Thinking about hiring a professional painter in Florida? Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s exterior, give your interior walls a makeover, or prepare a property for sale, it’s smart to understand what you can expect to pay. Painting costs can vary widely across the Sunshine State, depending on a number of factors.
In this post, we’ll break down the average cost of house painting in Florida, go over the elements that affect pricing, and help you budget for your next project.
🏠 Quick Answer: Average Cost to Paint a House in Florida
| Type of Project | Low-End Estimate | Mid-Range Average | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Painting (Full Home) | $2,000 | $4,000–$6,500 | $8,000+ |
| Exterior Painting (Full Home) | $2,500 | $4,500–$7,000 | $9,000+ |
| Per Room (Interior) | $300 | $500–$800 | $1,200+ |
| Per Square Foot (Interior) | $1.00 | $1.50–$2.50 | $3.00+ |
| Per Square Foot (Exterior) | $1.20 | $1.50–$3.00 | $3.50+ |
Note: These are general Florida-wide averages as of 2025 and can vary depending on your region (e.g., Fort Lauderdale may be higher than Ocala).
🎯 What Factors Influence Painting Costs in Florida?
Several key elements impact how much you’ll pay for a professional painter in Florida:
1. Size of the Home or Area Being Painted
- Larger homes require more materials and labor.
- Two-story homes increase ladder time and complexity.
2. Condition of Surfaces
- Cracked stucco or drywall may need prep work.
- Peeling paint must be scraped and sanded.
- Homes with mold or mildew require power washing and treatment.
3. Paint Quality and Brand
- Premium paints like Sherwin-Williams Emerald or Benjamin Moore Aura cost more per gallon but offer longer-lasting results.
| Brand | Typical Cost per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Behr Premium Plus | $30–$45 |
| Sherwin-Williams Duration | $60–$75 |
| Benjamin Moore Regal Select | $55–$70 |
4. Number of Coats
- Most jobs require at least two coats for solid coverage.
- Dark-to-light color changes or textured walls may need more.
5. Accessibility
- Hard-to-reach areas (e.g., high ceilings, stairwells, or steep rooflines) increase labor time and equipment needs.
6. Interior vs. Exterior
- Exterior painting is usually more expensive due to weatherproofing materials, height, and prep work.
🎨 Florida-Specific Considerations
Living in Florida presents some unique painting challenges and benefits:
- High Humidity: Causes slower drying times; painters may only work in the mornings during summer.
- Salt Air (coastal regions): Increases wear and tear, especially on wood and metal surfaces.
- Sun Exposure: Fades paint faster, especially darker colors on southern-facing walls.
- Hurricane Season: Exterior painting is best done in fall or winter when storms are less likely.
Tip: Ask your painter if they use mildew-resistant or UV-protective paints. These are worth the investment in Florida’s climate.
💵 What Does Labor Cost in Florida?
Labor is typically the largest portion of any painting project cost. On average:
- Interior painting labor ranges from $1.00 to $2.50 per sq ft
- Exterior painting labor ranges from $1.50 to $3.00 per sq ft
You may also encounter hourly pricing:
| Type of Painter | Typical Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Apprentice / Basic | $20–$30/hr |
| Experienced Painter | $35–$50/hr |
| Lead / Foreman | $50–$75/hr |
If hiring a crew of 2–4 painters, you’re generally paying by the job — but knowing the hourly breakdown helps you spot fair pricing.
🧾 Sample Project Estimates
Here are some example scenarios to help you better gauge pricing:
Scenario 1: Repainting a 1,500 Sq Ft Interior
- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
- Light wall repair
- Mid-grade paint, 2 coats
Estimated Total: $3,500 – $5,500
Scenario 2: 2,000 Sq Ft Exterior – Stucco Home in Fort Lauderdale
- Power washing + caulking
- High-end weatherproof paint
- Includes trim and doors
Estimated Total: $5,500 – $8,000
Scenario 3: Kitchen & Living Room Only (500 Sq Ft)
- Basic prep, single-story, no ceiling work
- 2 coats, neutral colors
Estimated Total: $1,200 – $1,800
👷 Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
If you’re handy, DIY painting can save you money — but it’s not always the best move. Here’s a comparison:
| Aspect | DIY | Professional Painter |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $500–$1,500 | $2,000–$6,000+ |
| Time | Weekends or evenings over weeks | 2–5 days (full crew) |
| Skill Level | Requires patience & prep knowledge | High — cleaner lines, better finish |
| Equipment Needed | Brushes, rollers, ladders, drop cloths | All included |
| Risk | Physical strain, paint spills | Insured, trained workers |
DIY may work well for a single room, but if you’re painting your entire home (especially the exterior), hiring a licensed and insured painter is usually worth the investment.
🔍 How to Get an Accurate Estimate
To get a detailed, fair quote from a painter in Florida, be prepared with the following:
- Approximate square footage of your home or rooms
- Number of rooms and ceiling height
- Current condition of walls or exterior surfaces
- Preferred brands or finishes
- Timeline (do you need a rush job?)
- Access (is it a condo, two-story home, etc.?)
Ask for at least 2–3 quotes from local painters and compare not only prices but also what’s included (e.g., prep work, paint brand, warranty, clean-up).
📌 Key Takeaways
- Interior painting typically costs $2,000–$6,500, depending on square footage and complexity.
- Exterior painting runs higher, usually $4,500–$8,000+ for a full repaint in Florida.
- Florida-specific factors like humidity, sun, and salt air require premium paints and extra prep.
- Labor costs vary by region and experience level, but average $1.50–$2.50 per square foot.
- Always request detailed estimates and ask what’s included — from paint type to warranties.
✅ Final Thoughts
Painting your home in Florida isn’t just about boosting curb appeal — it’s also essential for protecting your property from the state’s extreme elements. Whether you live in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, or inland cities like Gainesville, understanding pricing norms and what affects them will help you make confident, cost-effective decisions.
Need help getting started? Look for local painters with great reviews, ask about their experience with Florida homes, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!