Cost to Build a Deck in California (2025) – Full Price Breakdown

Building a deck in California adds useful outdoor space and can increase property value. Whether you’re planning a small wooden deck or a large composite structure, knowing the cost to build a deck in California helps you set a budget. Several factors influence pricing, including materials, labor, permits, and design choices.

This guide covers:

Cost per square foot
Wood vs. composite deck pricing
Labor and permit fees
Ways to cut costs on deck construction

Key takeaways:

The cost of building a deck in California ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on size and materials.
Wood decks are cheaper upfront but need more upkeep than composite decks.
Labor costs vary between $10 and $30 per square foot, depending on the project.
Permits are required for decks over 30 inches high, with fees depending on location.
Homeowners can lower costs by choosing simple designs, comparing quotes, or handling small tasks themselves.

How much does it cost to build a deck?

The total price of a deck depends on size, material, labor, and complexity. While smaller decks cost less, larger ones need more materials and labor, increasing overall expenses.

Deck cost per square foot and total project cost:

Most deck projects in California fall between $5,000 and $20,000. The table below gives an estimate based on deck size and material type.
Deck Size Wood Deck Cost Composite Deck Cost

Small (10×10 ft) $5,000 – $7,500 $7,000 – $10,000
Medium (12×16 ft) $8,000 – $12,000 $10,000 – $15,000
Large (16×20 ft) $15,000 – $20,000 $18,000 – $25,000

What affects deck pricing?

Several things influence how much your deck will cost:
Material choice – Composite decking costs more upfront but lasts longer.
Labor fees – Hiring a professional adds to the total cost.
Permit requirements – Decks over a certain height require permits.
Extra features – Railings, stairs, and lighting increase expenses.

Wood vs. composite decking costs:

Different decking materials come with varying prices, durability, and maintenance needs. Deciding between wood and composite decking impacts both initial and long-term costs.
Wood deck pricing and maintenance
Wood is a common choice because it looks natural and costs less upfront. However, it needs regular maintenance to prevent weather damage, rot, and insect issues.
Wood Type Cost per Sq. Ft. Pros & Cons
Pressure-Treated Lumber $15 – $25 Affordable but needs frequent sealing
Redwood $25 – $40 Durable and attractive but expensive
Cedar $20 – $35 Resists rot but dents more easily
Applying stains and sealants every 1-2 years helps keep wood decks in good shape.
Composite deck pricing and long-term benefits
Composite decking, such as Trex or Fiberon, is made from wood fibers and plastic, making it durable and low-maintenance.
Composite Type Cost per Sq. Ft. Pros & Cons
Basic Composite $30 – $45 Lasts longer than wood but costs more
Premium Composite $50 – $60 Extremely durable but expensive
Composite decks don’t need staining or sealing, reducing maintenance costs over time.

Labor costs for deck installation in California:

If you hire a professional deck builder, expect labor costs between $10 and $30 per square foot. The final price depends on size, design, and add-ons.
How labor costs add to deck pricing
Professional labor makes up 30-50% of the total project cost. Labor fees vary based on:
Deck size – Larger decks require more work.
Multi-level vs. single-level decks – Complex structures increase costs.
Adding railings or stairs – These features take extra time and materials.
Finding the right contractor

To make sure you’re getting fair pricing and quality work, consider:

Getting at least three estimates from local builders.
Checking licenses and insurance before hiring.
Asking what’s included (permits, cleanup, and additional fees).

Are permits required to build a deck in California?

Most California cities require permits for decks higher than 30 inches. If you don’t get a permit, you risk fines or having to rebuild.
Permit fees by city
Permit costs depend on where you live:
Roseville: $150 – $500
Folsom: $200 – $600
Sacramento County: $250 – $700
Hiring a licensed contractor can help with the permit process and ensure everything meets building codes.

Ways to save money on your deck project:

There are several ways to cut costs when building a deck, whether you’re hiring a contractor or doing it yourself.
Choosing budget-friendly materials and designs
Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option.
A simple design without curves or extra levels reduces costs.
Pre-made or DIY railings can lower material and labor expenses.

DIY vs. hiring a contractor: 

Cost comparison
Building a deck yourself saves money, but it requires tools, experience, and time. Below is a cost comparison between DIY and professional installation.
Factor DIY Deck Cost Professional Installation Cost
Materials $5,000 – $12,000 Included in estimate
Labor $0 (Your Time) $3,000 – $10,000
Permits $150 – $700 Handled by contractor
Tools $500 – $1,500 Included
Total Cost $5,500 – $14,000 $10,000 – $25,000
DIY projects can cut labor costs by 30-50%, but they take longer and require more effort.

Get a free deck quote in California

Still not sure about your deck budget? Get a free estimate from local experts.
Call: (123) 456-7890
Serving: Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom & nearby areas
Request a Free Estimate Today!