Retaining Wall Construction in Denver, CO — Costs $3,696 to $30,804

What does retaining wall construction cost in Denver? Average $10,473, ranging $3,696–$30,804. Labor runs $38.49/hr locally — 23% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Denver, CO Market

+23% vs national

Labor Rate

$38.49/hr

Material Index

117

Avg Permit Cost

$2,288

Median Home Price

$482,996

As one of the largest metros in Colorado, Denver has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 23% above the national average, Denver is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. The median home in Denver is valued at $482,996, putting this project at about 2.2% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 45% ROI.

Low Estimate

$3,696

National: $3,000

Mid-Range

$10,473

National: $8,500

High End

$30,804

National: $25,000

Per Sq Ft

$49

National: $40

Duration: 3-7 days
DIY: Hard
Permits: Required
ROI: 45%

Retaining Wall Construction Cost Calculator for Denver

Adjusted for Denver's labor rate ($38.49/hr) and material costs (index 117).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Denver

$10,473

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Denver market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (55%)$5,760

At Denver's average rate of $38.49/hr (28% above national avg)

Materials (45%)$4,713

Material cost index 117 (17% above national baseline of 100)

Retaining Wall Construction vs. Home Value in Denver

MetricDenverNational Avg
Retaining Wall Construction (Mid-Range)$10,473$8,500
Median Home Price$482,996$350,000
Project as % of Home Value2.2%2.4%
Estimated ROI45%45%
Median Household Income$76,237$75,000

What Affects the Price in Denver

  • 1Local labor rates ($38.49/hr in Denver)
  • 2Material cost index (117 vs national 100)
  • 3Wall height
  • 4Linear footage
  • 5Material (block, stone, timber)
  • 6Drainage system

Popular Upgrades

  • Natural stone facing
  • Integrated drainage
  • Built-in steps

Planning a Retaining Wall Construction in Denver

Building permits are typically required for a retaining wall construction in Denver. The average permit fee in this area is $2,288, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 3-7 days from start to finish.

A retaining wall construction is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Denver, skilled contractors charge an average of $38.49/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Denver household earning $76,237/year, this project at $10,473 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

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