Cost To Build A Deck

A new deck adds usable outdoor living space, and it is one of the more predictable outdoor projects to budget because contractors price it largely by the square foot. The final number depends on size, decking material, how high the deck sits off the ground, and extras like railings, stairs and footings.

This guide breaks down installed costs by size and material, a line-item estimate for a typical deck, and ways to save. To run your own numbers, try our deck cost estimator; if you are tearing out an old deck first, see the deck replacement cost guide.

Average cost

Installed deck costs (labor and materials), national averages as of October 2026:

Deck cost per sq. ft. by material

Installed prices including framing, footings and labor (HomeGuide, 2026).

Deck cost by size

Cost breakdown: materials, labor, permits and extras

Line-item estimate for a 12x16-ft (192 sq. ft.) pressure-treated deck attached to a one-story home, about 2–3 ft off the ground, with a wood railing. Ranges are national, as of October 8, 2026.

Labor typically accounts for 40%–50% of a deck's cost; switching to composite roughly doubles the material line.

What affects the price

• Size. Price scales with square footage. Angi reports about $5,760–$8,640 for a 12x12 deck and $16,000–$24,000 for 20x20, though larger decks can earn a slightly lower price per sq. ft.
• Material (pressure-treated, cedar, composite). Pressure-treated pine is cheapest at about $25–$50 per sq. ft. installed; cedar and redwood run about $28–$54, and composite $40–$80. Composite costs more upfront but skips the regular staining wood needs.
• Height. Ground-level platform decks cost about $25–$30 per sq. ft., elevated decks (3 ft or more) $30–$50, second-story decks $50–$60 and multi-level designs $60–$100, because of taller posts, bracing and engineering.
• Railing and stairs. Wood or vinyl railings run about $20–$60 per linear foot, and a set of deck stairs averages $1,400–$2,600. Decks more than about 30 inches above grade generally need guardrails under building codes.
• Permits. Permits range from about $50 to $500 depending on size and town; attached decks almost always need one, and the inspector will check footings, ledger attachment and railings.
• Foundation. Concrete footings typically cost $200–$400 each installed, and must extend below the frost line in cold climates. Rocky or bedrock sites can raise digging costs, while floating decks on deck blocks cost less.

Ways to save

• Build a simple rectangle close to the ground; corners, angles, curves and multiple levels raise both lumber waste and labor.
• Use pressure-treated framing even if you choose composite decking, and consider a pressure-treated surface if you're willing to stain it every few years.
• Keep the deck under the height that triggers guardrails where practical, and use a single wide step instead of a full staircase.
• Collect at least three itemized quotes and compare the price per sq. ft. for the same material, size, railing and stair count.
• Book in late fall or winter, when deck builders are less busy; spring and early summer are peak season.
• Handle demolition of an old deck, staining or site cleanup yourself if you have the time and tools.

Related questions people ask

What is the cost of building a deck per square foot?

The cost of building a deck is usually $30–$60 per sq. ft. installed according to Angi, with HomeGuide reporting $25–$50 for new pressure-treated construction. Labor alone runs about $15–$35 per sq. ft., and materials range from $2–$5 per sq. ft. for pressure-treated lumber to $12–$22 for composite boards.

How to get an accurate quote

Get at least three written quotes from licensed, insured deck builders. Give each the same information:

• Deck dimensions, height above grade and where it attaches to the house (or whether it is freestanding).
• Decking and railing material, plus the number of stairs, landings and any built-in benches, lighting or skirting.
• Site conditions: slope, soil, trees, utilities and whether an old deck or patio must be removed.
• Ask who pulls the permit, how footings will be sized, which fasteners and flashing they use, and what the workmanship warranty covers.

FAQ

How long does it take to build a deck?

Timelines depend mostly on size, height and permit approval. A simple ground-level deck is a much shorter job than an elevated or multi-level deck, which needs deeper footings, more framing and inspections at several stages. Ask each builder for a written schedule that includes permit lead time.

Is composite decking worth the extra cost?

Composite costs roughly $15–$30 more per sq. ft. installed than pressure-treated wood, but it doesn't need sanding or staining. Staining a wood deck costs about $550–$1,250 each time, so the gap narrows over the deck's life. See our deck staining cost guide for upkeep prices.

Do I need a permit to build a deck?

In most places, yes, especially for decks attached to the house, raised more than about 30 inches or larger than a set size. Permits typically cost $50–$500, and building without one can cause problems when you sell.

For the big picture, start with our complete fence installation cost guide.

Prices are estimates and vary by location and provider. See our methodology and editorial policy. Browse all yard & pests cost guides.