Thinking about painting your house or car? A fresh coat of paint can work wonders, but the cost might have you second-guessing your plans. Let’s break it down in plain language—no fluff, just facts.
Painting often seems like an easy way to refresh your space or vehicle, but what you pay depends on more than just the color you pick. From the size of your project to the type of paint, each choice makes a difference.
Home Painting Costs in 2025
Photo by Blue Bird
Interior Paint Jobs
For interiors, most homeowners in 2025 spend between $2,000 and $6,000 per 1,000 square feet. On average, painting a standard living room or bedroom could cost around $4.60–$8.68 per square foot. This covers walls, trim, and sometimes ceilings.
Quick breakdown:
- Small room (10x12 ft): $275–$600
- Whole house (1,500–2,000 sq. ft): $2,500–$5,000
Labor drives these prices. Painters charge about $3–$6 per square foot, $20–$50 per hour, or $200–$500 per day.
Exterior Paint Jobs
Exterior projects usually cost more. The average for a standard house sits around $3,000–$5,000. For a 2,000-square-foot home, expect $5,000–$12,000 if there’s tricky siding, repairs, or extra prep.
Key price points:
- Per square foot: $1.50–$4.00
- Includes labor, paint, prep, equipment rental
Exterior surfaces often need more prep—cleaning, scraping, or sanding. This adds to the final bill.
What Affects the Cost of a Paint Job?
Not every painting project is built the same. Here’s what turns a simple refresh into a big investment:
Size and Surface Area
Larger areas need more paint and more work. Painting a high-ceiling foyer or a multi-story exterior will cost more than a small powder room or single-story ranch.
Type and Quality of Paint
Cheap paint saves money today, but top-quality paint can last longer. Brands with built-in primers or mildew resistance might cost $20–$70+ per gallon, but they’re often worth it.
Premium paints cover better in fewer coats and stand up to weather or cleaning. For some, the upfront cost brings long-term savings.
Labor vs. DIY
Labor makes up 75%–95% of most painting costs. Doing the prep—moving furniture, patching holes, taping edges—yourself can save a lot.
- Pro: Fast and polished finish
- DIY: Lower cost, but needs time and patience
Prep and Repairs
Old, dirty, or damaged walls need more help. Patchwork, sanding, caulking, and cleaning all add time and expense. Exterior jobs often call for power washing and scraping.
If you skip prep, even the best paint won’t look good or last.
Location and Timing
Painters charge more in cities with higher living costs. Painting off-season (late fall or winter) can sometimes mean discounts, since painters need work when demand drops.
Details and Complexity
Special shapes, trim, built-ins, or tricky spots (like stairwells) add to your bill. The more corners, moldings, or repairs, the more time and skill required.
Custom touches—murals, stripes, designs—bring unique style, but also raise costs.
Car Paint Jobs: The Price Tag Explained
Want your car to shine like new? Prices range widely:
- Basic paint job: $500–$1,500 (quick, single-color respray)
- Standard job: $1,000–$3,500 (higher-quality paint, better prep)
- Showroom finish: $5,000–upwards of $10,000+ (multiple layers, deep gloss, custom work)
Factors include:
- Size (compact vs. truck/SUV)
- Paint type (metallic, matte, pearl)
- Number of coats
- Body repairs (dents, rust)
More prep means higher cost. Outstanding finishes use premium products, more labor, and a finer touch.
How to Save Money on Your Next Paint Job
Everybody loves a deal, but don’t cut corners that matter. Here’s how to lower your cost without hurting results:
- Get multiple quotes. Compare prices from at least three pros to find fair rates.
- Do your own prep. Clean, move furniture, patch holes, and tape off areas before the crew arrives.
- Use quality paint. Cheap paint looks bad faster. Investing now avoids repeat jobs.
- Paint in the off-season. Good deals pop up in the painter’s “slow months.”
- Skip the bells and whistles. Keep the finish simple if you’re on a tight budget.
What Should Be Included in the Estimate?
A good estimate should be clear. Watch for these details:
- Square footage covered
- Number of coats
- Paint brand and type
- Labor costs
- Prep and cleanup
- Timelines and guarantees
Sketchy or vague quotes often end in frustration.
Final Thoughts: Budget Wisely for a Lasting Result
Paint is more than color—it’s protection and personality for your space or vehicle. Most of what you pay goes to skilled hands and careful prep, not just the paint cans. When choosing a painter or materials, weigh cost against the quality of finish and life span.
A paint job can cost as little as a weekend and a few hundred dollars for DIY, or several thousand for large spaces or high-end finishes. Smart planning and good prep help you get the look you want, at a fair price, that lasts.
Thinking about painting soon? Check your square footage, make a prep plan, and call a few pros to compare. The right paint job is an investment you’ll notice every day.