Retaining Wall Construction in Tempe, AZ — Costs $2,865 to $23,874

What does retaining wall construction cost in Tempe? Average $8,117, ranging $2,865–$23,874. Labor runs $28.28/hr locally — 5% below the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Tempe, AZ Market

-5% vs national

Labor Rate

$28.28/hr

Material Index

97

Avg Permit Cost

$1,479

Median Home Price

$421,717

Tempe is a mid-sized city in Arizona with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a retaining wall construction, which helps keep pricing competitive. Tempe offers slightly below-average renovation costs, giving homeowners a small cost advantage compared to most US markets. The median home in Tempe is valued at $421,717, putting this project at about 1.9% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 45% ROI.

Low Estimate

$2,865

National: $3,000

Mid-Range

$8,117

National: $8,500

High End

$23,874

National: $25,000

Per Sq Ft

$38

National: $40

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

Retaining Wall Construction Cost Calculator for Tempe

Adjusted for Tempe's labor rate ($28.28/hr) and material costs (index 97).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Tempe

$8,117

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (55%)$4,464

At Tempe's average rate of $28.28/hr (6% below national avg)

Materials (45%)$3,653

Material cost index 97 (3% below national baseline of 100)

Retaining Wall Construction vs. Home Value in Tempe

MetricTempeNational Avg
Retaining Wall Construction (Mid-Range)$8,117$8,500
Median Home Price$421,717$350,000
Project as % of Home Value1.9%2.4%
Estimated ROI45%45%
Median Household Income$76,353$75,000

What Affects the Price in Tempe

  • 1Local labor rates ($28.28/hr in Tempe)
  • 2Material cost index (97 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 Tempe

Building permits are typically required for a retaining wall construction in Tempe. The average permit fee in this area is $1,479, 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 Tempe, skilled contractors charge an average of $28.28/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Tempe household earning $76,353/year, this project at $8,117 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

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