Add Rooms

Add rooms to your project to see estimated costs.

Extras & Adjustments

$1.50–$3.00 per linear foot
$75–$150 per door

Estimated Cost

Add rooms to see estimate

What affects painting cost?

Four main factors determine what you'll pay for professional painting:

  • Surface condition — Walls with peeling paint, water damage, or heavy patching need significantly more prep labor, adding 15–35% to the total cost.
  • Paint quality — Contractor-grade paint ($25–$35/gal) vs. premium ($45–$65/gal) affects both material cost and longevity. Higher-quality paint typically covers in fewer coats.
  • Ceiling height and room complexity — Rooms over 9 feet require ladders and scaffolding. Rooms with many angles, built-ins, or crown molding take longer to cut in and mask.
  • Number of colors — Each additional color adds setup time for masking, cleaning tools, and switching materials. Accent walls add $50–$100 per wall.

How to read a painting estimate

A professional painting estimate should break down costs into clear line items rather than a single lump sum. Look for:

  • Materials — Paint, primer, caulk, tape, and supplies. Should specify brand and number of coats.
  • Labor — Hours or per-area rates for painting, typically the largest portion (50–60% of total).
  • Prep work — Washing, scraping, sanding, patching, priming. Should be itemized when extensive.
  • Protection — Drop cloths, masking paper, plastic sheeting for floors and furniture.

For detailed breakdowns, see our Interior Painting Cost Guide, Exterior Painting Estimate Guide, and How to Bid a Painting Job.