Last Updated: February 15, 2023

How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Interior Painter?

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Summary: Interior Painting Rates

Expect to pay $.50 to $.70 per square foot for simple jobs and $1.50-$3 for jobs that include difficult trim or repairs. By the hour you should budget $25 per person for simple jobs and up to $50 for more complex jobs. Materials are extra. A gallon of paint can cost up to $75.

Below are some example prices by location:

CityZip CodeAverage Price Paid
Boston, MA02108$1,737
Charlotte, NC28105$1,466
Newark, NJ08601$2,092
New York City10001$2,083
Philadelphia, PA19019$1,899
Manchester, NH03101$1,325

A coat of paint is a quick and relatively affordable way to refresh your home. Hiring a professional painter means you don’t have to dedicate several weekends to the mundane tasks of prepping, taping, sanding, priming and rolling. It also guarantees a job well done.

How Much Do Interior Painters Charge?

The price of interior painting depends on your geographic location, the experience of the company, the difficulty of the job, the condition of your walls and the design of your home.

Tasks such as painting high ceilings, door painting or [painting trim](https://www.kompareit.com/homeandgarden/painting-cost-to paint-interior-wood-trim-white.html) will add to the total price because they make the job more difficult.

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Further complicating the matter, some companies bid by the hour; others by the square foot; others by the room; and others by the job. The best way to get an accurate idea of price is to seek estimates from multiple panting companies.

  • By the square foot, expect to pay closer to $.50-$.70 for simple jobs. That includes a simple one or two coats of paint without the need for primer or significant wall repairs. If you do need significant wall repairs, a primer and several coats, or fancy trim work, budget closer to $1.50-$3. Geography also plays a role in pricing - you’ll pay on the lower end of the range in rural or less affluent areas.
  • By the hour, labor rates usually start at $25 for basic jobs and cap out at around $50 for complex jobs. That does not include materials.
  • Materials such as paint, rollers, brushes and tarps typically cost extra. A gallon of paint costs anywhere from $20-$75, depending on quality. Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore are the most popular paint brands for residential use. Keep in mind, though, that fewer coats will be required with higher-quality paints, potentially reducing the overall price of the job.

Generally, budget anywhere from $200-$500, including all paint and materials, to have a professional paint a 12X12 room.

Cost to Paint 12 x 12 room

Choosing a Painting Company

Do some background research on any painting contractor you’re thinking of hiring. Check references and the company’s track record with consumer organizations like the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List. Check to see if they are a member of PDCA (Painting Contractors Association). If something doesn’t seem right, move on to the next company.

Be wary of any estimates that seem too good to be true. The company may not be very experienced or they may use low-quality paint. If you’re concerned about the quality of paint, buy it yourself.

References:

Find the Best Painting Pros Who Will Compete for Your Business

Try Our Free Interior Painting Cost Calculator

Fill out our 30 second free form to receive competitive pricing from pre-screened painting contractors. No commitments. Our service is always free!

Try Our Free Interior Painting Cost Calculator

Fill out our 30 second free form to receive competitive pricing from pre-screened painting contractors. No commitments. Our service is always free!