| Option | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $1,750–$3,500 |
| Cedar / redwood | $3,150–$6,300 |
| Vinyl / fiberglass | $4,200–$8,400 |
| Aluminum | $5,600–$11,200 |
Compare providers near you
| Material | 10x10 ft | 12x16 ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $2,000–$4,000 | $3,500–$7,000 | 10–15 years |
| Cedar | $3,000–$6,000 | $5,000–$10,000 | 15–25 years |
| Vinyl/PVC | $3,500–$7,000 | $6,000–$12,000 | 25–30 years |
| Aluminum | $4,000–$8,000 | $7,000–$14,000 | 30+ years |
| Fiberglass | $5,000–$10,000 | $8,000–$18,000 | 30+ years |
A motorized louvered pergola ($8,000–$20,000) with adjustable roof slats is the premium option — open for sun, close for shade or rain. Adding a ceiling fan ($200–$500), string lights ($50–$200), and outdoor curtains ($100–$400) turns a basic pergola into a true outdoor living room.
The cost of pergola depends on several interconnected factors that can shift the final number significantly in either direction. Material quality is typically the largest variable — the gap between standard and premium options can double or triple the total project cost. Labor rates vary by region, with major metros running 30–50% higher than rural areas for identical work.
Project scope is the other major cost driver. What seems like a simple project can escalate quickly once walls are opened or existing conditions are revealed. This is why experienced contractors build contingency into their estimates, and why homeowners should too. The most common budget-breaker is changing the scope mid-project, which resets timelines and pricing.