Deck building cost in the United States ranges from $4,000 to $20,000 for a standard 200 square foot deck. Pressure treated wood is the most affordable option at $15-$25 per square foot installed, while composite decking costs $35-$60 per square foot. Use our free calculator below to get an instant estimate for your project.
Deck Building Cost by Material
| Decking Material | Cost per Sq Ft | Total Cost (200 sq ft) |
| Pressure treated wood | $15–$25 | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Cedar/Redwood | $20–$35 | $4,000–$7,000 |
| Composite | $30–$45 | $6,000–$9,000 |
| PVC/Vinyl | $40–$60 | $8,000–$12,000 |
| Hardwood/Exotic | $50–$80 | $10,000–$16,000 |
Use Our Free Deck Building Cost Calculator
Enter your deck dimensions and material below to get an instant cost estimate.
Deck Building Cost Calculator
What Factors Affect Deck Building Costs?
Deck costs are calculated per square foot. A small 100 square foot deck costs $1,500-$5,000 while a large 400 square foot deck costs $6,000-$24,000. Most build decks between 150-400 square feet depending on their yard and budget.
1. Decking Material
Pressure treated wood is the most affordable option and lasts 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Composite decking costs 2-3x more upfront but lasts 25-30 years with virtually no maintenance. For maximum longevity with a natural look, cedar and redwood are excellent mid-range options that resist rot and insects naturally.
2. Deck Height and Complexity
A ground-level deck costs less than an elevated deck requiring structural posts and footings. Multi-level decks, built-in seating, and pergolas add 20-50% to total costs. Stairs cost $100-$300 per flight depending on material and height.
3. Permits
Most US cities require a building permit for decks over 200 square feet or elevated more than 30 inches. Permits cost $50-$500 depending on location. Your contractor should handle the permit process — always verify this before signing a contract.
4. Railing
Railing is required by code for decks over 30 inches high. Wood railing costs $15-$25 per linear foot installed. Composite railing costs $25-$35 per linear foot. Cable and metal railings are the premium option at $40-$80 per linear foot but offer unobstructed views.
How to Save Money on Deck Building
- Choose pressure treated wood over composite for maximum savings — 50% lower upfront cost
- Build a simple rectangular deck — complex shapes add 20-30% to labor costs
- Get at least 3 quotes from licensed deck contractors
- Build in late fall or winter when contractors offer off-season discounts
- Do your own staining and sealing after construction to save $200-$500
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a deck?
A professional crew can build a standard 200 square foot deck in 2-4 days. Complex multi-level decks with stairs and railings take 5-10 days. Permit approval can add 1-4 weeks to project start time.
Does a deck add value to your home?
Yes. A wood deck recoups approximately 65-70% of its cost at resale according to the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report. A composite deck recoups 60-65%. More importantly, a deck significantly improves quality of life and makes your home more attractive to buyers.
How long does a deck last?
A pressure treated wood deck lasts 15-20 years with regular sealing and staining every 2-3 years. Cedar and redwood last 20-25 years. Composite decking lasts 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. Hardwood decks can last 30-50 years with proper care.
Bottom Line: Deck Building Cost
Deck building costs between $4,000 and $20,000 for most US homeowners depending on size and material. Pressure treated wood offers the best value at $3,000-$5,000 for a standard 200 square foot deck. Use our free calculator above for a personalized estimate and always get multiple quotes from licensed contractors before starting your project.