Key Takeaways:
- Cost Per Square Foot: $20 – $50
- Cost Per Linear Foot (2’ to 6’ tall): $40 – $300
- Average Total Cost (50’ long wall): $4,000 – $10,000
Retaining walls are essential structures in landscaping and construction, providing support to soil laterally so that it can be retained at different levels on both sides. They can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of outdoor spaces but come at various costs depending on the materials used, height, length, and complexity of installation.
Retaining Wall Cost
The cost of a retaining wall varies significantly. To help understand this better, let’s consider the cost per linear foot and by height.
| Linear feet | 2’ tall | 4’ tall | 6’ tall |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10′ | $400 – $1,000 | $800 – $2,000 | $1,200 – $3,000 |
| 15′ | $600 – $1,500 | $1,200 – $3,000 | $1,800 – $4,500 |
| 25′ | $1,000 – $2,500 | $2,000 – $5,000 | $3,000 – $7,500 |
| 50′ | $2,000 – $5,000 | $4,000 – $10,000 | $6,000 – $15,000 |
| 100′ | $4,000 – $10,000 | $8,000 – $20,000 | $12,000 – $30,000 |
| 150′ | $6,000 – $15,000 | $12,000 – $30,000 | $18,000 – $45,000 |
| 200′ | $8,000 – $20,000 | $16,000 – $40,000 | $24,000 – $60,000 |
Cost to Build a Retaining Wall by Type
Different materials come with varying costs. Here are some common materials and associated costs per square foot:
| Wall Material | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Wood | $10 – $40 |
| Stone | $10 – $85 |
| Block | $15 – $55 |
| Metal | $15 – $150 |
| Concrete | $20 – $45 |
| Brick | $30 – $60 |
Retaining Wall Cost Per Square Foot
When broken down per square foot, the costs for various wall types can be summarized as follows:
| Wall Type | Total Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Cinder block (CMU) | $20 – $35 |
| Poured concrete | $20 – $45 |
| Rammed earth | $20 – $30 |
| Precast panels | $25 – $40 |
| Interlocking modular | $15 – $35 |
| Brick | $30 – $60 |
| Lock and load | $25 – $55 |
| Large concrete blocks | $20 – $45 |
| Dry stack stone | $20 – $85 |
| Boulder rock | $25 – $50 |
| Gabion | $10 – $40 |
| Wood and timber | $10 – $40 |
| Railroad tie | $20 – $30 |
| COR-TEN® steel | $35 – $135 |
| I-beam | $35 – $150 |
| Sheet piling | $15 – $30 |
| Stone veneer wall | $30 – $80 |
| Landscaping wall | $15 – $30 |
| Driveway retaining wall | $30 – $60 |
| Seawall | $50 – $100 |
Cost to Build a Retaining Wall by Height
Height plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Here is a breakdown by height per linear foot:
| Height (Feet) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| 4′ | $80 – $200 |
| 6′ | $120 – $300 |
| 8′ | $160 – $400 |
| 10′ | $200 – $500 |
| 20′ | $400 – $1,000 |
Timber or Wood Retaining Wall Cost
Wooden retaining walls can offer a natural look. Here are the associated costs:
| Wood Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Wood and timber | $10 – $40 |
| Railroad tie | $20 – $30 |
Railroad-Tie Retaining Wall Cost
Railroad ties are a popular choice due to their durability and unique appearance, priced at $20 – $30 per square foot.
Block, Brick, or Concrete Retaining Wall Cost
Block, brick, and concrete are common materials with varying costs:
| Wall Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Poured concrete | $20 – $45 |
| Concrete cinder blocks (CMU) | $20 – $35 |
| Interlocking concrete blocks | $15 – $35 |
| Bricks | $30 – $60 |
| Lock + Load brand blocks | $25 – $55 |
| Large concrete blocks (2’ to 6’ wide) | $20 – $45 |
| Rammed-earth mix | $20 – $30 |
| Precast panels | $25 – $40 |
Cinder Block Retaining Wall Cost
Cinder blocks offer a cost-effective and sturdy option:
| Wall Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cinder block (CMU) | $20 – $35 per sq ft |
Brick Retaining Wall Cost
Bricks for retaining walls are priced between $30 – $60 per square foot.
Rammed Earth / Earth Chalk Retaining Wall Prices
Rammed earth retaining walls provide an earthy aesthetic, costing $20 – $30 per square foot.
Stone Retaining Wall Cost
Stone retaining walls are appreciated for their natural beauty and durability. Here are some examples:
| Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Dry-stack stone | $20 – $85 | Fieldstone, limestone, installed without mortar |
| Boulder rock | $25 – $50 | Typically less than 4’ tall |
| Gabion | $10 – $40 | Rock-filled wire boxes, adaptable |
Metal or Steel Retaining Wall Cost
Metal retaining walls offer a modern look:
| Metal Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Corten steel | $35 – $135 |
| I-beam | $35 – $150 |
| Sheet piling | $15 – $50 |
COR-TEN Steel Retaining Wall Cost
COR-TEN steel walls are both durable and visually stringent, costing $35 – $135 per square foot.
I-Beam Retaining Wall Cost
I-Beam walls offer strong support and durability at $35 – $150 per square foot.
Sheet-Piling Retaining Wall Cost
Sheet piling is often used for battling water or holding back soil, priced at $15 – $50 per square foot.
Cost Factors to Install a Retaining Wall
Several factors can influence the final cost, including labor, materials, site conditions, and wall design.
Retaining Wall Labor Cost
Labor costs can vary but generally:
| Labor Type | Labor Cost |
|---|---|
| Per hour | $40 – $80 |
| Per square foot | $10 – $30 |
Retaining Wall Blocks and Materials Prices
Different materials have varying prices. Here’s a list for reference:
| Material | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Cinder blocks (CMU) | $2 – $3 |
| Interlocking concrete blocks | $4 – $20 |
| Large concrete blocks | $6 – $8 |
| Poured concrete | $4 – $7 |
| Wood / timber / railroad ties | $6 – $10 |
| Boulder rock | $15 – $35 |
| Stacked stone | $10 – $45 |
| Stone veneer | $6 – $24 |
| Gabion (Aggregate) | $5 – $20 |
| Brick | $4 – $9 |
| Steel / metal | $10 – $20 |
| Rammed earth / chalk | $10 – $15 |
Cost of Building a Retaining Wall on a Slope
Building on a slope can significantly impact costs:
| Terrain | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Flat land | $20 – $50 |
| Moderate slope | $25 – $75 |
| Steep hill | $40 – $100 |
Retaining Wall Finishing Costs
Finishing a retaining wall can add to the overall aesthetic:
| Finish Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Stone veneer | $10 – $45 |
| Brick veneer | $8 – $18 |
| Granite | $19 – $45 |
| Slate | $15 – $35 |
| Stucco | $3 – $9 |
Cost to Rebuild or Replace a Retaining Wall
Rebuilding or replacing a retaining wall involves several costs:
| Work Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Remove old wall | $10 – $20 |
| Install new wall | $20 – $50 |
| Total | $30 – $70 |
Retaining Wall Repair Cost
Repairing may be a cost-effective alternative, depending on the damage.
Retaining Wall Cost Estimator by Location
Location influences the cost due to different environmental factors and requirements:
| Wall Type | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Landscaping wall (1.0’ to 1.5’ tall) | $15 – $45 |
| Driveway retaining wall (1’ to 2’ tall) | $30 – $120 |
| Seawall (3’ to 6’ tall) | $150 – $600 |
DIY Retention Wall Cost
Considering a DIY approach? The costs might be lower but factor in the complexity and potential structural risks.
Retaining Wall FAQs
How Long Do Retaining Walls Last?
The lifespan of a retaining wall varies by material:
| Wall Material | Lifespan (Years) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | 50 – 100 |
| Stone | 50 – 200 |
| Metal | 20 – 40 |
| Wood | 10 – 40 |
How High Can a Retaining Wall Be?
Typically, the height can range from a few feet to several meters, depending on local regulations and engineering requirements.
Do Retaining Walls Add Value?
Yes, well-constructed retaining walls can increase property value by enhancing usability and aesthetics of outdoor spaces.
When Do You Need to Build a Retaining Wall?
Retaining walls are necessary to prevent soil erosion, provide functional space, and manage water drainage on sloped land.
Hiring Retaining Wall Builders
Choosing professional builders ensures structural integrity and compliance with codes.
Questions to Ask
When hiring, ask about:
- Experience and past projects
- Insurance and bonding
- Permits and regulations
- Estimated timelines and costs
- Material warranties and maintenance guidance
Understanding these aspects will help you make informed decisions, ensuring your retaining wall meets both aesthetic and functional needs.
