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Real House Painting Costs: A Complete Price Guide for Local Projects

Painting • February 1, 2025

Get accurate house painting costs and smart budgeting tips for local interior and exterior projects.

House painting costs

Looking for a house painter near you? You’re not alone. Understanding painting costs helps you plan your project and avoid surprises. Let’s break down real painting costs and what influences them.

Interior Painting Costs

Interior painting costs typically range from $2-$6 per square foot. For an average-sized room (12×12 feet), expect to pay $300-$800. But several factors affect this base price:

  • Wall condition and required prep work
  • Paint quality and finish type
  • Ceiling height and accessibility
  • Number of paint colors
  • Trim and door painting needs

Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown

Different rooms come with different costs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Living Room (200-300 sq ft): $400-$1,500
  • Bedroom (120-150 sq ft): $300-$750
  • Kitchen (150-175 sq ft): $350-$850
  • Bathroom (70-100 sq ft): $200-$400
  • Hallway (100 sq ft): $200-$500

Exterior Painting Costs

As discussed in our exterior painting guide, outdoor projects typically cost $3-$7 per square foot. A 2,000-square-foot home exterior might cost $6,000-$14,000.

Exterior Cost Factors

  • Home size and height
  • Surface material (wood, stucco, vinyl)
  • Surface condition and repairs needed
  • Paint quality and number of coats
  • Trim and detail work

Paint Quality and Costs

Paint quality makes a big difference in your project’s longevity. Here’s what you’ll pay per gallon:

  • Builder-grade: $15-$25
  • Mid-grade: $25-$40
  • Premium: $40-$70
  • Designer brands: $70-$100+

Labor Costs

Professional painters typically charge $25-$75 per hour. This rate varies based on:

  • Location and local market rates
  • Experience level
  • Project complexity
  • Season and demand

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond basic paint and labor, factor in:

  • Surface preparation and repairs
  • Primer costs
  • Moving furniture
  • Protection materials
  • Clean-up

How to Save Money on Painting Projects

Smart planning can reduce costs without sacrificing quality:

  • Get multiple quotes from reputable painters
  • Schedule during off-peak seasons
  • Bundle multiple rooms or projects
  • Choose standard colors over custom mixes
  • Handle simple prep work yourself

Understanding Professional Quotes

A professional quote from experienced residential painters should include:

  • Detailed scope of work
  • Surface preparation specifics
  • Paint brands and quantities
  • Labor costs
  • Project timeline
  • Warranty information

Special Projects and Their Costs

Cabinet Painting

Kitchen cabinet painting, as outlined in our cabinet painting services, typically costs $2,000-$8,000 depending on kitchen size and cabinet count.

Trim and Doors

Expect to pay:

  • Door painting: $50-$200 per door
  • Trim painting: $1-$4 per linear foot
  • Window frames: $25-$100 per window

Accent Walls

Adding an accent wall costs $100-$400 extra, depending on size and finish.

Common Hidden Costs

Be prepared for these potential extra expenses:

  • Wall repairs and patching
  • Removing wallpaper
  • Fixing water damage
  • Replacing rotted wood
  • Additional coats of paint

When to Paint

Timing affects both cost and results:

  • Interior: Any time of year
  • Exterior: Spring through fall
  • Off-season: Better rates available
  • Peak season: Book early

Choosing the Right Painter

When searching for a “house painter near me,” consider:

  • License and insurance
  • Years of experience
  • Portfolio of work
  • Customer reviews
  • Written estimates
  • Warranty offerings

Long-term Value Considerations

Quality painting provides value beyond aesthetics:

  • Protection from weather damage
  • Extended material life
  • Improved home value
  • Better curb appeal
  • Lower maintenance costs

Planning Your Budget

To create a realistic budget:

  1. Measure all areas to be painted
  2. List all surfaces needing attention
  3. Note any repairs needed
  4. Get 3-4 professional quotes
  5. Add 10-20% for contingencies

Ready to start your painting project? Get a detailed quote from our experienced team at Harding’s Painting. We’ll help you understand costs and create a plan that fits your budget while delivering professional results.