If you’re planning to paint your home and wondering, “How much is this going to cost me?”, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a full exterior refresh, a couple of interior rooms, or the whole house, estimating the cost of a painting project can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we break it down into simple, digestible pieces. We’ll cover:
- Factors that affect painting costs
- Cost breakdowns for interior vs. exterior painting
- How professionals calculate pricing
- Average costs by square footage
- DIY vs. professional cost considerations
- Tips for getting accurate estimates
Let’s start painting the big picture.
Factors That Affect House Painting Costs
Painting is not one-size-fits-all. Here are the key variables that influence how much you’ll pay:
- Square footage of the space being painted
- Interior vs. exterior (exteriors typically cost more)
- Surface condition (cracked, peeling, or stained surfaces require more prep)
- Paint quality and brand
- Number of coats needed
- Trim, doors, and ceilings (these increase labor time)
- Geographic location (labor costs vary by region)
Cost Breakdown: Interior vs. Exterior Painting
Here’s a general breakdown of costs based on the type of project.
Interior Painting
| Room Size | Average Cost (Labor + Materials) |
| Small Room (10×10) | $250 – $400 |
| Medium Room (12×12) | $400 – $700 |
| Large Room (15×20) | $600 – $1,200 |
Additional costs:
- Ceiling: $100 – $300
- Trim & Doors: $50 – $200
Exterior Painting
| Home Size | Average Cost (Labor + Materials) |
| 1,000 sq ft | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 3,000+ sq ft | $5,000 – $9,000+ |
Additional costs:
- Prep (pressure washing, sanding): $200 – $800
- Trim, shutters, doors: $300 – $1,000
- Two-story homes: Add 20%-30% for ladder work
How Pros Estimate Painting Costs
Professional painters typically estimate using a formula:
Total Cost = (Labor Hours x Hourly Rate) + Paint + Materials + Overhead
Example:
- Labor: 2 painters x 3 days = 48 hours x $50/hr = $2,400
- Paint and supplies: $400
- Misc. materials (caulk, drop cloths, etc.): $100
Estimated Total: $2,900
They may also charge per square foot:
- Interior: $1.50 – $4.00/sq ft
- Exterior: $1.00 – $3.50/sq ft
DIY vs. Professional Painting Cost
If you’re handy and have the time, DIY can save money—but not always.
DIY Cost Example (Single Room):
- Paint (2 gallons): $80
- Supplies (rollers, tape, brushes): $60
- Drop cloths, spackle, etc.: $40
Total DIY Cost: ~$180
Time Investment: 1-2 days
Pro Cost for Same Room:
- $300 – $600 depending on location and room size
Pros of Hiring a Pro:
- Faster completion
- Professional prep and clean lines
- Less risk of damage or mistakes
Tips for Getting an Accurate Estimate
- Know Your Square Footage
- Measure or ask your contractor to measure total paintable surfaces.
- Be Clear About Scope
- Specify which rooms, ceilings, trim, and doors you want painted.
- Ask About Paint Brand
- Quality paints cost more but last longer.
- Request a Written Quote
- A detailed breakdown helps you compare bids.
- Ask About Warranties
- Many painters offer guarantees on labor or paint performance.
- Check for Prep Charges
- Prep is critical and can drive up costs—make sure it’s included.
Real-World Cost Examples
Example 1: 2,000 Sq Ft Home Exterior
- Pressure washing: $300
- Paint and materials: $600
- Labor: $3,500
- Total: ~$4,400
Example 2: Interior Repaint of 3-Bedroom Home
- Walls, ceilings, trim in 5 rooms: $4,200
- Minor wall repair and priming: $300
- Total: ~$4,500
Final Thoughts
Estimating the cost of painting your house doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Understanding the factors that affect pricing, knowing the average costs in your area, and being clear about what you want can help you make smarter decisions.
Whether you go the DIY route or hire professionals, budgeting wisely and planning ahead can ensure your paint job is both beautiful and long-lasting.
Need a customized quote for your Fort Lauderdale home? Fort Lauderdale House Painters is happy to provide free, no-obligation estimates. Let’s bring your vision to life—on time and on budget.