Decks in Southern California & the Bay Area
Quick answer
A new deck in Southern California typically costs $35–$60 per sq ft in wood and $55–$90 per sq ft in composite, installed. A typical 300 sq ft deck lands around $12,000–$27,000 depending on height, railings, stairs and permits.
5.0 from 47 reviews on Houzz · CSLB Lic. #1040337 · Class B
What our decks service includes
Wood and composite decks and outdoor living spaces built on sound framing and footings.
MDG Builders sells, designs and manages your project; the work is performed by licensed, insured subcontractors.
- Design and layout
- Footings and framing
- Wood and composite decking
- Railings and stairs
- Pergolas and outdoor living
Decks cost in California
| Scope | Typical installed range |
|---|---|
| Wood deck, per sq ft | $35 – $60 |
| Composite deck, per sq ft | $55 – $90 |
| Typical 300 sq ft deck | $12,000 – $27,000 |
Cost factors
- Size and height
- Wood versus composite decking
- Railings and stairs
- Footings and framing
- Pergola or shade structure
- Permit and engineering
How long it takes
Most decks are built in one to a few weeks after permits.
Permits
Raised and attached decks typically require permits.
| Wood | Composite | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical installed price | $35–$60 per sq ft | $55–$90 per sq ft |
| Maintenance | Periodic sealing or staining | Occasional cleaning |
| Look | Natural grain | Consistent color |
How your decks project works
Consultation
Call (888) 666-8224 or send the form to share goals, timing and budget range.
Site visit
We measure, assess existing conditions and discuss options in person.
Written proposal
You receive a written scope and price; typical ranges are a guide, not a quote.
Permits and scheduling
We coordinate permits where required and schedule licensed, insured subcontractors.
Construction and walkthrough
Our team manages the work through final inspection and walkthrough.
What clients say about MDG Builders
From the beginning, we had a great experience with the team at My Design Guide Inc! We wanted to upgrade our patio but we weren't creative enough to know what to do. David was full of great suggestions to make the patio a true conversation piece while still honoring our budget and we couldn't be happier with the result! The quality of work and professionalism is the best I have seen in this business, and they really do take pride in their work. David communicated with us throughout the process and was meticulous in ensuring our yard was still taken care of during the construction period. We have received so many compliments on our new paver patio, fire pit with seating, and built-in outdoor counter. I highly recommend going with them. I would go with them again a hundred times over!
Emil is the most professional, honest, and hardworking person I've hired. I hired him and his crew to pour a 16'x12' concrete slab for a patio. He walked me through every step of the way and communicated with me at all times. I highly recommend him and I will be hiring him for future jobs. It was truly a stress-free job knowing I was getting a good quality install!
We were apprehensive while spending a ton of money for a pool and detached patio. The team from My Design Guide were very professional, Emil was a great help for a few punch list type details that we had. The pool is beautiful and exceeds our initial expectations of what we thought it would look like. Thanks for everything that you have done to make our backyard into our personal oasis.
Verbatim Houzz reviews of MDG Builders; some describe projects other than decks.
Decks questions, answered
Related services:
Cost guides:
How much does a deck cost in Southern California?
Typically $35–$60 per sq ft for wood and $55–$90 for composite; a 300 sq ft deck is often $12,000–$27,000.
Wood or composite decking?
Wood costs less upfront; composite needs less maintenance.
Do I need a permit for a deck?
Raised or attached decks usually do.
How long does a deck last?
It depends on materials and maintenance; composite and well-maintained hardwood last longest.
Can you build a pergola?
Yes, pergolas and shade structures are available.
How long does deck construction take?
Usually one to a few weeks after permits.
Can a deck be built on a slope?
Yes, with appropriate footings and framing.
Who actually does the work on my project?
MDG Builders (My Design Guide Inc, CSLB #1040337, Class B) sells, plans and manages your project from start to finish. The hands-on work is performed by licensed, insured subcontractors in each trade, scheduled and supervised by our team so you have one point of contact.
Is MDG Builders licensed in California?
Yes. My Design Guide Inc holds California Contractors State License Board license #1040337, Class B (General Building). You can look up any license on the CSLB website.
What areas do you serve?
Southern California from Lancaster to San Diego, plus the San Francisco Bay Area.
How do I get an estimate?
Call (888) 666-8224, email info@mydesignguide.com or send the estimate form. We discuss your goals, schedule a site visit and send a written proposal. Office hours are Monday to Thursday 8 AM to 5 PM and Friday 8 AM to 2 PM.
Planning a decks project?
Free estimates. A real person answers — call or send the form and we'll follow up to schedule a site visit.
MDG Builders at a glance
- Who
- My Design Guide Inc dba MDG Builders, a licensed general contractor that sells, designs and manages remodeling and construction projects
- License
- CSLB #1040337, Class B (General Building)
- Where
- Based in Tarzana, CA; serving Southern California (Lancaster to San Diego) and the San Francisco Bay Area
- Phone & email
- (888) 666-8224 · info@mydesignguide.com
- Hours
- Mon–Thu 8:00 AM–5:00 PM · Fri 8:00 AM–2:00 PM · Sat–Sun closed
- Rating
- 5.0 from 47 reviews on Houzz