Cost to Install a Retaining Wall

January 2024

Retaining Wall Installation CalculatorZip Code
Square Feet*
Item detailsQtyLow  High
Retaining Wall Cost 
Non-discounted retail pricing for: Dry Stack Stone interlocking block wall. Average 1.25 blocks per SF wall face. 3' above grade max height. Quantity includes typical waste overage, material for repair and local delivery.
129 square feet$2,157.36$3,255.04
Retaining Wall Installation Labor, Basic 
Basic labor to install retaining wall with favorable site conditions. Excavate up to 0.3m/1ft below grade. Set and compact gravel base. Set and level base blocks. Install filter fabric between wall and soil. Stack interlocking, dry fit blocks to no more than 8 courses tall, including cap block. This estimate is for a NON-STRUCTURAL wall NO HIGHER THAN 1m/3ft above grade! Includes planning, equipment and material acquisition, area preparation and protection, setup and cleanup.
129 square feet$2,157.36$3,255.04
Retaining Wall Installation Job Supplies 
Cost of related materials and supplies typically required to install retaining wall including: cutting and grinding consumables, mortar and reinforcement.
129 square feet$2,157.36$3,255.04
Retaining Wall Installation Equipment Allowance
Job related costs of specialty equipment used for job quality and efficiency, including: 115 V wet masonry saw, 5 cubic foot mortar box and small plate compactor. Daily rental. Consumables extra.
129 square feet$2,157.36$3,255.04
 Unused Minimum Labor
Balance of 2 hr(s) minimum labor charge that can be applied to other tasks.
   
Totals - Cost To Install Retaining Wall   
Average Cost per Square Foot  
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In January 2024 the cost to Install a Retaining Wall starts at $32.93 - $45.35 per square foot*. Use our Cost Calculator for cost estimate examples customized to the location, size and options of your project.

To estimate costs for your project:

1. Set Project Zip Code Enter the Zip Code for the location where labor is hired and materials purchased.

2. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of "square feet" required for the project.

3. Re-calculate Click the "Update" button.


NOTE: *Input the total of the finished surface area AND the area of any openings enclosed by the finished area.



 


Unit Costs = Successful Projects

Homewyse uses the Unit Cost Method for up-to-date example estimates and custom estimates created with Homewyse Lists. The Unit Cost Method promotes clear communication, sets realistic expectations between the customer and service professional - and results in mutual trust, fair pricing and high customer satisfaction.


Cost to Install a Retaining Wall - Notes and General Information

This example estimate is for BASIC work performed in easily serviceable conditions by qualified trade professionals, using popular, IN STOCK products, materials and supplies commonly available at home improvement retailers. Your actual costs will vary due to the unique situation, requirements and choices of your project. Work not mentioned on this page, work with schedule difficulty, and work using master craftsman, premium materials, custom built products and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS!

This example estimate is for educational and illustrative purposes - it is NOT a substitute for written quotes from trade professionals. Homewyse strongly recommends that you contact reputable professionals for accurate assessments of work required and costs for your project - before making any decisions or commitments.

The cost estimate includes:

  • Costs for local material / equipment delivery to and service provider transportation to and from the job site.
  • Costs to prepare the worksite for Retaining Wall Installation, including costs to protect existing structure(s), finishes, materials and components.
  • Labor planning and setup time, mobilization time, cleanup time and as appropriate, time needed to achieve minimum job hours agreed to before work begins.

The cost estimate does NOT include:

  • Labor upcharges associated with master/premium craftsmanship, expedited scheduling, local labor shortages, difficult or complex site conditions, excessive transit times, service provider pricing discretion and failure of customer to negotiate labor costs.
  • Costs for removing, relocating, repairing, or modifying existing framing, surfacing (including molding), HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems - or bringing any systems into compliance with current building codes.
  • Costs for testing and remediation of hazardous materials (asbestos, lead, etc.).
  • General contractor overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the Retaining Wall Installation. Add 13% to 22% to the total cost above if a general contractor will supervise this project.
  • Sales tax on materials and supplies.
  • Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project.

References - Retaining Wall Installation

Retaining Wall Installation Budget Management

Retaining Wall Installation Cost Infographic - critical areas of budget risk and savings

This infographic highlights decisions and site issues that can cause large cost variances in the typical Retaining Wall Installation budget.


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