
If you’ve ever looked at a custom gate and thought, “Why is this one twice the price of that one?” you’re not alone. The price gap can be big. And confusing.
When it comes to custom metal gate cost, there isn’t one flat answer. It depends on a handful of real, practical things. Size. Design. Materials. Labor. Location. And yes, who you hire.
At Hand Crafted Metalworks, we’ve seen customers walk in with a simple idea and walk out with something way more detailed once they understand the options. The cost shifts with every choice. So if you’re planning to install a gate, here’s what actually drives the price up or keeps it reasonable.

This one’s obvious, but it matters more than people think.
A small pedestrian gate for a side yard is going to cost far less than a large double driveway gate. Bigger gates require more metal, more reinforcement, and more installation time. If the opening is wide, the frame needs to be stronger so it doesn’t sag over time.
And if your driveway slopes or the ground is uneven, that adds fabrication adjustments, too.
Not all metal is priced the same. And not all metal behaves the same either.
Steel is common. It’s strong and usually more affordable compared to other premium metals. Wrought iron has a classic look and allows for decorative work, but it can cost more depending on the design. Aluminum is lighter and resists rust well, but the style options may differ.
Your choice here impacts not just price, but maintenance long term. For example, coastal areas with salty air might require special coatings. That affects cost, too.
This is where prices can really jump. A simple horizontal bar gate? Fairly straightforward. Minimal welding. Clean cuts.
Now compare that to a gate with scrollwork, laser cut panels, custom logos, layered metal pieces, or hand-forged details. That’s hours and hours of skilled craftsmanship. Each curve or decorative piece takes time.
At Hand Crafted Metalworks, we’ve built gates that function almost like artwork. And artwork takes effort.
Manual gates cost less than automatic ones. That’s just the reality.
If you want an automatic opener, remote access, keypad entry, or smart home integration, you’re adding equipment and electrical work. Motors, sensors, safety devices, wiring. All of that adds to the final price.
The installation also becomes more complex. You may need power run to the gate location. In some cases, trenching is required. Automation is convenient, no doubt. But it significantly impacts the custom metal gate cost depending on the system you choose.
Raw metal doesn’t stay raw for long. It needs protection.
Powder coating is one of the most common finishes. It protects against rust and weather damage while giving a smooth color finish. Custom colors or specialty finishes can cost more. If you’re near the coast, you may need additional protective treatments. That adds layers of coating and preparation work.
Installation is not always simple.
If your property is on a hill, has tight access, or requires structural posts to be installed, the labor cost goes up. Concrete work might be required. Sometimes old gates need removal first.
Even soil type can affect installation. Softer soil might need a deeper footing for stability. Many homeowners don’t factor this in at first. But installation conditions play a quiet but important role in custom metal gate cost.
Where you live matters.
Labor rates vary by region. For example, fabrication and installation in a high-demand area will typically cost more than in smaller markets.
We often see overlap between clients looking for gates and those upgrading other metal features, like stair railing Orange County projects. Skilled metal fabricators in areas like Orange County tend to have steady demand, and that affects pricing across services.
So geography does play a role.

Some gates are based on standard templates. Others are fully custom from scratch.
Fully custom designs require drafting, revisions, and approval stages before fabrication even begins. That time is part of the cost.
At Hand Crafted Metalworks, when a client wants something original, we start with design sketches, adjust proportions, and refine details. That design phase is valuable work. It ensures the final product matches the property and the homeowner’s taste.
Sometimes homeowners want the gate to match existing fencing, balconies, or even stair railing in Orange County installations.
Matching style, finish, or decorative patterns takes extra coordination. If you’re tying the gate design into other metalwork on the property, that can influence price, too. But the payoff is a cohesive look. And that matters for curb appeal.
If budget is a concern, here’s what usually helps:
You can still get a strong, beautiful gate without going overboard on detailing. At Hand Crafted Metalworks, we often help clients balance aesthetics and cost. Sometimes a small tweak in design saves a lot without sacrificing style.
How much does a custom metal gate cost?
The average custom metal gate cost depends on size, metal type, design details, and if it’s automated. A small manual gate can be inexpensive, and a large one with automation and decorative trim can be an altogether different price. The level of difficulty and the labor rate in your area are factors that also determine the final cost of installation.
How much is the pricing difference for automation?
Yes, automation can increase the total cost quite a bit. Space heaters, control panels, cabling and wiring, sensors, and remote systems are also part of equipment costs. Installation becomes more technical, too. Although automatic gates are convenient and secure, they significantly raise material and labor expenses.
Which metal is cheaper, steel or wrought iron?
Steel is frequently less expensive, especially for minimalist designs. Wrought iron typically has more intricate work and ornamental details that demand longer laborage. The price variation is determined by thickness, finish, and complexity, but in a straightforward project,s steel often comes out cheaper.
Can I reduce the cost of a custom metal gate without compromising the quality?
Yes, you can control costs by opting for a less complex design, no heavy ornamentation, and typical finishes. Automation-free sequencing also contributes to cost savings. Collaborating with talented fabricators such as Hand Crafted Metalworks maintains the structural integrity of our projects and helps us to drive decisions that maintain a strong budget.