What should you charge for painting in 2026? Average rates range $1–$4 per sq ft. See typical job costs, what affects pricing, and build a professional proposal.
Typical market range. Actual costs vary by region, job scope, and provider experience.
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Interior painting (per room) | $300–$800 |
| Exterior house painting | $2,500–$8,000 |
| Cabinet painting | $1,200–$3,500 |
| Deck or fence staining | $500–$2,000 |
Prices are U.S. market averages for 2026. Local rates vary.
Ready to send a proposal?
Use our free painting proposal template. Sample proposal, section-by-section tips, and what clients want to see.
View Painting template →A standard bedroom runs $300–$600 for walls only, or $500–$900 including ceiling and trim. Prices depend on room size, paint quality, and number of coats needed.
Quality exterior paint lasts 7–10 years on wood, 10–15 years on stucco or masonry. Proper prep work — cleaning, sanding, and priming — is the biggest factor in longevity.
Most contractors prefer to source paint — they get trade discounts and can guarantee color consistency. If you supply it yourself, factor in that they won't warranty color matching or coverage.
BidMaker lets you quote painting jobs in minutes. Set your rates once — proposals write themselves.
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See a sample painting proposal with tips and what to include.
View Painting TemplateFree templates with sample proposals, section breakdowns, and tips for winning the job.
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Want rates broken down by state? Use the contractor rate calculator → BLS wage data with markup applied, for every trade in every state.