How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Interior Painter?
Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most effective ways to transform your space.
Whether you're preparing to sell, moving into a new house, or simply ready for a change, professional interior painting can deliver a polished, long-lasting finish that’s hard to replicate with a DIY approach. But how much does it cost to hire a professional interior painter—and what factors influence the price?
Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect when budgeting for interior painting services. Be advised, that various factors like geographic market, type and size of home, and other considerations may influence the cost. But use this as a basic guide in budgeting for your next interior painting project.
Average Cost to Paint a Home Interior
In general, hiring a professional painter costs anywhere from $2 to $6 per square foot, including both labor and materials. That means a standard 1,000-square-foot home interior can cost between $2,000 and $6,000 to paint. However, pricing can vary widely based on a number of variables, which we’ll explore below.
For larger homes or high-end projects involving custom finishes, multiple coats, or intricate trim work, costs can exceed $8,000 to $10,000.
Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here’s an approximate breakdown by room size.
Room Type & Estimated Cost:
Small Bedroom or Bathroom (100–150 sq ft) | $300 – $800
Medium Bedroom (150–250 sq ft) | $500 – $1,000
Living Room (300–400 sq ft) | $800 – $1600
Kitchen (with detailed prep) | $800 – $1,600
Hallways or Stairwells (complex areas) | $800 – $2,000+
Hallways, staircases, and open-concept layouts often require more time and precision, particularly if they include high ceilings or elaborate trim.
What’s Typically Included in the Price
Most professional interior painters provide an all-inclusive quote that covers:
Prep work: Patching holes, sanding surfaces, removing wallpaper or old paint
Priming: Essential when covering dark colors or painting over bare drywall
Two coats of paint: Ensures even, durable coverage
Painting trim, baseboards, and ceilings (if included in the scope)
Cleanup: Dusting, paint removal from fixtures or floors, and trash disposal
Some painters also offer color consultations and help selecting the right finish for each space—flat, matte, eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss.
Factors That Impact the Cost of Interior Painting
A variety of elements influence the total cost of your project:
1. Size and Layout of the Home
Larger homes require more labor and materials. Open floor plans or rooms with high ceilings also increase the complexity and time required.
2. Condition of the Walls
Surfaces that are cracked, peeling, stained, or damaged require additional prep work before painting can begin. This step is crucial for ensuring the final paint job looks smooth and professional.
3. Number of Paint Colors
Using multiple colors throughout the home can increase the labor time, especially if the painter has to tape off edges and cut in around different surfaces.
4. Trim and Detail Work
Homes with elaborate crown molding, baseboards, window casings, or built-in shelving add significant detail work that increases the overall cost.
5. Type and Quality of Paint
Higher-end paints like Benjamin Moore Aura or Sherwin-Williams Emerald offer better durability, coverage, and color retention—but they also cost more per gallon than standard paints.
6. Market / Geographic Location
Labor rates vary depending on your region. In urban areas like New York City or San Francisco, prices are often higher due to increased demand and overhead costs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Is It Worth It?
While painting may seem like a straightforward task, there’s a reason professional painters are in high demand. Pros bring:
Years of experience in surface prep and finish techniques
High-quality tools for clean lines and even coverage
The ability to complete the job efficiently and safely
Knowledge of color trends, paint performance, and application best practices
DIY painting can save money upfront, but it can also lead to uneven coats, drips, and visible brush marks—requiring costly fixes later on. For busy homeowners or those tackling large spaces, the peace of mind that comes with hiring a professional often outweighs the savings.
Tips for Hiring the Right Painter
Get Multiple Quotes: Aim for at least three detailed estimates to compare scope, materials, and timelines.
Check Credentials: Ensure the painter is licensed and insured in your state.
Ask for References: A reputable painter should have a portfolio of past work and client testimonials.
Review the Contract: Make sure all details—prep work, paint brands, timeline, cleanup—are clearly outlined.
Don’t Automatically Choose the Cheapest: Lower bids may skip steps, use lower-quality paint, or lack insurance coverage.
Download Our Guide to Hiring a Professional Painter
Final Thoughts
Hiring a professional interior painter is an investment in your home’s appearance, value, and comfort. While costs vary depending on your home’s size and the project’s complexity, most homeowners find that the results are well worth the expense. A well-executed paint job can last 7 to 10 years or more and dramatically enhance your space’s look and feel.
When in doubt, consult with a few reputable painters in your area to get a personalized estimate—and make sure your home looks its best for years to come.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact the Undertone Interiors team to discuss your project and schedule a free in-home estimate.