Deck Cost Calculator
Estimate what it costs to build a deck. Enter the deck size and pick a decking material, and you'll get a US national-average installed price range - labor and materials.
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Estimated cost
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Enter the area to see an estimate.
How to estimate
- Measure the area you're covering - length × width.
- Pick the grade or material that matches your project.
- Read the estimated installed cost range for your area.
What drives the cost
- Decking material - pressure-treated pine is cheapest; cedar and composite cost more, PVC and tropical hardwood most.
- Height and stairs - a raised deck needs taller posts, more framing and a staircase, all adding labor.
- Railings - wood, composite, metal or glass rail runs $20–$90+ per linear foot on top of the deck field.
- Footings and site - post holes, concrete footings, slope and hard soil add cost.
- Permits and demolition - a permit and tearing out an old deck are common extras.
- Local labor rates - the biggest regional swing.
Average installed cost
| Grade | Per ft² (installed) | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $20–$40 | Budget, ground-level |
| Composite / cedar | $35–$55 | Low-maintenance, mid-range |
| PVC / hardwood | $50–$75 | Premium, long-lasting |
Ranges are national averages and vary with region, prep and material - a starting point, not a quote.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to build a deck?
- Installed, a pressure-treated wood deck runs about $20–$40 per square foot (labor + materials); composite is roughly $35–$55, and PVC or hardwood $50–$75. A 12×16 ft (192 ft²) composite deck lands around $6,700–$10,500. Enter your size above.
- Is composite decking worth it over pressure-treated wood?
- Composite costs more upfront ($35–$55/ft² vs $20–$40) but needs no staining or sealing and lasts 25–50 years, so it can be cheaper over the deck's life. Wood is cheaper to build but needs regular maintenance.
- Does a raised deck cost more than a ground-level one?
- Yes. Taller decks need longer posts, more framing, bracing and a staircase and are harder to build, so expect to pay toward the top of the range versus a ground-level platform of the same size.
- Why is this only an estimate?
- Height, railings, footings, permits, demolition and local labor all move the price. Use this national-average range as a starting point, then get local quotes.
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