Painting a room is one of the simplest ways to refresh a home. Whether you are changing the color for a new look or just covering scuffs and stains, the cost of painting an interior room is often the first question that comes up.
The answer depends on several factors, from the size of the space to the type of paint used. This guide breaks down what influences the price and provides a realistic idea of what to expect. Visit https://www.simplifypainting.com/ to learn more.
The National Average Cost Range
On average, painting an interior room costs between $350 and $900, with most homeowners spending about $2 to $6 per square foot. A standard 10-by-12 room can cost around $450 to $750 depending on labor, prep work, and paint quality. Larger rooms, vaulted ceilings, or specialty finishes can quickly increase the price.
These averages include labor and materials, but the final bill can swing higher or lower depending on the specific details of the job.
Factors That Influence Interior Painting Costs
1. Room Size and Square Footage
The bigger the room, the more paint and labor it requires. Professionals usually calculate costs per square foot. A small bedroom may only need one to two gallons of paint, while a large living room may need five or more. High ceilings also add to the cost since more ladder work and paint are required.
2. Labor Costs
Labor is often the largest portion of the budget. Professional painters typically charge between $25 and $60 per hour, or $2 to $6 per square foot. While hiring professionals costs more than a DIY project, it ensures a cleaner finish and faster turnaround.
3. Prep Work
Preparation can be straightforward or time consuming. A room in good condition with smooth walls will take less prep, keeping costs low. If walls need patching, sanding, or priming, the price increases. Removing wallpaper or repairing damage before painting also adds to the total.
4. Paint Quality
Not all paint is priced the same. A gallon of interior paint can range from $20 to over $70 depending on brand and finish. Higher quality paints usually cover better, require fewer coats, and last longer. Cheaper options may save money upfront but often require more product and labor to achieve the same result.
5. Number of Coats
A single coat may be enough if you are repainting with a similar color and the walls are in good shape. A dramatic color change or dark-to-light transition usually requires primer and multiple coats. More coats mean more labor and higher costs.
6. Ceiling, Trim, and Doors
Most room painting projects extend beyond just the walls. Painting ceilings, trim, baseboards, and doors adds to the overall cost. Ceilings typically cost around $1 to $2 per square foot, while trim and baseboards are often charged by the linear foot.
7. Special Finishes
Textured walls, accent walls, decorative finishes, or murals increase the price. Metallics, faux finishes, and bold accent colors may require additional layers and precision, which raises labor costs.
Cost Examples by Room Type
- Bedroom (10×12): $350 to $750
- Living Room (12×18): $600 to $1,200
- Kitchen: $300 to $800 (usually smaller surface area but more trim work)
- Bathroom: $150 to $400 (small space but moisture-resistant paint may cost more)
- Hallways: $300 to $700 (long narrow spaces with multiple doors and trim)
These numbers assume average conditions. Complex prep work, textured walls, or vaulted ceilings can push prices higher.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
DIY Painting
If you take the DIY route, you will mostly pay for supplies: paint, rollers, brushes, tape, drop cloths, and trays. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $60, and most rooms require two gallons. Including supplies, a small DIY project might run $100 to $200.
The tradeoff is your time and effort. Prep, cutting in edges, applying coats, and cleanup can easily take several days if you are inexperienced. Mistakes may lead to uneven coverage or drips that require extra coats.
Professional Painting
Hiring a professional saves time and often produces a smoother finish. Professionals handle prep, protect floors and furniture, and deliver even results. For those with busy schedules or larger spaces, the added cost is often worth it.
Ways to Save on Interior Painting
- Do Some Prep Yourself: Filling small holes, sanding rough patches, or moving furniture before the painters arrive can cut down on labor hours.
- Choose Standard Colors: Bold or custom colors may require multiple coats. Sticking to neutral tones can save time and paint.
- Paint During Off-Peak Times: Contractors may offer lower rates during slower months.
- Combine Rooms: Having multiple rooms painted at once can reduce the per-room cost since setup and cleanup are shared across spaces.
- Buy Quality Paint: It may seem counterintuitive, but higher quality paint often saves money by covering better and lasting longer.
Additional Cost Considerations
- Furniture Moving: Some painters include moving light furniture, while others charge extra.
- Cleanup: Disposal of old paint, plastic coverings, and masking tape may be billed separately.
- Primer: If the walls require priming, that adds both materials and labor costs.
- Repairs: Fixing water damage, replacing drywall, or removing wallpaper can significantly increase the budget.
Long-Term Value of Interior Painting
While cost is an important factor, painting an interior room is also an investment. Fresh paint can make a room feel larger, cleaner, and more modern. It can also increase the value of a home if you are planning to sell. Neutral colors appeal to buyers and help highlight other features of the property.
In addition, good paint helps protect walls from moisture, dirt, and wear. Spending a little more for higher quality paint and professional application often pays off in durability and appearance over time.
Final Thoughts
The average cost to paint an interior room ranges from a few hundred to just over a thousand dollars depending on size, paint quality, prep work, and labor. A DIY job can cost as little as $100 for materials, while professional services for a medium-sized room often land between $450 and $750.
Before starting your project, consider the room’s condition, your comfort with painting, and your budget. Whether you choose to take on the project yourself or hire a professional, a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to give your home a new look.