House Painting Cost Calculator
Estimate interior or exterior house painting costs using square footage, finish level, and a ZIP-informed regional adjustment.
How this painting estimate is calculated
This calculator starts with fixed baseline $/sq ft assumptions for interior versus exterior painting, applies a finish-level multiplier, then uses your ZIP to select a state-level regional adjustment where one is available. It does not use live contractor bids or city-specific price feeds, so treat the result as a planning range—not a quote.
- Included (typical): labor + standard materials + common prep.
- Not included: major repairs, lead paint remediation, scaffolding rentals, extensive trim/doors, or specialty coatings.
- Best next step: compare 2–3 quotes with a consistent scope.
What changes a painting quote the most
- Prep work (patching, sanding, scraping, caulking) and surface condition
- Number of coats + paint line/brand
- Trim, cabinets, doors, and detail work vs flat walls
- Access (high ceilings, steep rooflines, tight spaces)
- Protection/cleanup (masking, furniture moving, daily cleanup)
What this painting range usually assumes
Most budget ranges assume standard prep, common paint systems, and normal site access. If your home needs extensive scraping, stain blocking, trim repair, lead-safe work, or difficult ladder/scaffold setups, the low end of the range will usually understate the real job cost.
- Interior ranges assume normal wall prep, not major drywall restoration.
- Exterior ranges assume typical access, not steep rooflines or specialty lifts.
- Premium paint lines and dark-color repaints usually need extra labor and material.
- Occupied homes with heavy protection or phased scheduling add time.
How to compare painting bids
Use the same written scope for every painter so you can compare true value. A low proposal often excludes prep depth, number of coats, or cleanup details that matter more than the headline total.
- Confirm the exact prep list: patching, sanding, caulking, priming, and masking.
- Ask what paint brand and product line are included in the quoted price.
- Check whether trim, doors, ceilings, shutters, or detached structures are separate.
- Make sure the bid states cleanup standards, touch-ups, and warranty terms in writing.
Before you sign, ask each contractor what would trigger a change order so surprises are priced the same way across every bid.
Painting cost FAQ
How accurate is this? It’s a fast range to help you budget. Real quotes vary based on prep needs and site conditions.
Interior or exterior — which costs more? Exteriors often cost more due to access, weather windows, and prep complexity.
How do I estimate square footage? Start with your home’s floor area, then adjust for wall height, trim, and what’s excluded (windows/doors).
How can I lower the cost? Clear rooms, handle small repairs, and confirm exactly what prep is included before comparing bids.
How do I get an actual quote? Use Get contractor quotes and ask each painter to quote the same scope.