How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost?
Quick Answer
A retaining wall runs about $20 to $60 per square foot of wall face installed. Segmental block sits at the low end, poured concrete and natural stone at the high end. DIY block materials run roughly $10 to $15 per square foot of face.
- Segmental block: $20–$35 per sq ft installed
- Poured concrete: $30–$50 per sq ft installed
- Natural stone: $40–$60+ per sq ft installed
- DIY block materials only: $10–$15 per sq ft of wall face
Formula
Multiply the wall length by its height to get the face area in square feet, then multiply by the installed cost per square foot for your chosen material.
Step-by-Step Calculation
- 1
Find the wall face area
Example: 20 ft long × 3 ft high = 60 sq ft of face
- 2
Pick a cost per sq ft
Block installed ≈ $28 per sq ft
- 3
Multiply
60 × $28 = $1,680 installed
- 4
Add drainage and base
Budget 10–15% extra for gravel, pipe, and permits
Retaining Wall Cost by Material (per sq ft of face)
| Material | Installed | DIY Materials | 60 Sq Ft Wall (installed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Segmental block | $20–$35 | $10–$15 | $1,200–$2,100 |
| Poured concrete | $30–$50 | $15–$25 | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Natural stone | $40–$60+ | $20–$35 | $2,400–$3,600+ |
| Timber | $15–$25 | $8–$12 | $900–$1,500 |
*Face area = wall length × wall height. Excludes major excavation or engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a taller wall so much more expensive?
Cost scales with face area, and taller walls also need deeper footings, more backfill, and often engineering. Walls over 4 feet usually require a permit and engineered design, which adds several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Is DIY worth it for a retaining wall?
For a low block wall under 3 feet, DIY can cut the cost roughly in half since labor is the biggest line item. Above 4 feet, hire a pro — the structural risk and permit requirements outweigh the savings.
What adds cost beyond the blocks?
Gravel base and backfill, a perforated drain pipe, geogrid reinforcement on taller walls, excavation, and permit or engineering fees. Together these commonly add 10–20% over the block material cost.