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Estimated Cost of Retaining Walls

CMU Block (Concrete Masonry Unit) Walls

  • Cost Range: $45 – $85 per linear foot (for standard 4'–6' tall walls)
  • Higher End: Walls over 6' tall with reinforced footings and decorative finishes can reach $100 – $150 per linear foot.
  • Best For: Flat lots, property lines, moderate slopes.

Poured-in-Place Concrete Walls

  • Cost Range: $90 – $150 per linear foot (4'–6' tall walls)
  • Higher End: For tall engineered walls (over 8'–10'), costs can run $180 – $250 per linear foot due to formwork, rebar, and labor intensity.
  • Best For: Heavy-duty hillside stabilization, modern architectural designs.

Shotcrete Retaining Walls (Sprayed Concrete)

  • Cost Range: $70 – $120 per linear foot (4'–6' tall walls)
  • Higher End: For engineered walls over 10' tall with structural rebar cages, shotcrete walls can cost $150 – $200 per linear foot.
  • Best For: Steep hillside projects where access is limited and formwork isn’t practical.

Additional Cost Factors

  • Engineering & Permits: $2,000 – $6,000 depending on wall height and soil conditions.
  • Drainage Systems: $20 – $40 per linear foot for gravel, pipes, and weep holes.
  • Access Limitations: Narrow hillside access may require smaller equipment or handwork, increasing labor costs by 10–25%.
  • Finishes: Stucco, stone veneer, or decorative caps can add $15 – $40 per linear foot.
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