Essential Guide to Retaining Wall Pricing: Estimating Wall Costs in San Diego

San Diego Retaining Wall Cost Breakdown

The cost of installing a retaining wall in San Diego is highly variable. Depending on the wall design, material, height, complexity, and site access. The pricing is typically quoted per face square foot, which is the wall height multiplied by its length. However, it is important to note that significant additional costs are associated with engineering and permits.

The following figures represent typical installation costs per face square foot and common line-item adders for a complete, professional installation.

Material-Specific Installation Costs; ALL PRICED PER SQUARE FOOT (ft²)

Segmental Retaining Walls ($70 ft²– $140 ft²)

This range accounts for economy to premium blocks, the inclusion of geogrid layers for taller walls, and the labor for foundation and drainage installation.

Concrete Masonry Unit Walls with Stucco or Stone Veneer ($120 ft²– $220 ft²)

This higher cost reflects the necessity of deep footings, internal steel rebar, structural grout, waterproofing, and the finishing material.

Poured-in-Place Concrete Walls ($150 ft²– $260 ft²)

This is the highest cost bracket due to the intensive labor involved in building forms, complex rebar schedules, and architectural finishing requirements.

Natural Stone Walls ($140 ft²– $260 ft²)

The cost is driven by the intensive, specialized labor required by a stonemason and the high cost of quality stone material.

This table compares the typical installed cost ranges for different retaining wall materials; ALL PRICED PER SQUARE FOOT (ft²)

Key Project Additions (Additional Costs)

Engineering and Stamped Calculations ($1,500 – $8,000)

This typically depends on the wall type and complexity. These formal plans are required by the city to verify the structure is designed safely and meets all building codes, especially regarding soil pressure and drainage.

Building Permit and Plan Check Fees ($400 – $2,000)

This varies by jurisdiction and project scope. These are administrative fees charged by your local municipality to review your plans and legally authorize the construction.

Soils or Geotechnical Reports ($2,500 – $6,500)

Often required for hillside or poor-soil sites. This investigation determines the soil’s stability and composition, providing the engineer with the necessary data to design a safe and appropriate foundation.

Export and Haul Off of Excess Soil ($40 yd³– $85 yd³)

Per cubic yard, a significant expense on sites requiring major excavation. This is especially common when cutting into a slope or digging for a foundation, as the displaced dirt must be legally transported and disposed of.

Tight Access ($10 ft²– $25 ft²)

Per square foot, for hand-carrying materials or using specialized small equipment. This adder compensates for the significant increase in labor hours and specialized machinery needed when a standard-sized excavator or delivery truck cannot reach the work area.

Guardrails or Fencing ($90 ft– $180 ft)

Per linear foot, required for safety where a significant drop exists near a walking surface. Building codes often mandate these protective barriers on the high side of retaining walls if they are above a certain height (often 30 inches) to prevent falls.

These costs often require additions that can increase the total project price.

Ready to get an estimate on your dream retaining wall in San Diego? Contact Mercury Builders today to schedule a free consultation and estimate. Our experts would love to help!