💡 Want a precise local estimate? Use our free Interior Painting cost calculator — adjusts for your city and scope of work.
Cost by Project Scope
| Scope | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Single room (walls only) | $350 | $700 |
| Bedroom + bathroom (2 rooms) | $700 | $1,500 |
| 3-bedroom home (walls + ceilings) | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| Full home with trim & doors | $4,000 | $9,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Component
| Component | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Labor (walls, 1 coat) | $1.50 | $2.50/sqft |
| Labor (walls, 2 coats) | $2.50 | $4.00/sqft |
| Ceiling painting | $1.20 | $2.00/sqft |
| Door painting (each) | $80 | $180 |
| Trim & baseboards | $1.50 | $2.50/lf |
| Paint & primer (material) | $30 | $80/gallon |
| Surface prep & patching | $0.50 | $1.50/sqft |
Cost by US Region
Labor rates and material costs vary significantly by location. Here's how costs differ across US regions:
| Region | Low | High | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|---|
| South (TX, FL, GA) | $800 | $3,500 | 0.82–0.95× |
| Midwest (OH, IL, MI) | $1,000 | $4,000 | 0.88–1.10× |
| Mountain (CO, AZ, UT) | $1,100 | $4,500 | 0.95–1.05× |
| Northeast (NY, MA, CT) | $1,500 | $6,000 | 1.12–1.35× |
| West (CA, WA, OR) | $1,600 | $6,500 | 1.10–1.55× |
Get a Precise Interior Painting Estimate in 60 Seconds
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to paint a room?
A typical 12×12 bedroom costs $350–$700 to paint walls only, or $500–$900 including ceiling, trim, and door. Larger rooms and rooms with high ceilings cost more.
How long does interior painting take?
A single room takes 4–8 hours. A full 3-bedroom home takes 2–4 days for walls and ceilings. Add 1–2 days for trim, doors, and multiple coats.
How much does a painter charge per hour?
Professional painters charge $40–$80/hour, but most interior painting jobs are priced per room or per square foot. Always get a fixed quote for interior work.
What's the best paint finish for different rooms?
Flat/matte for ceilings and low-traffic bedrooms. Eggshell for living rooms and dining rooms. Satin for hallways and kids' rooms. Semi-gloss for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.
How can I reduce painting costs?
Move furniture yourself before painters arrive. Fill small holes and do minor prep work. Choose fewer colors (color changes add time). Get at least 3 quotes — painting prices vary widely between contractors.
Calculate Your Local Cost
Costs vary by up to 80% depending on your city. Use our city-specific calculators for a more accurate estimate: