Ornamental iron and steel, and the aluminum fences made to look like them, are the open-air option: they mark the line and let the wind blow straight through, which is exactly what a coastal fence wants.
Salt air and finish
Steel and iron need a good coating and touch-ups near salt water. Aluminum doesn't rust the way steel does. Ask what finish a quote includes and what upkeep it expects.
Price
Angi's national ranges: wrought iron $25 to $55 per linear foot; aluminum $17 to $90.
Gates
Driveway and walk gates are where iron shines. Automatic driveway gates run a few thousand dollars in Angi's survey; walk gates far less.
Sources
Checked November 10, 2026. City rules and price surveys change; trust the linked original.