A new deck is one of the most popular home projects in America, and one of the hardest to budget without a quote. This guide puts real 2026 numbers on the main choices.
The short answer
Angi puts the average professionally built deck at $30–$60 per square foot, with a national average project cost of about $8,250 and a typical range of $4,300 to $12,600, according to NerdWallet. Labor accounts for roughly half the total.
Cost by deck size
Middle-of-the-range installed prices, not including railing:
| Deck size | Area | Pressure-treated ($35) | Composite ($62) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 100 sq ft | $3,500 | $6,200 |
| 12 × 12 ft | 144 sq ft | $5,040 | $8,928 |
| 12 × 16 ft | 192 sq ft | $6,720 | $11,904 |
| 16 × 20 ft | 320 sq ft | $11,200 | $19,840 |
| 20 × 20 ft | 400 sq ft | $14,000 | $24,800 |
Wood vs. composite: the real comparison
Composite decking from brands like Trex and TimberTech typically costs one and a half to two times as much as pressure-treated pine to install. In exchange, it doesn’t need staining or sealing, won’t splinter, and is often warranted for 25 years or more.
A pressure-treated deck needs cleaning and staining every two to three years. Hiring that out for a 300 sq ft deck adds up over a decade, so over 15–20 years the total cost of the two options often ends up close. If you’ll sell within five years, wood usually makes more financial sense; if you’re staying long-term and dislike maintenance, composite earns its price.
One detail matters either way: even composite decks are almost always framed with pressure-treated lumber underneath. Proper flashing where the deck meets the house is what prevents rot.
What else adds to the price
- Railing: about $20–$80 per linear foot; cable and glass systems cost much more.
- Stairs: each step adds framing and boards; a raised deck can need a dozen.
- Height: second-story decks need bigger posts, beams and footings.
- Removing an old deck: often $5–$10 per square foot including haul-away.
- Permits and inspections: required in most cities for attached or raised decks.
Is a deck a good investment?
According to the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report, cited by NerdWallet, homeowners recover about 89% of the cost of a new wood deck in added home value, making it one of the better-returning outdoor projects.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to build a deck yourself?
Materials are roughly half the cost of a professionally built deck, so DIY can save a lot. But framing, footings and the house connection must meet code and pass inspection.
How long does a deck last?
A well-maintained pressure-treated deck lasts 15–20 years; composite and PVC decking 25–30 years or more.
What’s the cheapest deck material?
Pressure-treated southern yellow pine.
Sources: NerdWallet, citing Angi and the National Association of Realtors (2026); RemodelAI deck cost guide (2026); Decks.com deck cost data (2026).
