Get an instant cost estimate for your deck build by material, state, finish level, and add-ons. State-adjusted pricing based on 2026 RSMeans data.
Deck Details
Decking Material
Pressure Treated Wood
$15–$30/sq ft
Composite (Trex / TimberTech)
$28–$52/sq ft
Low maintenance
Cedar / Redwood
$20–$42/sq ft
Tropical Hardwood (Ipe)
$35–$70/sq ft
Low maintenance
Aluminum
$25–$48/sq ft
Low maintenance
PVC / Vinyl
$22–$44/sq ft
Low maintenance
Finish Level
Basic
Simple, functional
Standard
Most popular
Premium
Upgraded materials
Luxury
High-end finishes
Deck Height
Ground Level
Under 2 ft — simpler framing
Elevated
2 ft+ — requires posts & beams (+$8/sq ft)
Optional Add-ons
Railing System
$180 per lin ft
Stairs (per flight)
$900 per flight
Pergola / Shade Cover
$4,500 flat
Built-in LED Lighting
$1,200 flat
Deck Skirting
$22 per lin ft
Built-in Fire Pit
$3,200 flat
Decking Material Comparison — 2026
Material
Cost/sq ft
Lifespan
Maintenance
Best For
Pressure Treated Wood
$15–$30
10–15 yrs
High
Budget builds
Cedar / Redwood
$20–$42
15–20 yrs
Medium
Natural look
Composite (Trex)
$28–$52
25–30 yrs
Low
Most popular
PVC / Vinyl
$22–$44
25–30 yrs
Very Low
Wet climates
Aluminum
$25–$48
30+ yrs
Very Low
Pool decks
Tropical Hardwood (Ipe)
$35–$70
30–40 yrs
Low
Premium builds
How to Save on Your Deck Build
📐
Right-size your deck
Most decks are over-built. A 300–400 sq ft deck serves most households. Going bigger adds cost fast — especially for elevated decks.
🏗️
Get 3 contractor bids
Labor prices for deck work vary by 30–40% between contractors in the same city. Always get at least 3 bids before committing.
🌿
Composite pays off long-term
Pressure treated wood is cheaper upfront but requires staining every 2 years. Composite costs more initially but saves ~$500/yr in maintenance.
📅
Build in late fall or winter
Contractors are less busy Oct–Feb. You can often negotiate 10–20% lower labor costs outside of peak season.
🔩
Supply your own hardware
Buying your own fasteners, screws, and hardware from a big-box store can save 15–25% vs. contractor-supplied materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 400 sq ft deck cost in 2026?
A 400 sq ft deck typically costs $9,000–$21,000 depending on material and location. Composite decking in the $11,000–$15,000 range is the most common choice. Elevated decks or luxury finishes can push costs to $28,000+.
What is the cheapest deck material?
Pressure treated (PT) wood is the cheapest at $15–$30/sq ft installed. However, it requires annual maintenance and typically lasts 10–15 years. Composite costs more upfront but is cheaper over a 20-year period when maintenance is factored in.
Does deck size affect cost per square foot?
Yes. Smaller decks (under 200 sq ft) often cost more per square foot because fixed costs like permits, post installation, and equipment are spread across fewer square feet. Larger decks benefit from economies of scale.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most jurisdictions require a permit for decks over 200 sq ft or elevated more than 30 inches. Permit costs range from $150–$500. Always check with your local building department before starting.
How accurate is this deck cost calculator?
This calculator uses 2026 RSMeans cost data adjusted for each state. Estimates are within ±15% of actual contractor bids for standard builds. Custom designs, difficult site access, or unusual materials may affect final pricing.
How long does it take to build a deck?
A typical 300–500 sq ft deck takes 3–7 days for an experienced crew. Larger decks or those with complex features like multiple levels, pergolas, or built-in features can take 2–3 weeks.