2026 Boulder Retaining Wall Cost Guide: Woodbury and Stillwater

If you are planning a landscape project in Woodbury, Stillwater, or White Bear Lake, a boulder retaining wall is one of the most cost-effective and durable ways to manage Minnesota’s hilly terrain.

Before you start your project, here is a transparent breakdown of the costs you can expect for a professional installation in 2026.

How much should a boulder wall cost?

In the Twin Cities East Metro, professional boulder wall installation typically ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot (face feet). On average, most local homeowners spend between $3,600 and $10,600 for a complete project.

Factors that influence your final quote:

• Material Choice: Local fieldstone is often the most cost-effective, while premium granite or limestone boulders can increase the price by 20% or more.

• Site Accessibility: If our crews can’t get a skid steer directly to the wall site, labor costs increase due to the extra time needed to move heavy stone.

• Drainage Needs: Proper drainage (gravel backfill and piping) is essential in our clay-heavy soil and typically adds $5–$15 per linear foot to the project.

How much does it cost to build a 30 ft retaining wall?

A 30-foot wall is a standard size for residential yard leveling. For a wall that is 30 feet long and 3 feet high (90 square feet), you should budget between $3,600 and $9,000 for a full professional build.

Estimated pricing by project size:

• Small Garden Wall (15 ft long): $1,200 – $4,500

• Standard Residential (30 ft long): $3,600 – $9,000

• Large Estate Wall (50 ft long): $6,000 – $15,000

Hidden Costs: Permits and Engineering

In many East Metro suburbs, including Woodbury and Stillwater, you must account for local regulations that can impact your budget:

• Building Permits: Most cities require a permit for walls over 4 feet in height. Permit fees are often based on the total value of the project. Visit https://www.woodburymn.gov/486/Building-Permits---Residential for more information regarding Woodbury's permit requirements.

• Engineering: If your wall is 4 feet or taller, it may require a design stamped by a licensed engineer, which can add $1,500 to $3,500 to the initial cost.

Is a boulder wall worth the investment?

While the initial cost may be higher than DIY timber walls, boulder walls offer the best return on investment in Minnesota. Because they are natural stone, they are resistant to rot and the intense freeze-thaw cycles of the Twin Cities, often lasting 50 to 100+ years with minimal maintenance.

Get a Quote for Your East Metro Property

Every yard in Woodbury, Stillwater, and White Bear Lake has unique soil and slope challenges. The best way to get an accurate number for your project is with an on-site consultation.

Ready to see what your project will cost? Contact us today for a free estimate.