Cost to Build a Deck (Per Square Foot, 2026)
Part of Decks, Fences & Roofing
Quick answer
A new deck costs roughly $25–$70 per square foot installed. Pressure-treated wood runs $25–$45/ft², cedar $30–$50, and composite $40–$70. A 16 × 12 ft deck (192 ft²) typically costs $4,800–$13,000 installed; DIY drops it to mostly material cost, around $2,000–$5,000.
Deck cost is driven by size, decking material, and height off the ground (taller decks need bigger posts, more bracing, and stairs). Labor is usually about half of an installed quote, so building it yourself is where the big savings are.
Installed cost per square foot
| Decking | Installed / ft² | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated pine | $25–$45 | Cheapest; needs sealing |
| Cedar / redwood | $30–$50 | Natural rot resistance |
| Composite | $40–$70 | Low maintenance, higher up front |
| PVC / capped | $50–$80 | Most durable surface |
| Tropical hardwood | $50–$90 | Premium, very hard |
What changes the price
- Height and stairs: an elevated deck with a staircase costs far more than a ground-level platform.
- Railing: code-required on raised decks and a real line item — often $20–$60 per linear foot.
- Footings and framing: more posts and beams for tall or large decks.
- Decking choice and hidden fasteners drive the surface cost up.
The deck calculator builds a pre-priced estimate — decking, joists, screws and labor — you can edit to local prices; use the stair calculator to add the steps.
FAQs
Is composite or wood decking cheaper?
Pressure-treated wood is cheaper up front — about $25–$45 per square foot installed versus $40–$70 for composite. Composite costs more initially but skips the staining, sealing and board replacement that wood needs, so it can win over 15–20 years.
How much does a 12x12 deck cost?
A 12 × 12 ft deck is 144 ft². At $25–$70 per square foot installed that's roughly $3,600–$10,000, depending on decking and height. DIY in pressure-treated lumber can bring materials down to about $1,500–$2,500.