Deck Cost Calculator

A deck is a structure, so footings, framing, and code-compliant railings cost as much as the boards you see. Enter your deck size and material to see a planning range.

Typical cost (US average)$13,500 – $18,50016′ × 20′ (320 sq ft), mid-range finishes. Includes labor, permits, disposal, tax, and a 10% contingency.

Your project

Your citySets local labor rates, permit costs, and sales tax

Project size (sq ft)

sq ft

Contingency cushion

Finish level

Scope included in estimateUncheck items you plan to keep or handle yourself

Framing, Beams & JoistsPressure-treated ground contact posts, double beams, joists spaced 12" or 16" on center.

Concrete Pier FootingsDigging below local frost depth, Sonotube concrete footings with galvanized post brackets.

Decking Surface BoardsDecking surface with hidden fastener clip system.

Railing & Baluster SystemCode-compliant 36" or 42" railing system with posts, top rail, and infill.

Stairs & StringersPressure-treated stringers, matching decking treads, graspable handrail.

Old Deck Demolition & HaulingDismantling old deteriorated wood deck and hauling to landfill.

Often forgotten

What am I forgetting?

Deck ledger flashing failure ($400 - $800): Water leaking behind the ledger board rots your home's band joist. Ensure proper Z-flashing.
Under-deck weed barrier and gravel bed ($350 - $700): Keeping weeds and standing water away under the new deck.

Quote checklist

Your contractor's quote should list

Footing depth specified to meet local municipality frost line (e.g. 36" or 42")
Fasteners must be 316 stainless steel or approved coated for ACQ pressure treated wood
Deck ledger board flashing and attachment to house framing with structural screws
Local building permit and inspection sign-offs included

Deck cost by size

Deck size	Size	Mid-range cost
Small	12′ × 12′ (144 sq ft)	$6,500 – $9,000
Medium	16′ × 20′ (320 sq ft)	$13,500 – $18,500
Large	20′ × 25′ (500 sq ft)	$20,500 – $28,000

National-average prices from our calculator with its default scope. Your quotes will vary with site conditions and exact products.

Deck cost by material

Finish level	Per sq ft	320 sq ft total
Pressure-Treated Pine#1 pressure-treated southern yellow pine boards, standard wood balusters.	$31 – $42	$9,800 – $13,500
Capped Composite (Trex / TimberTech)Capped composite decking, hidden fastener clips, aluminum black baluster railing.	$42 – $58	$13,500 – $18,500
Premium Ipe Hardwood or PVCExotic Brazilian Ipe hardwood or Azek vintage PVC, drink rail, integrated LED stair lighting.	$60 – $82	$19,000 – $26,000

Structural watchouts

Ledger flashing Water behind the ledger board rots the house framing. Proper flashing is required.
Footing depth Concrete footings must go below your local frost line so the deck does not heave.
Fasteners Treated lumber corrodes standard screws. Use coated or stainless fasteners rated for it.

What the price includes

Composite deck with black metal railing — **Composite is the popular mid-range choice**Capped composite boards with aluminum railings cost more upfront than wood but need far less upkeep.

Deck framing with joist hangers — **The structure matters most**Footings below the frost line, proper joist hangers, and a flashed ledger board keep a deck safe.

Questions

Deck cost FAQ

How much does a new deck cost in 2026?

Our calculator puts a new deck (16′ × 20′, mid-range finishes) at about $13,500 – $18,500 at national-average prices. Size, finish level, and local labor rates move the total, so enter your own numbers above for an itemized range.

What does a new deck cost per sq ft?

Installed cost runs from about $31 per sq ft (Pressure-Treated Pine) up to about $82 per sq ft (Premium Ipe Hardwood or PVC), including labor, permits, disposal, tax, and a 10% contingency.

Is composite decking worth the extra cost?

Composite costs more upfront but needs far less yearly maintenance than pressure-treated wood. Over 15 years, total ownership cost can favor composite if you stay in the home.

Do I need a permit to build a deck?

Most cities require a permit for decks attached to the house or more than about 30 inches off the ground. The permit usually includes a footing and framing inspection.