How Much Does Residential Painting Cost in 2024?

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Painting your home's interior or exterior can completely transform the look and feel of your living space. With the new year underway, now may be the perfect time to consider taking on a painting project. But before grabbing those paint swatches, it's important to understand how much a residential painting project costs in 2024.

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Size of the Space

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The overall square footage that needs to be painted is a major cost driver. Painting a small room or hallway costs much less than painting the entire interior or exterior of a large house. Prepare to pay more for materials and labor as the size of the painting project increases.

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the square footage of walls and ceilings to be painted is one of the largest factors. More square footage means higher costs for paint and painting supplies, as well as more labor hours to complete the work. According to industry experts, the average cost to paint a small room, such as a bedroom or bathroom, ranges from $200 to $500. Painting an entire 2,000 square foot house interior will cost $4,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on the number of rooms and other variables.

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Exterior house painting costs are also directly proportional to the home's square footage. Painting a 1,500 square foot house exterior costs $2,500 to $7,500 on average. For a larger 3,000 to 5,000 square foot house, exterior painting costs between $6,000 and $18,000. Two-story homes or those with intricate architectural details will be on the higher end of the cost spectrum.

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Type of Paint

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One of the key factors that determines the cost of residential painting is the type and quality of paint used. The specific paint grade and formulation impacts the final price per gallon, and thus the total spend on paint for the project. Here's an overview of how paint type affects cost:

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• Economy vs. Premium Paints: At the low end, cheap economy paints may cost $10-20 per gallon. They provide basic color and coverage but lack durability. On the higher end, premium designer paints run $40-60+ per gallon. Their rich pigments and resins create a more vibrant, durable finish. Expect to pay more for designer brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams.

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• Interior Latex vs. Specialty Paints: Basic interior latex paints are the most affordable at $20-30 per gallon. Specialty paints cost more - for example, gloss enamels run $30-50 per gallon and exterior paints average $30-40. Their formulations make them better suited for specific uses.

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• Durability and Longevity: Higher-quality paints last longer, resist fading, and touch up easier. Though they cost more upfront, they may save money over time by avoiding frequent repainting.

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So when budgeting for a paint job, carefully consider the paint type used. Premium or specialty paints provide greater beauty and longevity but at a higher upfront cost. Always balance paint quality with overall project cost and goals. A professional painting company can advise on the best paints for your particular needs and budget.

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Labor

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One crucial element that affects the cost of hiring a professional painter is their level of experience. Painters who have honed their skills over several years tend to charge higher rates due to their expertise and proven track record. Their extensive knowledge and craftsmanship ensure a high-quality finish, making them a sought-after choice for homeowners looking for top-notch results.

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Geographic location also plays a significant role in determining the cost of residential painting. Different regions may have varying costs of living, which can influence the rates charged by professional painters. In areas with a higher cost of living, painters may charge more to cover their expenses and maintain a profitable business.

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The typical hourly rate for professional painters is $35 or more. This price reflects their expertise, how in-demand they are, and where they are located. Keep in mind that the normal per hour cost can change based on the details of the painting job, including the square footage to be covered, the intricacy of the pattern, and any extra services needed. The goal is to pay for the skill, popularity, and location of the painter while factoring in the scope of work.

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Conclusion

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In 2024, the average cost to paint a residential interior is $2 to $6 per square foot. Exteriors run $3 to $7 per square foot. So a medium-sized home between 1,500 to 2,000 square feet will likely cost between $3,000 and $14,000. As you budget for your painting project, carefully consider all the cost factors. With some smart planning, you can control expenses while still achieving beautiful painted surfaces.

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