Homeowners and builders typically pay for cedar 6×6 posts based on length, grade, and whether they are treated or unfinished. The price range reflects differences in quality, quantity, and delivery. The main cost drivers are post length, material grade, and installation needs.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Posts (per 6×6, 8–10 ft) | $25 | $40 | $90 | Unfinished cedar or select grades vary by length |
| Delivery | $5 | $15 | $60 | Based on distance and quantity |
| Installation/Labor | $0 | $40 | $120 | Assumes basic setting; higher with concrete or setting in difficult ground |
| Concrete & Footings | $10 | $25 | $120 | Auger or mixed concrete depending on design |
| Permits & Fees | $0 | $25 | $150 | Local rules may apply for fences or structures |
| Waste/Disposal & Accessories | $0 | $5 | $25 | Fasteners, caps, or protective coatings |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Typical price channels for a cedar 6×6 post include the raw material price per post, delivery, and any installation expenses. For a single untreated 6×6 post around 8–10 ft, estimate $25–$60 in materials, with lower costs for unfinished or economy grades and higher costs for premium red cedar or longer lengths. When installation is included, total project costs commonly range from $75 to $260 per post depending on footing, concrete, and labor needs.
Per-unit ranges show a materials-only band of $25–$90 per post and a full install band of $75–$260 per post. The spread reflects length (8–12 ft), grade (ordinary vs. premium), and whether delivery is bundled or charged separately. Consistent budgeting should consider both per-post and per-project calculations.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $25 | $40 | $90 | 6×6 cedar, length 8–10 ft, unfinished or select grade |
| Labor | $0 | $40 | $120 | Installation time varies by soil, access, and method |
| Equipment | $0 | $5 | $20 | Tools or rental for setting posts |
| Permits | $0 | $25 | $150 | Depends on local codes and fencing rules |
| Delivery | $5 | $15 | $60 | Distance-based; bundled delivery may reduce cost |
| Warranty | $0 | $5 | $25 | Material defects or treatment claims |
| Contingency | $0 | $5 | $20 | Set aside for unexpected ground conditions |
Factors That Affect Price
Length and grade are primary price levers. Longer posts (12 ft vs 8 ft) proportionally increase material and handling costs. Cedar grade affects durability and appearance; premium heartwood or red cedar commands higher per-post pricing. Additionally, how the posts are mounted (direct set, concrete footings, or steel brackets) changes labor and equipment needs.
Installation method drives the final cost. Simple hand-set installations with minimal equipment stay near the low end, while yard access, hard soil, or need for auger rental pushes costs higher. The local climate can also influence maintenance plans, affecting long-term costs.
Regional differences influence pricing due to transportation, local demand, and labor rates. Availability of untreated vs. treated cedar and seasonal demand patterns can shift quotes by a noticeable margin.
Ways To Save
Buy in bulk for multiple posts to leverage volume discounts on material and delivery. If the project allows, opting for a uniform length (e.g., 8 ft) can simplify logistics and reduce waste.
Combine delivery with other materials to lower per-post delivery costs. Coordinating several items in one order often reduces freight charges and improves scheduling efficiency.
DIY installation where feasible lowers labor costs, especially for straightforward fence or deck projects. Use proper safety practices and check local codes before proceeding.
Regional Price Differences
Urban, Suburban, Rural price bands differ. Urban areas may see higher delivery and labor charges but more consistent material supply. Suburban regions often balance reasonable labor rates with mid-tier material options. Rural settings can save on labor but incur higher delivery costs due to distance. Expect delta ranges of roughly ±15%–35% between regions depending on demand and proximity to mills.
Local market variations reflect cedar species availability and seasonal demand. In peak construction months, prices can spike due to tight supply, while off-season pricing may offer smaller discounts.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Assumptions: 8–10 ft posts, unfinished cedar, standard spacing, basic footings.
Basic: 8 ft post, no footing, no installation labor; 6 posts. Materials: $200; Delivery: $20; Taxes: $15. Total: $235.
Mid-Range: 10 ft posts with simple concrete footings, minimal labor; 6 posts. Materials: $360; Delivery: $40; Labor: $160; Permits: $0. Total: $560.
Premium: 12 ft premium red cedar with reinforced footings, professional installation; 6 posts. Materials: $540; Delivery: $60; Labor: $360; Permits: $50. Total: $1,010.
Cost Drivers To Watch
Post length directly affects material weight and handling time. Longer posts require stronger equipment and more concrete or reinforcement, increasing both material and labor costs. Shorter posts reduce overall expense but may impact structural requirements.
Material quality Sanctioned grades and species variation matter. Premium cedar offers better durability and appearance but at a higher price. Budget-friendly options may rely on more common grades with shorter service life.
5-Year Cost Outlook
Maintenance costs for cedar can include sealants or stain every 2–3 years to preserve appearance and longevity. Annual maintenance costs are typically modest, but major repairs may be required if moisture exposure or soil conditions cause decay. Plan for a higher replacement risk on ground-contact posts in damp climates.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.