How Much Does Automatic Driveway Gate Installation Cost in 2025?

Normal Range: $2,500 - $5,000

This project can cost anywhere from $750 to $11,000, so take a look at what could affect this price and get a quote from a pro.

How we get this data
iron security gate at the end of driveway of home
Photo: hutchyb / E+ / Getty Images
iron security gate at the end of driveway of home
Photo: hutchyb / E+ / Getty Images
Highlights

  • Most homeowners spend $2,500 and $5,000 on an automatic driveway gate

  • You may need to hire multiple pros, depending on the type of gate you choose and the complexity of the installation.

  • Common add-ons to this project include gate openers, keypads, and sensors.

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Automatic Driveway Gate Cost

Installing an automatic driveway gate costs most homeowners between $2,500 and $5,000, with an average price of $3,160. This investment not only enhances your property's security and privacy but also adds curb appeal and can increase your home's value. Factors like gate material, type, size, additional features, and local labor rates will influence your total cost. Understanding these elements can help you budget effectively and ensure a smooth installation process.

Automatic Driveway Gates Cost by Type

There are four main types of automatic driveway gates, each with its own cost considerations. 

Automatic Swing Gates

Automatic swing gates cost between $840 and $6,000, plus up to $80 per hour for labor. These gates swing open on hinges like a standard door and usually open inward. They're ideal for flat driveways with enough space for the gate's swing radius. Consider factors like gate size, material, and driveway slope to get an accurate estimate for your project.

Automatic Sliding Gates

Installing an automatic sliding gate costs between $700 and $4,080, depending on size, material, and whether it's a single or double gate. Labor fees may reach up to $80 per hour. Sliding gates move sideways along a track, saving space by eliminating the need for a swing area. They're a great option for driveways with limited space or upward slopes.

Automatic Vertical Pivot or Lift Gates

Automatic lift gates, or vertical pivot gates, range from $500 to $12,000. These gates lift straight up, pivoting vertically to allow access. They're perfect for properties with limited horizontal space or steep driveways where swing or sliding gates aren't practical.

Electric Gates

A basic electric gate cost $7,000 on average. If you want extra features, such as sensors and intercoms, the total price of labor and materials could reach $12,000.

Automatic Driveway Gates Cost Factors

The biggest cost factors for automatic driveway gates are material and size.

Material

MaterialTypical RangeCharacteristics
Aluminum$2,090 – $3,150Lightweight, but can dent
Steel$740 – $5,130Low maintenance, but heavy
Wrought Iron$740 – $5,150Decorative, but hard to install
Wood$440 – $5,130Beautiful, but high maintenance
Vinyl$340 – $2,200Inexpensive, but damages easily

  • Vinyl Automatic Gates ($340 – $2,200): Vinyl gates are an affordable option that offers durability and low maintenance. They're lightweight and resistant to corrosion but may not be as sturdy as metal gates.

  • Wood Automatic Gates ($440 – $5,130): Wood gates provide a classic and natural look, enhancing curb appeal. They require regular maintenance to protect against weathering, rot, and pests.

  • Steel Automatic Gates ($740 – $5,130): Steel gates are strong and durable, offering enhanced security. They can be heavy and may require a robust motor for automation.

  • Wrought Iron Automatic Gates ($740 – $5,150): Wrought iron gates are ornate and highly durable, adding a touch of elegance to your property. They are customizable but may require regular maintenance to prevent rust.

  • Aluminum Automatic Gates ($2,090 – $3,150): Aluminum gates are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a low-maintenance option. They're ideal for homeowners seeking a metal gate without the weight of steel.

Size

Gate Lengths in Linear FeetTypical Range
16$1,300 – $6,500
14$1,050 – $5,600
12$850 – $5,100

Color

If you want your driveway gate to have a specific look or color to it, you’ll need to paint it, which will add to your final project cost in labor and material fees.

RV Gates

For homeowners that want their RV to fit comfortably through their driveway, they’ll need a wider gate which can cost them up to $6,000 for the gate alone. An additional factor to consider would be whether homeowners want to add a sensor to their driveway to make entering and exiting it in their RV more convenient. Adding a sensor can cost up to $500.

Residential Electric Gate vs. Community Gate Costs

Community gate costs tend to sit around $12,000 or above to accommodate various vehicle sizes. Add installing features such as dual bollards can cost $6,000. All residents that live in the secured community share the cost of installation and hiring gate repair professionals. These barriers protect the entryways to apartments, condos, and single-family housing communities that want more security.

Additional Electric Gate Cost Factors

Here's where you can expect to spend the most of your budget for this project.

Gate Motor

Designed for specific gate styles and sizes, motor prices vary considerably from $560 to $4,750. Complicated models, like the cantilever design, need large, expensive motors. This ensures they have the power to move on their own.

Gate Opener Remote

Driveway gate opener remotes run from $75 to $300 and come packaged separately from the gate. Your installer will select the correct type of opener kit for your automatic gate style and size. They will also pick up all the extra features you want to add.

Keypads

If you want a keypad for your automatic driveway gate, expect to pay $250 to $650. While these accessories require you to enter a password to get home, it’s a convenient option for homeowners who have guests over.

Sensors

For homeowners who want a sensor for easy access to their property, it’ll cost $250 to $1,250.

Intercoms

While driveway gate intercom systems are more common for gated communities, homeowners who would prefer to allow guests to access their property using this method will cost $680 to $4,500.

Dual Bollards

Also commonly seen in gated communities, dual bollards aren’t off-limits to homeowners. The cost to install these driveway add-ons is $3,000 to $6,000.

Driveway Gate Installation Costs

Labor costs for installing an automatic driveway gate typically range from $30 to $80 per hour for gate installers. If your project requires electrical work, you might need to hire an electrician at $50 to $100 per hour to handle wiring and automation components. For any concrete or masonry work, masons or contractors may charge between $40 and $100 per hour.

These professionals will handle tasks like site preparation, mounting the gate, electrical wiring, and setting up automatic features. Keep in mind that labor rates can vary based on your region and the complexity of the installation. It's a good idea to get quotes from local gate installation experts to understand the costs specific to your project.

Manual Driveway Costs

Manual driveway gate installs start at $1,500, including labor and materials, but cost $2,500 on average. But material, mechanism, and accessories, can raise the price to $4,000. Like automatic driveways, the labor rate is $30 to $80 per hour or a flat fee but requires less time for a basic installation.

Installation Costs

Most installers charge $30 to $80 per hour to install manual models. Some charge a flat rate for the entire project, though it’s not common. Installing additional fencing can cost $1 to $45 per linear foot. Overall, you can expect the installation costs to total at least 50% of the entire project expenses.

DIY vs. Pro

While it might be tempting to save money by installing your automatic driveway gate yourself, improper installation can lead to serious safety issues and costly repairs down the line. Automatic gates involve complex electrical components and precise measurements. Hiring a professional ensures your gate operates smoothly and complies with all safety standards. A local driveway gate installation company has the expertise to install your gate correctly, providing peace of mind and saving you time and potential headaches.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Homeowners experience a few benefits with automatic driveway gates:

  • Insurance: Homes with security driveway gates typically get a lower insurance premium. The added security and decrease in risk of theft and vandalism are the main reasons for the lower monthly premium.

  • Property value: A safety or security gate can increase the value of your property by up to 5%. This hike in value comes from the device’s ability to boost curb appeal and increase security.

  • Security: Automatic driveway gates can also increase your property's security by keeping unwanted people and animals off of it.

Your driveway gate can open either inward or outward, depending on your property's layout and space constraints. Opening the gate inward toward your property is generally safer and preferred, as it prevents the gate from obstructing pedestrians or vehicles on the sidewalk or road. Some local regulations may require gates to open inward for public safety reasons. Consulting with your installer and checking local codes can help determine the best option for your gate.

In many areas, you may need a permit to install an automatic driveway gate, especially if it involves electrical work or changes that affect public access. Permit requirements vary by location, so it's essential to check with your local building department before starting the project. A professional installer can help you navigate the permitting process to ensure your gate complies with all local codes and regulations.

No, automatic gates are typically energy-efficient and shouldn't cause a significant increase in your electricity bill. Most gate motors are designed for low power consumption since they operate only when opening or closing the gate. Additionally, there are solar-powered gate systems available that harness energy from the sun, further reducing electricity costs.

Yes, all electric gates come equipped with a manual release mechanism that allows you to open and close the gate during a power outage or emergency. These safety features are mandated by industry standards to ensure accessibility for emergency responders. It's important to familiarize yourself with the manual override process and keep any necessary keys or tools readily available.

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