Cost of Treated Lumber: Price Guide for U.S. Buyers 2026
Treated lumber costs vary based on wood species, treatment level, and project size. The main cost drivers are material grade, treatment method, and delivery distance. This guide presents cost estimates in USD with clear low–average–high ranges and practical pricing context for typical residential use.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treated Lumber (1 x 6, #2 Southern Pine, ACQ-treated) | $1.20 | $1.60 | $2.10 | Per linear foot for framing stock |
| 2x4s (8 ft) | $2.20 | $3.00 | $4.00 | Ground-contact grade |
| Decking Boards (5/4×6, pressure-treated) | $2.50 | $3.60 | $5.50 | Common decking width |
| Posts (4×4, 8 ft) | $5.00 | $7.50 | $9.50 | Ground-contact; common spacing |
| Delivery/Haul-Away | $60 | $140 | $350 | Distance-based surcharge |
| Labor (installation) | $40/hr | $60/hr | $85/hr | Crew rate; typical 1–2 workers |
Costs shown are representative ranges for typical residential projects in the United States. Prices reflect common treatment types (ACQ or CCA availability varies regionally) and standard board spacing. Assumptions include average-sized orders, local delivery within 30 miles, and standard weatherproofing practices.
Overview Of Costs
Treated lumber projects typically blend material costs with labor and delivery charges. The total project price depends on the total board feet or linear feet needed, the width and thickness of boards, and the treatment method. For framing, expect lower per-foot material costs; for outdoor decks, higher decking and fastener costs apply. Assumptions: region, project scope, and delivery distance influence final figures.
Cost Breakdown
The following table breaks down common cost components for treated lumber jobs. It shows totals plus a per-unit reference where relevant. Other fees may apply for specialty treatments or expedited delivery.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $200 | $900 | $2,200 | Includes boards, posts, and decking where applicable |
| Labor | $300 | $1,000 | $3,000 | Assumes 1–2 workers, 1–3 days |
| Equipment | $0 | $60 | $200 | Rental or tool usage |
| Permits | $0 | $50 | $300 | Municipal requirements may apply |
| Delivery/Disposal | $60 | $140 | $350 | Distance-based |
| Warranty | $0 | $25 | $100 | Material warranty period varies |
| Overhead | $50 | $150 | $400 | Shop/crew overhead |
| Taxes | $0 | $60 | $180 | Sales tax based on location |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
What Drives Price
Treated lumber pricing is influenced by wood species, thickness, and the level of protection. Higher-grade boards and thicker decking cost more due to additional raw material and longer processing times. Regional timber markets, seasonal demand, and supply chain disruptions can shift both material and delivery prices. For example, deck projects typically incur higher decking board costs than simple framing because of width and wear resistance.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across the United States. In Coastal urban areas, labor and delivery tend to be higher than in rural zones, while material availability can shift depending on regional mills and treatment facilities. Expect roughly ±10–25% differences between three sample regions—Coast, Inland, and South/Moutnain zones—driven by shipping costs and local tax bases. Assumptions: region, market conditions, delivery distance.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor rates for treated lumber projects range from about $40 to $85 per hour, depending on crew size and local wages. A typical deck or framing job might involve 8–40 hours of labor, translating to $320–$3,400 in labor costs. Labor efficiency and crew experience materially affect the final price.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can include fasteners and protective coatings, moisture barriers, moisture meters, and off-cuts disposal. Delivery surcharges for remote sites or weekend crews can add 10–30% to the order. Assumes standard fasteners and corrosion-resistant hardware.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate common ranges. Each scenario uses the same treated lumber base but shifts board counts and labor needs.
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Basic — 120 linear feet of 2×4 framing, ACQ-treated; 1 worker for 6–8 hours; delivery within 20 miles. Materials: $360; Labor: $320; Delivery: $70; Total: about $750–$1,000.
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Mid-Range — 280 linear feet of 2×6 decking in pressure-treated stock; 2 workers for 1–2 days; delivery within 30 miles. Materials: $1,100; Labor: $1,000; Delivery: $120; Total: about $2,200–$2,900.
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Premium — 350 linear feet of 5/4 decking plus posts and rails; thicker boards and premium fasteners; 2–3 days with a crew of 3. Materials: $2,200; Labor: $2,400; Delivery: $180; Total: about $4,500–$6,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.