DeckMath
All budgets
Under $5,000 · all 20 sizes

Under $5,000 Deck Build

Entry-level professional install or generous DIY. Fits a 10×12 or 12×12 PT deck with simple wood railing + a 3-step stair. The most-searched deck budget bracket.

Recommended: pt · wood rail
Typical builds at this budget

10×12 to 12×12 PT pine deck with wood baluster railing + stair to grade. Pro-installed with permit. About 60% of US single-family deck builds fit this budget at standard sizing.

Budget cuts (if over)

Stick to PT (skip cedar + composite). Use 4×4 posts not 6×6 (smaller tributary). Wood balusters not composite. Skip picture-frame border + premium decking. Take 3 contractor bids — the spread on small decks is 25-40%.

Pick your deck size — see what fits under $5,000

Open the calculator pre-loaded for under $5,000

The full deck cost calculator dials in your exact size + material + railing + stair + state labor multiplier for a real quote-ready number.