Aluminum Fence Costs for Chicagoland & North Shore IL (2025)
Looking to build an Aluminum fence?
Thinking about installing an aluminum fence in the North Shore suburbs? Before you commit, it helps to know what affects cost, what options are available, and what you can expect here locally in places like Highland Park, Northbrook, Evanston, Skokie, Lake Forest, Deerfield, and Glenview. At First Class Fence we handle aluminum fence installations, repairs, gates, and ornamental work in all these areas — here’s a detailed guide to help you plan.
What Determines the Cost of an Aluminum Fence
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay. Below are the main cost drivers:
Linear footage and height: Longer fences cost more. Taller panels need more material, bigger posts, more structure.
Fence style and design: Standard picket styles are less expensive. Ornamental features (scrolls, finials, decorative tops) raise the price. Powder-coated or custom colors cost more.
Gates: Single-swing, double gates, driveway gates, or automated gates add significantly to cost.
Material grade & finish: Residential-grade aluminum vs heavier-gauge or commercial-grade; powder-coated finishes or special colors add to cost.
Terrain & site prep: Sloping yards in Lake Forest or areas with hard soil in Highland Park require more work (more posts, specialized anchors). Removal of an existing fence or clearing vegetation also adds cost.
Permits & local regulations: Many municipalities (e.g., Evanston, Skokie, Northbrook) have permit fees. They may require fence heights or styles to meet local codes.
Labor & contractor rates: Local labor rates in Chicagoland/North Shore tend to be higher than more rural areas. Adding in snow-season limitations can affect timeline and cost.
Typical Cost Ranges in Chicagoland / North Shore
Here are ballpark numbers (2025) for aluminum fences in your area, installed by a professional contractor like First Class Fence. These are estimates; actual prices will depend on the specifics above.
| Fence Style | Approx. Cost per Linear Foot* | Typical Uses / What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Basic residential aluminum picket | $35–$55 / ft | Standard panels, simple vertical pickets, black or white finish; good for perimeter fences and backyards. |
| Powder-coated or colored aluminum | $50–$70 / ft | More durability, better corrosion / rust protection, more color options. |
| Ornamental aluminum (decorative posts, scrollwork, finials) | $80–$110 / ft | Front yard accent, high visibility areas, enhanced design. |
| Privacy aluminum panels (solid panels) | $90–$130 / ft | Pool enclosures, side yard privacy, high-security areas. |
*These ranges include materials + standard labor + basic site prep. Gates, difficult terrain, extra permits, or removal of existing fences will add extra costs.
Additional Local Costs & Extras
Permit Fees: Each suburb has its own rules — for example, Evanston may require specific design approvals; Lake Forest might need setback or height compliance. Budget maybe $100-$400+ for permits.
Snow & Winter Conditions: In colder months, frost lines, freeze-thaw soil movement can necessitate deeper footings or special hardware — slightly more labor/material cost.
Maintenance Access: If your property has tight side yards or obstacles, labor may cost more.
Decorative Add-ons: Custom top rails, post caps, special finishes, or matching gates will push you above base rates.
Aluminum vs Other Fence Materials (Wood, Vinyl, Chain-Link, Metal)
Here’s how aluminum compares locally:
| Feature | Aluminum Fencing | Wood Fencing | Vinyl Fencing | Chain-Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Low — resists rust, doesn’t warp or rot; occasional cleaning needed | More — needs staining/sealing; rot/insect risk in humid summers | Low — almost no maintenance; color may fade over time | Low material cost, but less privacy and less decorative options |
| Durability in Snow / Chicago Winters | High — aluminum resists rust and cracking in freeze-thaw | Wood can swell/dry/crack; rot possible near ground | Very durable, though extreme cold can cause small movements | Durable but not private; may need rust protection |
| Curb Appeal / Design Options | Ornamental styles, powder coat, decorative finishes | Natural, warm look; many styles; option to stain or paint | Clean, consistent look; many colors but less natural grain | Very functional, less aesthetic unless customized |
Local Examples & Advice
In Highland Park or Lake Forest, decorative aluminum fences with ornate tops and powder-coated black finishes are especially popular in historic districts. In Skokie and Northbrook, many homeowners choose aluminum fences around pools or yard perimeters, emphasizing low maintenance. In Deerfield and Evanston, matching gates with ornamental design elements help fences blend with architecture.
How First Class Fence Helps
If you’re considering an aluminum fence in the North Shore suburbs, First Class Fence can assist with:
Site evaluation and measurement
Recommending appropriate styles/materials for your fence and local climate conditions
Handling permit applications where needed
Offering custom gates, decorative elements, or automated gate systems
Skilled installation with local crews familiar with North Shore weather, soil, and building codes
Sample Project Costs (Estimate)
Here are sample cost estimates for a standard Aluminum fence project in North Shore IL for a yard about 150 linear feet:
Basic aluminum picket (black) with one single gate: ~ $6,000 – $8,000
Powder-coated aluminum with decorative top and double swing gate: ~ $8,500 – $12,500
Ornamental panels with scroll work, privacy panels, and matching custom gate: ~ $12,000 – $18,000+, depending on complexity
Tips to Keep Costs in Check
Choose standard styles and finishes rather than highly custom ornamentation
Make sure site prep is minimal (flat terrain, minimal removal or disposal required)
Bundle gates and fences together in quotes to reduce cost per unit
Compare coatings / finish warranties (powder coat vs standard painting)
Aluminum Fence Cost Summary for North Shore Suburbs
Aluminum fencing is a strong value choice for homeowners in Chicagoland and the North Shore suburbs. Expect to spend more than basic wood or chain-link, but less in maintenance costs over time. With the right design and contractor like First Class Fence, you get durable, elegant fences that boost curb appeal and stand up to local weather year after year.
