or hot tubs: $400–$1,800
- Landscaping repair after construction: $200–$800
- Premium finishes like hidden fasteners, picture-framing: +10–15%
- Site prep — grading, tree removal, retaining walls
How to save money on your deck build
- Build off-season. Late winter and fall offer 10–20% better pricing. Read more →
- Stick to a rectangle. Custom shapes add 15–25% in labor.
- Choose entry-level composite instead of premium for similar long-term value.
- DIY railings or stairs only — leave structural work to pros.
- Get 3 quotes. Pricing varies wildly by contractor backlog.
Save on your build with these top picks
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
CAMO EDGEClip Universal Hidden Deck Fastener Clip (900 ct) | (0344356), 305 Stainless Gusset and Screw, Clip Creates 3/16 in (4.7 mm) Spacing, For Use With Composite Decking Boards
$349.40
Check price on Amazon
Black and Decker Deck Codes and Standards 2nd Edition: How to Design, Build, Inspect, and Maintain a Safer Deck
Save 51%
$12.21List Price:: $24.99
Ready Seal Exterior Wood Stain & Sealer, Natural Cedar, 5 Gallon | 5 Gallon semi-transparent "Goof Proof" oil-based stain & sealer for decks, fences, siding & pergolas; no primer, no streaks.
$189.94
Check price on Amazon
ShunHong Outdoor Solid Composite Decking Boards Color Samples Pack | Polymer Composite Decking for All Weather Use,Poolside,Backyard,Patio(3 Pcs, 0.5ft Color Samples)
$15.99
Check price on AmazonPrices and savings as of Oct 25, 2026, 4:32 AM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Shopping for someone? See our backyard gift guide for deck builders & DIYers.
Building something else? Try our sister calculators
Smart Fencing Calculator
Estimate fence cost by material and linear footage.
Smart Roofing Calculator
Free roof replacement cost estimates by material.
Fence Calculator
Android app — posts, pickets, panels and fence cost.
Gravel & Stone Calculator
Android app — gravel under the deck and footings, in tons and yards.
Roofing Calculator
Android app — roof squares, shingles and covered-deck roofs.
Drywall Calculator
Android app — drywall sheets, mud, and tape estimates.
Get your deck estimate in 60 seconds
Free, no signup required.