How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck?
Last updated: May 8, 2026 by the How Much Does That Cost? editorial team. Estimates are informational - see our methodology.
Building a deck costs $25 to $70 per square foot installed, or about $5,000 to $19,000 total for an average 300-square-foot deck, depending on material and height off the ground. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option, while composite and premium hardwoods cost significantly more but need far less maintenance.
Deck size is the primary cost driver, but material choice, railing style, and whether the deck is elevated or ground-level all meaningfully affect the total. The calculator below adjusts for your specific project.
Quick Answer
Typical range: $5,000 – $19,000
Low end
$3,500
High end
$30,000+
Actual pricing varies by location, project size, materials, labor rates, and job complexity. Use the calculator below for an estimate tailored to your project.
It Cost to Build a Deck? Cost Calculator
Adjust the inputs below for an estimate tailored to your project.
Optional upgrades
Estimated Project Cost
—
Typical estimate: —
This is an estimate, not a quote. Actual pricing depends on your specific project details and local contractor pricing.
Cost Breakdown
How a typical project budget breaks down by category.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Decking material | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Framing and structural lumber | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| Labor | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| Railings | $400 – $2,000 |
| Permits | $150 – $500 |
What Affects the Cost
Deck size
Total cost scales with square footage, since larger decks need more decking boards, joists, footings, and labor hours to build.
Decking material
Pressure-treated wood is the most budget-friendly option; composite and PVC decking cost more upfront but require little more than occasional washing, unlike wood which needs periodic staining and sealing.
Height and structure
Ground-level decks need less framing and no railing in many jurisdictions, while raised or multi-level decks need deeper footings, more support posts, and required guardrails.
Railing style
Basic wood or composite railing is included in most base quotes, while cable, glass panel, or metal railing upgrades can add several thousand dollars.
Permits and local building code
Most municipalities require a permit and inspection for decks attached to the house or above a certain height, and code may dictate footing depth based on frost line.
Removal of an old deck
Demolishing and hauling away an existing deck before building the new one adds labor and disposal cost, especially if the old structure has structural rot.
Cost by Deck Size
| Deck Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 150 sq ft | $3,750 – $10,500 |
| 250 sq ft | $6,250 – $17,500 |
| 300 sq ft | $7,500 – $21,000 |
| 400 sq ft | $10,000 – $28,000 |
| 500 sq ft | $12,500 – $35,000 |
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Doing it yourself
DIY deck building can save significantly on labor and is achievable for a handy homeowner building a simple, low, ground-level deck with a permit and inspected plans, but structural framing mistakes on a raised deck can create serious safety hazards.
Hiring a professional
Licensed deck builders understand local frost-line footing depths, load calculations, and code-required railing and stair specs, and typically complete an average deck in 1-2 weeks including inspections.
Bottom line: A simple ground-level deck is a reasonable DIY project for an experienced do-it-yourselfer; raised, multi-level, or attached decks are best built by a licensed contractor given the structural and safety stakes.
Ways to Save
- Get at least three quotes from licensed deck builders, since labor rates and material markups vary widely.
- Choose pressure-treated wood instead of composite if you're willing to re-stain every 2-3 years.
- Keep the deck footprint simple and rectangular — curves, multiple levels, and angles all add framing labor.
- Build the deck at ground level if your yard allows, avoiding the cost of railings and deep footings.
- Schedule construction in the contractor's slower season (late fall/winter in most regions) for better pricing.
- Handle staining/sealing yourself in subsequent years instead of paying the contractor for ongoing maintenance.
How We Estimated This Cost
We model each calculator from public price ranges, labor data, material pricing, industry surveys, and the regional adjustment method explained in our methodology. Estimates are reviewed for consumer usefulness, then shown as ranges because local quotes, site conditions, materials, and timing can change the final price.
Want an exact price?
Get free estimates from local, pre-screened professionals for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a deck?
Building a deck costs about $9,800 on average, with most homeowners paying between $5,000 and $19,000 depending on size, material, and height.
How much does a deck cost per square foot?
Decks typically cost $25 to $70 per square foot installed. Pressure-treated wood is on the low end; composite, PVC, and hardwood decking cost more.
Is composite decking worth the extra cost?
For most homeowners, yes — composite decking costs more upfront but eliminates the need for annual staining and sealing, and typically lasts 25-30 years versus 10-15 for wood.
How long does it take to build a deck?
A straightforward deck under 300 square feet usually takes about a week to build, while larger, multi-level, or elevated decks can take 2-3 weeks including permitting and inspections.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most municipalities require a permit for any deck attached to the house or higher than about 30 inches off the ground; a low, freestanding deck may not need one, but it's worth confirming with your local building department.