How much does a wrought iron fence cost in Southern California?
Wrought iron is the go-to choice when a fence has to do two jobs at once — look sharp from the street and hold up as real security. It is the most-requested material we install across La Puente and the San Gabriel Valley, on front yards, driveways, and commercial perimeters. This guide breaks down typical wrought iron fence costs and what moves the price, so you can plan before scheduling a free measurement with Apexguard Fence.
As a planning range, installed wrought iron fencing in our area generally runs about $50 to $100 per linear foot. A standard ornamental residential fence usually falls in the $50–$75 per foot range, while taller, heavier, or custom security fencing runs $80–$120+ per foot. For a common front-yard run of around 100 linear feet, that works out to roughly $5,000–$10,000 installed, before gates and any removal. Use our online estimator for a quick ballpark, then get an exact quote on site.
What affects the price
- Height — a 6 ft security fence costs more than a 4 ft decorative front-yard fence (more steel, taller posts, deeper footings).
- Gates — each pedestrian, walk, or driveway gate adds to the total, and an automatic driveway gate adds the most.
- Footings & slope — deep concrete footings, hillside lots, and stepped runs take more labor to do right.
- Old fence removal — tear-out and disposal of an existing fence or wall adds labor and dump fees.
- Style & detailing — spear tops, scrolls, rings, pressed finials, pet pickets, and powder-coat colors beyond standard black cost more than a plain flat-top run.
- Finish — properly galvanized then powder-coated iron costs more than bare painted steel, but it is what keeps rust away for decades in our climate.
What about the gate?
Gates are usually the single biggest line item. A manual wrought iron driveway gate typically starts around $2,000–$5,000 installed, depending on width and design. Adding an automatic operator, keypad, loop sensor, safety photo-eyes, and a remote generally adds $2,500–$6,000+ on top. If a driveway gate is on your list, see our automatic gate installation page and our driveway gate cost guide.
Wrought iron vs. aluminum: cost over time
Aluminum fencing looks similar from a distance and costs less up front, but it is lighter, dents more easily, and offers less real security. Wrought iron costs more to install because it is heavier and built on site, but galvanized-and-powder-coated iron lasts decades with little upkeep. For driveways, frontage, and anywhere security matters, that durability usually justifies the difference. If you are weighing the two, read our wrought iron vs. aluminum guide.
How to keep your quote accurate
The biggest cost surprises come from gates, footings, removal, and terrain — all of which we confirm during a free on-site measurement. For the full picture across materials, see our La Puente fence cost guide, or start your project on our wrought iron fence installation page.
FAQ
How much does a wrought iron fence cost per foot?
In Southern California, installed wrought iron fencing commonly runs about $50 to $100 per linear foot. A standard ornamental residential fence usually lands in the $50–$75 per foot range, while taller, heavier, or custom security fencing runs $80–$120+ per foot. The final number depends on height, picket style, gates, footings, slope, and whether an old fence has to be removed.
How much does a wrought iron driveway gate cost?
A manual wrought iron driveway gate typically starts around $2,000–$5,000 installed depending on width, height, and design. Adding an automatic operator, keypad, safety sensors, and a remote usually adds $2,500–$6,000+ on top, based on the gate size and access setup.
Is wrought iron more expensive than aluminum?
Yes. Wrought iron usually costs more than aluminum up front because it is heavier, stronger, and built on site. Aluminum is lighter and cheaper but dents more easily and offers less security. Properly galvanized and powder-coated iron lasts decades, which is why many homeowners choose it for driveways, frontage, and security.
What makes a wrought iron fence cost more?
The biggest factors are height, gates, and footings. Taller security heights, multiple or automated gates, deep concrete footings on slopes, demolition of an old fence, tight site access, and custom details such as spear tops, scrolls, and pet pickets all raise the price compared to a basic flat-top run.