How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House? Including Interiors & Exteriors

Planning to paint your home? It’s a good idea to know what to expect before you get started. On average, painting the interior of a house costs between $1,000 and $7,000, same exterior painting ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 per 1,000 square feet. These numbers can vary depending on things like the size of your home, the condition of the walls, and the type of paint you choose.

For interior painting, factors like how many rooms you’re painting, ceilings and trim are included or not, and how much prep work is needed will all affect the cost. Exterior painting is a bit more involved, with things like surface type, the number of stories, and extra prep work like sanding or repairs coming into play. Labor is the biggest expense, and paint quality matters too; investing in good paint can save you money in the long run.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about painting costs, helping you plan your project with confidence. Whether it’s a single room or your whole house, you’ll feel ready to tackle the project and get one step closer to your finished space!

Breaking Down Interior Painting Costs: Room by Room

The cost of painting a home’s interior is typically calculated based on square footage and the specific rooms being painted. On average, interior painting costs $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on factors like the type of paint used, labor rates in your area, and any prep work required. This range can increase if you’re including ceilings, trims, or accent walls in the project.

Here’s a room-by-room breakdown to give you an idea of what to expect:

• Bedroom: Painting a standard 10x12 bedroom typically costs between $300 and $800, including the walls, trim, and possibly the ceiling.
• Living Room: Larger spaces like living rooms range from $400 to $1,500, depending on size and whether features like vaulted ceilings are included.
• Kitchen: Kitchens cost $300 to $750, as there’s less wall space to cover due to cabinets, but precise trimming around edges adds to labor time.
• Bathroom: Painting a small bathroom might cost $200 to $600, while larger bathrooms with more intricate trim or moisture-resistant paint requirements can cost more.
• Hallways and Entryways: Hallways cost around $200 to $700, while taller entryways requiring ladders can go up to $1,000.

What Affects Interior Painting Costs?

• Type of Paint: Premium paints designed for durability and easy cleaning will add to the price but are worth considering for high-traffic areas like kitchens or living rooms.
• Ceiling and Trim: Adding ceilings or trims increases costs due to the precision required.
• Room Size and Condition: Larger rooms or those needing repairs like patching or sanding will take more time and materials.

Additional Cost Considerations

• Accent Walls: Adding a bold color or special finish can range from $150 to $500 extra per wall, depending on size and technique.
• Paint Type: Choosing eco-friendly, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints will cost more initially but are better for air quality in living spaces.
• Labor Costs: Professional painters may charge an hourly rate of $20 to $50 per hour, with labor making up 70-85% of the total cost.

Cost-Saving Tips for Interior Painting

• Do Prep Work Yourself: Moving furniture, cleaning walls, or patching small holes can reduce labor costs.
• Choose Neutral Colors: These mostly require fewer coats and offer long-term appeal.
• Bundle Projects: Painting multiple rooms at once can lower costs as painters reduce setup and travel time.

For additional tips on choosing paint for specific rooms like bathrooms, check out this guide on selecting paint for bathrooms.

Factors Influencing Interior Painting Costs

Interior painting costs depend on a range of factors that influence both material and labor expenses. These elements can help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions for your project. Below are the key factors, explained in detail.

Wall Condition (Prep Work, Repairs)

If the walls are in good shape, the project will likely require minimal prep work, keeping costs lower. On the other hand, walls with damage such as cracks, holes, or peeling paint need repairs before any paint can be applied. This additional labor increases both time and expense.

Common wall preparation tasks include:

• Patching and filling: Holes or cracks must be patched with compound for a smooth surface.
• Sanding: Necessary to level uneven areas or remove rough textures.
• Priming: Essential for surfaces with stains, water damage, or significant color changes.
• Scraping old paint: If the existing paint is peeling, it must be removed to avoid uneven layers.

Tip: Skimping on prep work may lead to an unprofessional finish and reduce the lifespan of your new paint job, making it worth the investment upfront.

Paint Type and Finish (Matte, Gloss, Semi-Gloss)

The type and finish of paint directly affect the cost of your project. Each type has its purpose and price point, and selecting the right one depends on the specific room and its usage.

• Matte or Flat Finish: Inexpensive but not easy to clean, best suited for low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
• Eggshell Finish: Slightly more durable and better for areas like living rooms.
• Semi-Gloss or Gloss Finish: Costlier but ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability and cleanability.
• Specialty Paints: Includes moisture-resistant or stain-blocking paints, which cost more but are essential for areas prone to humidity or stains.

Tip: Premium paints with better durability and coverage have a higher upfront cost, they save money in the long run by requiring fewer coats and lasting longer.

For advice on selecting the right paint finish for your bathroom, see this guide on bathroom paint finish options.

Number of Coats and Color Changes

The number of coats required for your project impacts both labor and material costs. Projects that involve switching from a dark color to a light one or vice versa require additional coats for complete coverage.

Key Considerations

• Dark-to-Light Transition: Requires a primer layer and at least two coats for even coverage.
• Light-to-Dark Transition: Typically needs fewer coats but still depends on the base layer.
• Quality of Paint: High-quality paint offers better coverage, often reducing the number of coats required.
• Accent Walls: Adding an accent wall in a bold or dark color might require additional time and paint.

Tip: Choosing a paint with better pigmentation can reduce the total number of coats and save on labor.

Ceiling and Trim Painting

Including ceilings and trim work significantly impacts the overall cost due to the level of precision required. Ceilings may need special paints that resist stains or have low glare, while trims like crown molding and baseboards require careful attention to detail.

• Ceilings: Textured or high ceilings take more time and effort to paint evenly.
• Trims and Moldings: Small details like baseboards, window frames, and door trims add time due to their intricate work.
• Paint Type for Ceilings: Flat paints are typically used, but stain-blocking or anti-glare paints might be needed for specific conditions.
• High Ceilings: May require ladders or scaffolding, increasing labor costs.

By considering these factors wall condition, paint type, number of coats, and inclusion of ceilings and trim you can better estimate your interior painting budget and plan your project efficiently.

Additional Costs

As we discussed above in the Cost-Saving Tips for Interior Painting, managing your budget is key. But it’s equally important to account for additional costs that can impact the final price of your project. These costs may not always be obvious but can make a big difference, especially if your project includes custom touches or specific preparation needs.

Custom Features (e.g., Accent Walls, Murals)

Adding custom features like accent walls or murals can elevate the look of your space but also increase your expenses.

• Accent Walls: Choosing a single wall to paint in a bold color or unique finish typically costs an additional $80 to $200 per wall. The size of the wall, the paint quality, and the number of coats required will determine the final cost.
• Murals or Decorative Art: Hand-painted murals, stencils, or intricate designs require a skilled professional and come at a higher price. Expect to pay $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the complexity and size.
• Textured or Specialty Paints: Options like metallic finishes, chalkboard paint, or textured surfaces require extra time and effort, adding to labor and material costs.

If you’re planning to include custom features, it’s best to discuss these with your contractor upfront for an accurate estimate.

Furniture Moving and Protective Coverings

Preparing your space for painting is an important step and can incur additional costs, especially if you rely on professionals to handle it.

• Furniture Moving: If large furniture needs to be moved, painters may charge extra. Costs can range from $50 to $200, depending on the number of items and the effort involved.
• Protective Coverings: To protect floors, furniture, and fixtures from paint splatters, painters use materials like plastic sheets, tarps, or drop cloths. While some of this is included in professional services, using premium coverings or working in cluttered spaces may increase costs slightly.
• Space Accessibility: Tight or heavily furnished spaces can require more prep work, adding to labor time and cost.

To save on these expenses, you can clear furniture yourself and purchase affordable coverings from a local hardware store.

Exterior House Painting Costs: What to Expect

Exterior painting involves unique challenges and costs, which vary based on the size of your home, the materials used, and additional requirements like surface preparation and weatherproofing.

Average Costs

For most homes, this ranges from $1 to $6 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job, labor rates, and paint quality.

• Single-story homes: Expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the home’s size and surface type.
• Multi-story homes: These cost more, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, due to the extra labor and equipment required for hard-to-reach areas.
• Big or multi-story homes: These can cost upwards of $10,000, especially if scaffolding or specialized equipment is required.

Factors like location and local labor rates also influence the total cost. For an accurate estimate, measure the exterior surface area of your home and consult with professional painters to understand what your specific project entails.

Factors Affecting Exterior Painting Costs

Several factors can affect the cost of painting your home’s exterior. These include the type of surface, the condition of the exterior, and special requirements for weatherproofing.

Surface Material

• Wood: Absorbs paint easily but may need frequent maintenance, costing more.
• Stucco: Requires more paint due to its porous texture and typically costs more to paint than wood.
• Brick: Painting brick is optional but can cost more due to specialized paints and techniques.
• Vinyl Siding: Easier to paint and less expensive compared to other materials.

Condition of the Exterior

Homes with peeling paint, cracks, or damage require extra prep work. Scraping, repairing, and priming the surface can add $500 to $1,500 to the total cost. This step is essential for a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Weatherproofing Requirements

Applying weather-resistant paint is important for areas exposed to harsh climates. This type of paint is typically more expensive but offers protection against moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes.

Number of Stories and Access Difficulty

Multi-story homes require additional equipment like ladders or scaffolding, increasing labor time and costs. If your home has architectural features that are difficult to access, expect to pay a premium.

Additional Costs

Exterior painting projects come with add-ons that can shine the overall look of your home but also raise the budget.

Pressure Washing

Cleaning the exterior before painting is a crucial step to remove dirt, mildew, and debris, ensuring better paint adhesion.

Decks, Fences, and Detached Structures

If you’re painting additional structures like decks, fences, or detached garages, these will add to your total cost:

• Decks: Painting or staining a deck costs $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on its size and condition.
• Fences: A wooden fence may cost $1 to $4 per linear foot, while more intricate designs can cost more.
• Detached Garages or Sheds: Painting detached structures can cost $500 to $2,000, depending on their size and complexity.

Windows and Doors

Painting exterior windows and doors is time-consuming and requires precision. Costs for these features depend on their number and design:

• Windows: $50 to $150 each, depending on size and detail.
• Doors: $100 to $300, especially if multi-colored designs or custom finishes are required.

Proper planning for these factors and additional costs ensures your exterior painting project stays on track and delivers lasting results.

DIY vs. Professional Painting

In any painting project, choosing between DIY and hiring professionals is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Both approaches come with unique costs, time commitments, and challenges. Below is an in-depth breakdown of what to expect from each option to help you decide which one best fits your needs.

DIY Painting Costs

DIY painting can be cost-effective for smaller projects, but it’s not as straightforward as it seems. You save on labor costs, you’ll need to factor in the materials, time investment, and your skill level to achieve quality results.

Materials Required

To complete a DIY project, you’ll need several supplies:

• Paint: $20–$70 per gallon, depending on quality and type (e.g., matte, gloss, or specialty).
• Brushes and Rollers: High-quality tools can cost between $10 and $50. Poor-quality tools may leave streaks or shed bristles, requiring extra coats and increasing paint usage.
• Drop Cloths and Tape: Protecting floors, furniture, and edges requires materials costing $20–$50. Reusable cloths can reduce costs over multiple projects.
• Ladders or Scaffolding: Depending on the height of your walls or exterior, expect to spend $50–$300 for ladders or rent scaffolding for $40–$150 per day.
• Primer: For darker walls or uneven surfaces, primer is essential and costs $15–$40 per gallon.
• Other Supplies: Buckets, paint trays, stir sticks, and cleaning solvents add another $20–$50.

For a medium-sized room (10x12 feet), DIY material costs can range from $200 to $500, while an exterior project may require an investment of $600–$1,000 in materials alone.

Time Investment and Skill Level

• Preparation: Cleaning, patching, sanding, and taping can take several hours to a full day, depending on the wall condition and size of the project.
• Painting: Applying multiple coats evenly takes practice. A single room can take an inexperienced painter an entire weekend, while exterior projects might stretch across several weeks.
• Cleanup: Removing tape, cleaning brushes, and disposing of leftover paint requires additional time.

DIY is ideal for those with experience or for small-scale projects. For beginners, mistakes like uneven coats, drips, or poor edge work may lead to higher material costs and additional time for corrections.

Hidden Costs of DIY

• Mistakes can lead to wasted paint and materials, requiring additional purchases.
• You may need to buy specialized tools (e.g., edge trimmers, angled brushes) for detailed areas like corners or trims.
• Lack of proper safety equipment, especially for exteriors, increases the risk of accidents.

Professional Painting Costs

Hiring professionals ensures a polished, high-quality finish but comes with higher upfront costs. The total expense varies based on labor rates, project size, and complexity.

Labor Charges

Professional painters charge by the hour or square foot:

• Interior Painting: $20–$50 per hour or $2–$6 per square foot.
• Exterior Painting: $30–$70 per hour or $1–$6 per square foot.

For example:

• A single 10x12 room may cost $300–$800, including ceilings and trim.
• Painting the exterior of a single-story home typically costs $1,000–$3,000, while multi-story homes range from $3,000–$10,000.

Factors That Increase Professional Costs

• Wall and Surface Condition: Repairs, sanding, or priming add time and cost.
• Ceilings and Trim: Painting intricate trim or high ceilings requires precision, increasing labor hours.
• Location: Regional labor rates vary, with higher costs in urban areas.

Pros of Hiring Professionals

• High-Quality Results: Professionals use proper techniques and tools to deliver smooth finishes with no streaks or drips.
• Time Efficiency: Experienced painters can complete projects in half the time it would take a DIYer.
• Access to Equipment: Professionals have ladders, scaffolding, and specialty brushes, eliminating the need for you to rent or buy tools.
• Expert Advice: They can recommend the best paint types and finishes for your space.
• Warranty and Insurance: Many professional services include warranties, ensuring long-lasting results and peace of mind.

Cons of Hiring Professionals

• Higher Upfront Costs: Labor can make up 60–70% of the total expense.
• Scheduling Challenges: Availability may delay project timelines.
• Reduced Personal Involvement: Some homeowners may prefer the hands-on approach of DIY.

DIY vs. Professional Professional Painting

Ways to Cut Your Painting Costs

After weighing the pros and cons of DIY and professional painting, Next step how to make your project more cost-effective. Painting can be a significant investment, there are practical ways to cut expenses without sacrificing quality.

Choosing Budget-Friendly Paints

While high-end paints offer durability and superior finish, there are budget-friendly options that perform well, especially for less demanding areas.

• Mid-Range Paints: These balance cost and quality, making them ideal for spaces like bedrooms or living rooms where durability isn't as critical.
• Sales and Promotions: Many retailers offer seasonal discounts or bulk purchase deals, which can reduce costs by 10%–20%. Buying in bulk for larger projects also lowers the price per gallon.
• Neutral Colors: Sticking to neutral shades like whites or greys helps avoid frequent repainting as trends change, saving money over time.

For areas like kitchens or bathrooms, prioritize quality over price by selecting paints with moisture resistance or easy-clean properties. These specialty paints cost more upfront but reduce maintenance costs down the road.

Bundling Projects 

Combining interior and exterior painting projects into one contract can lead to significant savings. Painters can optimize labor and materials when handling multiple projects simultaneously, reducing overall costs.

• Reduced Setup Costs: Contractors only need to set up equipment like ladders or scaffolding once.
• Bulk Discounts: Larger paint orders come with supplier discounts, which contractors may pass on to you.
• Streamlined Labor: Coordinating one project reduces travel and downtime for contractors, which may lower hourly labor costs.

While bundling increases the upfront expense, it minimizes long-term repainting costs and ensures a cohesive look throughout your home.

Off-Season Discounts and Promotions

Timing your project strategically can lead to significant cost reductions. Painters are busiest during spring and summer due to ideal weather conditions. Scheduling your project during the off-season—fall or winter for most regions—can result in lower labor costs and access to promotions.

• Negotiation Opportunities: Painters may be more flexible with pricing during slower months.
• Better Availability: Off-season work allows you to choose experienced contractors who might be booked during peak periods.
• Quality Control: Contractors have more time to focus on your project during the off-season, leading to better results.

Check with local contractors to learn about seasonal pricing adjustments or package deals.

Doing Prep Work Yourself

Preparation accounts for a significant portion of painting costs, especially when hiring professionals. Handling some or all of the prep work yourself can save hundreds of dollars.

• Clearing the Area: Move furniture, cover floors with drop cloths, and remove wall fixtures like outlet covers and light switches.
• Cleaning Surfaces: Wash walls and exterior surfaces to remove dust and grime, ensuring proper paint adhesion.
• Basic Repairs: Fill small cracks and holes with spackling paste and sand rough spots for a smoother finish.
• Taping Edges: Use painter’s tape to mask windows, trims, and other edges, reducing the time professionals spend on precision work.

While these tasks are manageable for most homeowners, leave major repairs or sanding large surfaces to professionals to ensure quality results.

Additional Considerations

Beyond reducing costs, it’s important to think about factors that impact the longevity of your paint job and your long-term expenses.

Frequency of Repainting (Interior vs. Exterior)

Knowing when to repaint helps avoid unnecessary costs and ensures your home stays in great shape.

• Interior Walls: Repainting is typically needed every 5–7 years. High-traffic areas like kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms may require touch-ups more frequently due to wear and tear.
• Exterior Walls: Exterior surfaces last 5–10 years depending on the paint quality, surface material, and environmental exposure. Homes in harsh climates may need more frequent attention.

Tracking the age of your paint job and scheduling regular inspections can prevent costly repairs caused by neglect.

Environmental Factors (Sun, Rain, Humidity)

The climate in your region plays a major role in the durability of exterior paint.

• Sun Exposure: Homes in sunny regions experience faster fading and discoloration. UV-resistant paints are a good investment to maintain vibrancy.
• Moisture: High humidity or frequent rain can cause bubbling, peeling, and mildew growth. Moisture-resistant or waterproof paints prevent these issues.
• Temperature Fluctuations: In areas with extreme seasonal changes, flexible paints that expand and contract with the weather are essential to avoid cracking.

Your local environment allows you to choose the right paint and maintenance schedule, saving costs in the long term.

Long-Term Benefits of Investing in High-Quality Paint

While budget paints may seem appealing, they lead to more frequent touch-ups or repainting. High-quality paints provide better coverage, require fewer coats, and resist wear and tear for longer.

• Exterior Protection: Weather-resistant paints shield your home from the elements, reducing maintenance costs over time.
• Interior Durability: Easy-to-clean paints are especially useful in high-traffic areas like kitchens or children’s rooms, extending the lifespan of the paint job.
• Fewer Coats: Premium paints cover surfaces more effectively, reducing the amount of paint and labor required.

Investing in quality paints may increase upfront costs but offers savings through reduced maintenance and longer-lasting results.

Conclusion

Painting your home involves balancing costs, quality, and maintenance. By choosing the right materials, bundling projects, and timing your work strategically, you can achieve great results without overspending.