How Much Do Painting Companies Cost in 2025?
The average cost to hire a painting company ranges between $20-$70 per hour , or between $2 – $6 per square foot painted. See below to calculate your project cost.
Fill out the form to compare prices and estimates from local painting companies.
Buyer’s Guide to Painting Contractor Costs
Painting can transform a space, boost curb appeal, or simply refresh the look of your home or business. But how much does hiring a painting contractor cost? The answer depends on various factors, including the type of project, location, and materials used. This guide from 5estimates.com will explore costs for residential and commercial painting, indoor and outdoor projects, and other variables that impact pricing.
How Much Do Painting Contractors Cost?
Residential Painting Costs
| Type of Project | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Single Room (10×12) | $500 – $800 |
| Entire Interior (1,500 sq. ft.) | $2,800 – $6,800 |
| Entire Exterior | $3,500 – $8,000 |
- Cost per square foot (Interior): $1 – $3
- Cost per square foot (Exterior): $1.50 – $4
Commercial Painting Costs
| Type of Project | Average Cost |
| Small Office (1,000 sq. ft.) | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Large Warehouse (10,000 sq. ft.) | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Exterior of Commercial Building | $5,000 – $15,000 |
- Cost per square foot: $2 – $6
Factors Impacting Cost
- Type of Surface: Textured surfaces like stucco or brick may cost more than smooth drywall.
- Paint Quality: Higher-quality paints with better durability and finish can add $15–$50 per gallon.
- Preparation Work: Extensive prep, such as repairing holes or pressure washing, increases costs.
- Labor Rates: Location significantly affects hourly rates. Urban areas tend to have higher labor costs.
Cost to Hire a Painter by Room Type
| Room Type | National Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Accent Wall | $82 – $204 |
| 10′ x 12′ Room | $306 – $816 |
| 14′ × 16′ Primary Bedroom | $714 – $1,326 |
| Bathroom | $204 – $612 |
| Kitchen | $204 – $612 |
| Living Room | $408 – $1,224 |
| All Interior Walls | $1,326 – $6,426 |
| Whole House Interior | $2,958 – $8,976 |
| Whole House Exterior | $2,652 – $5,814 |
| New Construction | $4,080 – $15,300 |
Exterior Painting Costs
Residential Exterior Painting
- Small home (1,000 sq. ft.): $1,500 – $3,000
- Medium home (2,000 sq. ft.): $3,000 – $6,000
- Large home (3,000+ sq. ft.): $5,000 – $10,000
Commercial Exterior Painting
- Small building: $5,000 – $10,000
- Large building: $10,000 – $30,000
Factors affecting costs include the number of stories, surface condition, and type of paint.
Types of Paint and Their Pros and Cons
| Type of Paint | Pros | Cons |
| Acrylic | Durable, versatile, fade-resistant | Higher upfront cost |
| Latex | Easy to clean, quick-drying | Less durable than oil-based paints |
| Oil-Based | Long-lasting, smooth finish | Strong odor, longer drying time |
| Enamel | Excellent for trims and doors | More expensive, requires careful handling |
| Epoxy | Highly durable, great for floors | Limited to specific applications |
Painting Cost Estimation by Square Foot
| Project/Room | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Small Office | $1 – $2 |
| Dining Room – Kitchen | $3 – $6 |
| Master Bedroom | $3 – $6 |
| Baseboards and Trim Work | $1 – $4 |
| Molding (all types) | $1 – $3 |
| Flooring | $2 – $3 |
| Hallway | $2 – $5 |
| Hallway & Molding | $3 – $5 |
| Ceiling | $1 – $2 |
| Cabinetry | $4 – $10 |
| Exterior Vinyl Siding | $2 – $6 |
| Exterior Wood Siding | $3 – $6 |
| Driveway/Sidewalk | $2 – $4 |
| Gutters and Spouts | $2 – $4 |
| Porch and Decks | $2 – $5 |
| Gates and Fences | $2 – $14 per Linear Foot |
| Soffit & Fascia | $2 – $7 per Linear Foot |
Estimating Paintable Area
For Interior Painting:
For Interior Painting:- Measure the width of each wall in a room and add them together.
- Multiply this total by the room’s height to calculate the approximate square footage of the paintable surface.
- Deduct the square footage of windows and doors to get a more accurate measurement.
For Exterior Painting:
- Measure the total perimeter of the house.
- Measure the height from the foundation to the roofline.
- Multiply these two measurements to estimate the exterior paintable area.
- Subtract the square footage of windows and doors for a precise calculation.
Tips for Reducing Painting Costs
- Combine Projects: Painting multiple rooms or areas at once can reduce per-unit costs.
- Prep Yourself: Handle minor prep work, such as cleaning walls or filling small holes.
- Shop Sales: Buy paint during promotions or sales to save on materials.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from at least three contractors.
Hiring a professional painting contractor ensures quality and saves you time. Whether it’s a small residential project or a large commercial job, understanding the cost factors and making informed decisions will help you get the best value for your money.
Finance Options for Painting Projects
- Personal Loans: Many homeowners and business owners use personal loans to finance painting projects. Interest rates range from 6% to 36%, depending on credit score and loan terms.
- Home Equity Loans or HELOCs: For large residential projects, a home equity loan or line of credit offers lower interest rates (3% to 8%) but requires using your home as collateral.
- Credit Cards: While convenient, credit cards should be used for smaller projects due to higher interest rates (15% to 25%). Look for promotional offers with 0% APR.
- Contractor Financing Plans: Many painting contractors offer in-house financing with flexible terms and competitive rates, often around 8% to 12% APR.
- Government Grants and Programs: Some commercial painting projects may qualify for government grants or tax incentives, especially for energy-efficient upgrades.
- Pay-As-You-Go: For smaller projects, consider negotiating a phased payment plan where payments align with project milestones.
Tips for Reducing Painting Costs
Tips for Reducing Painting Costs- Combine Projects: Painting multiple rooms or areas at once can reduce per-unit costs.
- Prep Yourself: Handle minor prep work, such as cleaning walls or filling small holes.
- Shop Sales: Buy paint during promotions or sales to save on materials.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from at least three contractors.
Tips for Hiring a Painter
- Compare Estimates: Obtain at least three in-person quotes for a better comparison.
- Seek Recommendations: Research local painting companies or ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals.
- Review Portfolios: Check examples of the painter’s previous projects.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and qualified.
- Read Reviews: Look up feedback on platforms like HomeGuide and Google.
- Set Payment Terms: Avoid paying the full amount upfront. Instead, agree on a payment schedule.
- Get it in Writing: Secure a detailed contract and warranty before work begins.
Questions to Ask Painters
- How long have you been in the painting business?
- Are you fully licensed and insured? Is everything current?
- Will you use subcontractors for this project?
- How many painting jobs have you completed in the past year?
- Can you provide references with contact details?
- Which paints and brands do you recommend?
- If paint gets on furniture, are you responsible for damages?
- Do you offer a warranty or guarantee for your work?
Hiring a professional painting contractor ensures quality and saves you time. Whether it’s a small residential project or a large commercial job, understanding the cost factors and making informed decisions will help you get the best value for your money.
