Deck cost in Seattle, WA (2026)
Planning a deck in Seattle? Here is what decks typically cost, what is different about building one in Seattle, and how to get a price range for your own yard in about two minutes.
Short answer
Using typical national ranges from published 2026 cost guides (the same sample rates as our calculator), an installed deck runs about $28 to $55 per square foot in pressure-treated wood, $45 to $78 in composite, and $58 to $95 in PVC or premium composite, from ground level up to a walkout or second-story deck. Railing and stairs are extra.
These are not Seattle prices. We do not have Seattle price data and we do not make up a local average. A local builder sets the real price after seeing your yard, height, footings, access and permit needs.
Typical deck costs by size and height
These worked examples come from the same estimator as the deck cost calculator, using national sample rates:
| Deck | Height | Pressure-treated wood | Composite | PVC / premium composite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 x 16 ft (192 sq ft) | At ground level | $4,550 to $6,200 | $7,350 to $9,950 | $9,450 to $12,800 |
| 12 x 16 ft (192 sq ft) | A few steps up | $6,700 to $9,100 | $9,650 to $13,050 | $11,950 to $16,150 |
| 16 x 20 ft (320 sq ft) | Raised | $17,100 to $23,150 | $22,550 to $30,500 | $26,900 to $36,400 |
| 16 x 20 ft (320 sq ft) | Walkout or second story | $23,550 to $31,900 | $29,800 to $40,350 | $34,450 to $46,600 |
Examples assume one side against the house, black aluminum railing where railing is required, and stairs on the raised examples. Typical national ranges, not a quote.
Installed price per square foot (national sample rates)
| Height | Pressure-treated wood | Composite | PVC / premium composite |
|---|---|---|---|
| At ground level Under 2 ft · 0-2 steps | $28 | $45 | $58 |
| A few steps up About 2-4 ft off the ground | $34 | $52 | $66 |
| Raised About 4-6 ft off the ground | $42 | $62 | $78 |
| Walkout or second story About 6-12 ft, off an upper door | $55 | $78 | $95 |
What is different about building a deck in Seattle
- In Seattle you need a permit for a deck that is more than 18 inches above the ground, is a roof deck, or is in an environmentally critical area (ECA) such as a landslide-prone or flood-prone area. (SDCI: Decks)
- Most decks need only a subject-to-field-inspection (STFI) construction permit rather than full plan review. (SDCI: Decks, SDCI Tip 316: STFI permits (PDF))
- SDCI Tip 312 covers decks, fences and arbors for single-family homes in Seattle. (SDCI Tip 312)
Permit office: Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI), see SDCI's Decks page. Rules change, so confirm with the office before you build. Facts checked October 27, 2026.
Climate and materials in Seattle
Seattle's weather is mild but wet for much of the year, with long stretches of rain and fewer hard freezes than inland cities. Rot, moss and algae are the main problems for wood decks. Drainage, good spacing between boards, sealed cut ends and boards that resist moisture all matter, which is a big reason homeowners here compare composite and PVC.
Lots, slopes and deck height
Seattle is hilly, and many homes sit on slopes with view decks off an upper floor. Those decks fall in the "Raised" or "Walkout or second story" height levels. Steep or landslide-prone lots can be environmentally critical areas, which means a permit even for a low deck.
When to plan
Builders work much of the year, but rain slows framing and finishing, so drier months book up. Getting a budget and quotes early helps.
Draw your deck and see a price range
Find your home on the satellite map, tap the corners of your deck, pick the height and materials, and see typical ranges for wood, composite and PVC side by side. Free, no sign-up, no contact details, nothing saved.
Open the deck cost calculatorHow to use these numbers
- Use the range to set a budget before you call builders, not as a price to hold anyone to.
- Height is the biggest lever. Measure from the ground to the door threshold where the deck will attach.
- Ask each builder whether the quote includes the permit, footings, railing, stairs and removal of any old deck, so you compare like with like.
Deck builders in Seattle
QuoteDecking puts this estimator on your own website with your prices, and each homeowner's drawing and estimate come to you as a lead. Starter $49/mo, Pro $99/mo. 30-day free trial, no card needed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a deck in Seattle?
Yes if any part is more than 18 inches above the ground, if it is a roof deck, or if it is in an environmentally critical area. Most decks need only a subject-to-field-inspection permit.
What is a subject-to-field-inspection permit?
An SDCI permit type for simpler projects where the work is checked in the field instead of through full plan review. See SDCI Tip 316.
Which deck material holds up best in Seattle rain?
It depends on budget and upkeep. Composite and PVC resist moisture with less maintenance. Wood costs less up front but needs regular cleaning and sealing.
Is this what a deck costs in Seattle?
The ranges are typical national ranges from published 2026 cost guides, not Seattle price data. A local builder sets the real price after seeing your yard.
Sources
- https://seattle.gov/sdci/permits/common-projects/decks
- https://www.seattle.gov/dpd/Publications/cam/cam316.pdf
- https://web.seattle.gov/dpd/cams/CamDetail.aspx?cn=312
Prices are typical national ranges from published 2026 cost guides, not Seattle prices or a quote. Local permit facts are summarized from the official pages above. Deck cost in other cities.