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House painting cost guide
Data snapshot 2026-09 · Updated 2026-09-12 · HomeTrueCost
1,500 sqft of interior walls at 2 coats of premium paint runs $3,000–$6,000 professionally painted in 2026 — prep dwarfs paint-can cost. This guide covers pricing logic, the coats ladder, and what trim and ceilings add.
Mid-grade replacement by state
| State | Labor | Materials | Permits | Total incl. 10% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $2,540 | $961 | $0 | $3,851$2,850–$4,850 model band |
| California | $3,840 | $1,040 | $0 | $5,368$3,900–$6,850 model band |
| Florida | $2,637 | $961 | $0 | $3,958$2,900–$5,000 model band |
| Ohio | $3,451 | $918 | $0 | $4,806$3,450–$6,150 model band |
1,500 sqft walls, 2 coats. No permits. Totals show the mid with the model sensitivity band beneath (observed cross-market spread, not quotes). Sources: BLS OEWS + BEA goods-RPP (2026-09-12) · methodology
What moves the number
01
Prep dwarfs paint
Patching, sanding, caulking, and masking are the labor core. Cans are a small share — never optimize on paint price alone.
02
Coats and color change
Same-color refresh (×0.75) vs 2-coat standard vs primer + 2 (×1.25) for bare drywall or dramatic color shifts.
03
Trim and ceilings
Base spec covers walls. Trim, doors, and ceilings are separate labor lines in real bids — ask for them itemized.
04
Exterior multiplier
Exteriors add stories, scraping, and weather windows. Use interior math as the floor, not the quote.
FAQ
How much does house painting cost in 2026?
1,500 sqft of interior walls at 2 coats of premium paint typically runs $3,000–$6,000 pro-painted. Exteriors scale with stories and prep; designer finishes run higher.
What drives painting cost the most?
Prep and coats — patching, sanding, and primer dwarf paint-can cost. Color changes and trim work add labor.
Is this quote a contractor bid?
No — a planning estimate. Lead paint, high ceilings, and rot change the job; get 3 local bids.
Changelog
- 2026-09-12 — v1 — initial guide from BLS OEWS + BEA goods-RPP live manifest.
Estimate only — not professional advice.