Retaining Wall Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of installing a new retaining wall based on dimensions and material choice.
Retaining walls typically cost between $4,000 and $10,000 for average residential projects, or $20–$60 per square foot. The final price heavily depends on the wall height, length, and materials chosen.
Calculate Your Estimate
Project Location
Choose which state the project is located.
Wall Dimensions
Enter the length and height of the wall.
Material Choice:
Additional Features:
Why Use Our Retaining Wall Calculator?
Planning a hardscape project requires accurate material and labor estimates. Our calculator considers the critical dimensions (Length × Height) and material tiers to give you a realistic budget. It also helps you factor in essential add-ons like drainage and old wall removal.
Manually Calculating Retaining Wall Costs
To estimate manually:
- Calculate Square Footage: Multiply Length (ft) × Height (ft). Example: 20ft long × 3ft high = 60 sq ft.
- Choose Material Cost: Wood (~$25/sf), Block (~$35/sf), Stone (~$55/sf).
- Add Engineering Fees: If the wall is >4ft high, add ~$500-$1000 for engineering.
- Add Drainage/Backfill: Add about 10-15% for gravel and drainage pipe costs.
Manual Calculation Formula:
(Length × Height) × Material_Rate_Per_SF = Base Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a retaining wall cost per sq ft?
Costs typically range from $20 to $60 per square foot depending on the material (wood is cheapest, natural stone is most expensive).
Do I need an engineer?
Usually, walls over 4 feet tall require structural engineering and a permit. Check local codes.
What is the longest lasting material?
Poured concrete and natural stone lasts the longest (50-100+ years). Wood timbers may only last 10-20 years.
Is drainage necessary?
Yes! Hydrostatic pressure from water is the #1 cause of retaining wall failure. Gravel backfill and perforated pipe are essential.
Can I build it myself?
Small landscaped walls (<2ft) are DIY-friendly. Larger walls usually require heavy machinery and expertise.
Do I need a building permit?
Most walls over 3-4 feet require a permit and engineering plans. Always check local zoning.
What is the cheapest material?
Treated timber is usually the cheapest upfront but has the shortest lifespan (10-15 years).
Can I put a fence on top?
Yes, but the wall typically needs to be engineered to support the extra wind load of the fence.
How do I prevent failure?
Proper drainage (gravel backfill and weep holes) is critical to prevent water pressure from pushing the wall over.
What is a gravity wall?
A wall that relies on its own weight and setback to hold back soil, common for shorter heights.