Planning a retaining wall but worried about the price tag? I’ve been there. Understanding retaining wall cost per linear foot helps you budget right from the start.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through real numbers based on material, wall type, and location. You’ll learn what drives prices up or down and how to avoid overspending.
I spent hours researching contractor quotes to give you straight answers. If you’re fixing a slope or adding curb appeal, you’ll know exactly what to expect before breaking ground.
Average Retaining Wall Cost Per Linear Foot
Understanding typical costs helps you set a realistic budget. The national average retaining wall cost per linear foot sits around $30 to $60 for basic installations. Most residential projects land between $20 and $75 per linear foot.
Budget-friendly options like treated wood start around $20 to $25. Mid-range choices such as interlocking blocks run $35 to $50. Premium materials like natural stone reach $60 to $75 or higher.
Low-end projects cost $15 to $25 per linear foot. These use basic materials like railroad ties or vinyl. Short walls on flat ground work best at this price point.
High-end installations range from $75 to $150+ per linear foot. Natural stone, poured concrete, and engineered systems dominate this category. Complex sites with poor soil or steep slopes drive prices up.
Cost Breakdown by Material
Material choice controls a big chunk of your budget. Here’s what you’ll actually pay for popular materials.
Vinyl Retaining Walls:
Vinyl costs $15 to $30 per linear foot installed. It’s lightweight and easy to work with. Vinyl resists rot and insects better than wood. These walls work well for gardens and low decorative borders.
Gabion Walls:
Gabion walls run $30 to $60 per linear foot. These wire cages filled with rocks create a unique look. They offer excellent drainage naturally. The rock-filled design handles soil pressure well.
Wood Retaining Walls:
Wood costs $20 to $40 per linear foot depending on wood type. Treated lumber is the most affordable option. Installation is straightforward for experienced DIYers. These walls typically last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance.
Interlocking Concrete Blocks:
Interlocking blocks cost $25 to $50 per linear foot. They’re popular for their strength and appearance options. No mortar is needed, which speeds up installation. The modular design makes repairs easier.
Cinder Block Walls:
Cinder blocks run $20 to $35 per linear foot for basic installations. They’re affordable and widely available. These walls need reinforcement with rebar for taller structures.
Brick Retaining Walls:
Brick costs $30 to $60 per linear foot installed. It offers a classic, timeless appearance. These walls require a solid concrete footer. Regular maintenance keeps joints in good condition.
Poured Concrete Walls:
Poured concrete runs $40 to $80 per linear foot. It’s one of the strongest options available. These walls handle significant soil pressure. Poured concrete works for tall walls and challenging sites.
Natural Stone Walls:
Natural stone costs $60 to $120+ per linear foot. It’s the premium choice for appearance. Installation is labor-intensive and requires skilled masons. Stone walls last decades with minimal maintenance.
Steel & Corten Steel Walls:
Steel walls cost $50 to $150 per linear foot depending on design. These walls offer a modern, industrial look. Steel handles heavy loads and tall heights. Steel requires professional installation for structural safety.
Cost by Wall Type
Wall type affects both construction method and final price. Some designs cost more but handle specific challenges better.
Gravity Walls
Gravity walls cost $25 to $60 per linear foot. They rely on their own weight to hold back soil. These walls work best under four feet tall. No complex engineering is typically needed.
Anchored Walls (Tie-Back Systems)
Anchored walls run $50 to $100 per linear foot. Cables or rods anchor into stable soil behind the wall. This system works for taller walls with limited space. Engineering analysis is required for proper design.
Cantilever Walls
Cantilever walls cost $40 to $80 per linear foot. A concrete base extends under the retained soil. These work well for walls over six feet tall. Professional engineering is required for design.
Counterfort Walls
Counterfort walls run $60 to $120 per linear foot. These are used for very tall walls, typically over 20 feet. Most residential projects don’t need this wall type.
Sheet Pile Retaining Walls
Sheet pile walls cost $50 to $150 per linear foot. Interlocking steel or vinyl sheets are driven into the ground. They’re ideal for waterfront locations and tight spaces.
Cost Per Linear Foot by Location of Installation
Where you build affects difficulty and final cost. Some locations need extra prep work or special materials.
Driveway Retaining Wall Costs
Driveway walls cost $30 to $75 per linear foot. They need to handle vehicle weight and lateral pressure. Concrete or interlocking blocks work best here.
Front or Backyard Wall Costs
Yard walls run $25 to $60 per linear foot on average. These often serve decorative and functional purposes. Installation is typically straightforward on level ground.
Pool Area Retaining Wall Costs
Pool walls cost $40 to $90 per linear foot. They must meet strict safety and building codes. Professional installation is strongly recommended for safety.
Slope or Hillside Wall Costs
Hillside walls run $50 to $120+ per linear foot. Steep slopes increase excavation and material needs. These are among the most challenging installations.
Shoreline Retaining Wall Costs
Shoreline walls cost $60 to $150+ per linear foot. They face constant water pressure and erosion. Materials must resist water damage and corrosion.
Additional Factors That Impact Cost
Beyond basic construction, several factors add to your total. Here’s what else you need to plan for.
Wall Height and Length:
Height dramatically affects cost per linear foot. Walls under three feet might cost $20 to $40. Walls six feet or taller jump to $60 to $120+. Taller walls need thicker bases and reinforcement.
Land Preparation (Grading, Excavation, Clearing):
Site prep adds $500 to $3,000 to most projects. Excavation removes unstable soil and creates level bases. Grading ensures proper drainage away from the wall.
Drainage System Requirements:
Drainage systems add $10 to $30 per linear foot. Weep holes or drainage pipes prevent water buildup. Poor drainage causes wall failure over time. Most codes require proper drainage for safety.
Reinforcements for Taller Walls:
Reinforcement adds $15 to $40 per linear foot. Rebar strengthens concrete and block walls. Don’t skip reinforcement on walls over four feet.
Waterproofing Costs:
Waterproofing adds $5 to $15 per linear foot. Membrane barriers protect wall backs from moisture. Waterproofing extends wall lifespan significantly.
Permits and Engineering Fees:
Permits cost $100 to $500 depending on location. Walls over four feet usually need permits. Engineering analysis runs $500 to $2,000 for residential projects.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Installation
Doing it yourself saves money but requires skill and time, while professional installation costs more but brings expertise and warranties.
| Factor | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
| Cost | Materials only: $15 to $50 per linear foot | Full installation: $30 to $150+ per linear foot |
| Equipment Needed | Tools (levels, tampers, shovels), rentals $50 to $200 per day | Contractors provide all equipment |
| Best For | Walls under 3 feet on level ground with simple materials | Walls over 4 feet, steep slopes, near buildings or utilities |
| Permits & Engineering | You handle all permits and engineering (required for 4+ feet) | Contractor manages permits, inspections, and engineering |
| Insurance & Warranty | No coverage for accidents or mistakes | Carries insurance and provides warranties on work |
| Skill Required | Basic construction skills and patience needed | Professional expertise and experience included |
| Time Investment | Significant time commitment for learning and labor | Faster completion with skilled crews |
Bottom line: DIY saves money on short, simple walls. Professional installation is essential for taller walls, challenging sites, or projects near structures.
Conclusion
Getting your retaining wall cost per linear foot right means considering every angle. I’ve walked you through materials, wall types, and hidden expenses so you can plan confidently.
When I first priced my own retaining wall project, I was shocked by how much the quotes varied. Getting three estimates saved me nearly $2,000. Contact local contractors, share site photos, and ask about drainage and permits upfront. Get everything in writing.
Call a professional for walls over three feet, steep slopes, or permit requirements. What’s your biggest concern? Drop a comment below and let’s figure it out together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 100-foot retaining wall cost?
A 100-foot wall typically costs $2,000 to $7,500 depending on materials and height. Basic concrete blocks cost less while natural stone costs more.
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
Most areas require permits for walls over three or four feet tall. Check with your local building department before starting your project.
How long do retaining walls last?
Concrete and stone walls last 50 to 100 years with proper drainage. Wood walls typically last 10 to 20 years with regular maintenance.
Can I build a retaining wall myself?
You can build walls under three feet on level ground yourself. Anything taller or on slopes needs professional engineering and installation.
What’s the cheapest retaining wall material?
Treated wood and vinyl are the most affordable at $15 to $30 per linear foot. These work well for low walls with light-duty needs.
