Interior & Exterior Painting Cost Guide & Contractor Comparison
Professional painting is one of the highest-ROI home improvements. Learn what painting projects cost and how to find a reliable painter.
What You Need to Know About Painting
Professional painting delivers one of the best dollar-for-dollar returns of any home improvement. A fresh coat transforms a space, protects surfaces, and dramatically improves first impressions. But painting quotes vary wildly — this guide explains what drives the difference and how to evaluate bids fairly.
Project Scope & Pricing Tiers
Single room
$300 – $900
Walls and ceiling in one room with standard prep and two coats.
Interior whole-home
$1,800 – $4,500
All rooms, ceilings, and trim in a 1,500–2,500 sq ft home.
Exterior whole-home
$2,500 – $8,000+
Full exterior including siding, trim, doors, and shutters on an average home.
What Drives the Cost
Interior whole-home painting runs $1,800–$4,500; exterior $2,500–$8,000 depending on home size.
Scraping, patching, priming, and caulking can represent 40–60% of total labor cost.
Premium paints (Benjamin Moore Aura, Sherwin-Williams Emerald) cost $60–$100/gallon vs. $25–$40 for standard.
Dramatic color changes require 2–3 coats. Ask whether the bid includes the number of coats needed for full coverage.
Vaulted ceilings, detailed trim, and intricate molding significantly increase labor time.
Impact level indicates how much this factor typically affects total project cost.
How to Evaluate Contractor Bids
Ask what prep work is included
The difference between a $2,000 and $4,000 bid is often the prep work. Ask specifically what surface preparation is included.
Specify the paint brand and product
Get the exact paint brand, product line, and sheen level in writing. Contractors who leave this vague may substitute cheaper products.
Ask about protection and cleanup
Confirm that floors, furniture, and fixtures will be protected and that cleanup is included in the price.
Check for lead paint disclosure
Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. Federal law requires contractors to follow EPA RRP rules — ask about their certification.
Get a touch-up warranty
Reputable painters offer a 1–2 year warranty on their work. Ask what's covered and how touch-ups are handled.
Frequently Asked Questions
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