Paint Cost Calculator
Calculate the total cost of your painting project including paint, materials, and labor. Get accurate budget estimates and save money with professional insights.
Per Sq Ft Average
Labor Cost Share
Potential Savings
Interactive Paint Cost Calculator
Project Details
Room Information
Paint Specifications
Cost Breakdown
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What Affects Painting Costs?
Understanding these factors helps you budget accurately and make informed decisions
Paint Costs
Quality and quantity of paint needed
- Paint grade (basic, premium, luxury)
- Square footage coverage
- Number of coats required
- Primer requirements
Labor Costs
Professional contractor rates
- Regional labor rates
- Project complexity
- Timeline requirements
- Crew size needed
Material Costs
Supplies and equipment needed
- Brushes and rollers
- Drop cloths and tape
- Sandpaper and scrapers
- Cleaning supplies
Preparation Costs
Surface prep and repair work
- Wall washing and repairs
- Hole filling and sanding
- Trim and window caulking
- Primer application
Paint Grade Comparison
Choose the right paint grade for your project and budget
Basic Paint
- Good coverage
- Standard durability
- Limited color selection
- Basic stain resistance
Premium Paint
- Better coverage
- Enhanced durability
- Wide color range
- Good stain resistance
Luxury Paint
- Superior coverage
- Maximum durability
- Unlimited colors
- Excellent stain resistance
Regional Pricing Differences
Painting costs vary significantly by location due to labor rates and material costs
| Region | Labor Rate | Paint Cost | Total Range/Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NY, MA, CT) | $65-85/hr | $35-75/gal | $3.50-6.00/sq ft |
| Southeast (FL, GA, NC) | $45-65/hr | $30-65/gal | $2.50-4.50/sq ft |
| Midwest (IL, OH, MI) | $50-70/hr | $32-70/gal | $2.75-5.00/sq ft |
| Southwest (TX, AZ, NV) | $55-75/hr | $33-68/gal | $3.00-5.25/sq ft |
| West Coast (CA, WA, OR) | $70-90/hr | $38-80/gal | $4.00-6.50/sq ft |
Money-Saving Tips
Professional strategies to reduce your painting project costs
Buy paint in bulk
Purchasing 5+ gallons often qualifies for contractor pricing
Choose mid-grade paint
Premium paint offers best value vs luxury options
DIY preparation work
Handle cleaning, minor repairs, and moving furniture yourself
Paint during off-season
Fall and winter often have lower contractor rates
Get multiple quotes
Compare at least 3 professional contractor bids
Real Project Cost Example
See how costs break down for a typical Interior House (2,000 sq ft)
Interior House (2,000 sq ft)
Paint Cost Calculator FAQ
How much does it cost to paint a room?
A standard 12x12 room typically costs $600-1,200 including materials and labor. Factors include paint quality, wall condition, and local labor rates.
How much paint do I need for a 2000 sq ft house?
A 2000 sq ft house typically needs 12-15 gallons of paint for interior walls, plus 3-5 gallons of primer. Exterior painting requires 8-12 gallons depending on siding type.
What affects painting costs the most?
Labor costs are typically 60-80% of total project cost. Paint quality, surface preparation needs, and project complexity are other major factors.
Is expensive paint worth the cost?
Premium paint often provides better coverage, durability, and appearance. While more expensive upfront, it can save money long-term through longer lifespan and fewer coats needed.
How can I reduce painting costs?
Do your own prep work, buy paint during sales, choose quality mid-grade paint, get multiple contractor quotes, and consider DIY for simple projects.
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