How Much Does Painting Cost?
Calculate the cost of interior or exterior painting. Includes labor, prep, and materials based on 2026 pricing.
Painting Cost Calculator
100 sq ft1,500 sq ft5,000 sq ft
Low
$3,000
$2/sq ft
Average
$4,500
$3/sq ft
High
$7,500
$5/sq ft
* Estimates based on 2026 national averages. Actual costs vary by location, condition, and contractor.
Common project sizes
Painting pricing breakdown
| Service | Unit | Typical Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior walls | per sq ft | $3.50 |
| Trim and fascia | per linear ft | $4.00 |
| Doors | per each | $150.00 |
| Shutters | per each | $75.00 |
| Surface prep and scraping | per hours | $55.00 |
| Primer coat | per sq ft | $1.25 |
| Paint and materials | per flat | Varies |
Frequently asked questions
How much does house painting cost per square foot?
House painting costs $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot depending on interior vs exterior, surface condition, and paint quality. Interior rooms average $200-$600 per room. Exterior painting for a 2,000 sq ft home runs $4,000-$8,000.
How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house?
Exterior painting costs $2,800-$10,000 depending on home size. A 1,500 sq ft home averages $4,200, while a 2,500 sq ft home averages $6,500. This includes prep, primer, 2 coats of paint, and cleanup.
Is it cheaper to paint yourself?
DIY saves 50-60% on labor, but takes 2-3 weeks for a typical exterior. Equipment rental runs $200-500 and you risk injury on ladders. For interiors, DIY makes more sense. For exteriors, most homeowners get better results hiring a pro.