If you’ve been staring at your walls for a while thinking they desperately need a makeover, painting can be a quick and affordable way to totally transform your space.
Whether it’s refreshing a single room, updating your kitchen, or finally getting around to painting the whole house, the question is: How much is it going to cost you?
Before you grab that brush and start painting, or hire painters in NYC to do it, it’s good to know what to expect when it comes to the cost of a paint job.
Let’s break it all down so you can get a solid idea of what to budget for your next painting project, without any surprise costs.
1. The Size of Your Space
It may seem obvious, but the larger the space, the more you’re going to pay. But this doesn’t mean you need to break the bank for a small job.
- Square Footage is Key: The price for painting is often determined by the square footage of the area. A gallon of paint typically covers about 350 square feet. So, if you’re painting a small bathroom, that’ll cost you less than if you’re painting an entire living room, and way less than the cost of painting the whole house.
- Rooms vs. Exteriors: An interior paint job is generally cheaper than exterior painting. The exterior of your home requires extra prep work (like pressure washing, sanding, or fixing any wall damage) and more durable paint that can withstand the weather. So, exterior jobs usually come with a higher price tag.
A standard living room might cost anywhere between $400 and $1,000, depending on how much work it needs. Small rooms like bathrooms could cost around $200 to $500.
2. The Paint Itself
When you choose paint, you might be tempted to just grab the cheapest option on the shelf. But don’t let that price tag fool you. And the type of paint you choose can seriously affect the cost of your project.
- Budget-Friendly Paint: Basic latex paint (the usual go-to for walls) will cost you about $20 to $40 per gallon. This is fine for most rooms and offers a nice, smooth finish.
- Premium Paint: If you want extra durability or a higher-end finish, you’ll pay a bit more. Premium paints can range from $50 to $100 per gallon, and they offer benefits like better coverage, longer-lasting results, and enhanced resistance to stains and mildew.
Also Read: When Do You Take Painters Tape Off?
3. Labor Costs
Now, let’s talk about the big one: labor. Hiring a professional painter is the easiest route to a flawless job, but how much does it actually cost to have someone do the work for you?
- Hourly Rates: In NYC, professional painters typically charge $50 to $70 per hour. This can vary depending on their experience, the complexity of the job, and whether they need to deal with tricky areas (like high ceilings or delicate surfaces).
- Flat Rate Jobs: For smaller, well-defined jobs (like a single room), you might get a flat rate for the entire project. For example, painting a small bedroom could cost $300 to $600, including the cost of materials and labor.
- Multiple Painters: For larger jobs, having more than one painter can speed things up, but expect to pay more for the additional crew. If you’re painting a whole house, multiple painters might bring the price up to $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the size and details of the project.
4. Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Other factors may add to the cost, so be prepared for a few extras.
- Prep Work: Wall preparation (like patching holes, sanding rough spots, or removing old wallpaper) can add to the overall cost. Basic repairs might cost $100 to $300, depending on how much work is needed.
- Ceiling and Trim: These areas usually require additional work and precision, so you can expect to pay more. Painting trim and ceilings often adds $100 to $500 to the overall cost, depending on the size and complexity.
5. Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
Both options have their pros and cons, and the choice depends on your time, skill level, and budget.
- DIY: Going the DIY route can save you money, especially for small jobs. But painting isn’t as easy as it looks! Mistakes can happen, especially with tricky areas like edges, corners, or ceiling lines. Plus, it can take a lot of time and effort.
- Professional: Hiring a professional painter ensures you get a flawless finish and saves you time. They also come with the tools and expertise to handle difficult jobs. Sure, you’ll spend more, but you get professional quality and peace of mind.
Professional Painting for the Win!
Whether you’re looking to brighten up a single room or give your entire home a fresh new look, painting is an affordable way to upgrade your space.
If you’re ready to transform your home with a fresh coat of paint, Lian Painting is here to help. As one of the top painters in NYC, we specialize in both residential and commercial painting projects, delivering high-quality results at competitive prices. Get in touch today for a free estimate!
