ServiCover📌 Key Takeaway: Interior painting typically costs $2-$6 per square foot of floor area, depending on how much is included. Walls are the base price; ceilings, trim, doors and accent colors usually cost extra.
Whole-Interior Estimates
| Home Size | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | $2,000-$6,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $3,000-$9,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $4,000-$12,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | $5,000-$15,000 |
| 3,000 sq ft | $6,000-$18,000 |
Rough Per-Room Estimates
Using the $2-$6 per square foot range, a 12×12 bedroom (144 sq ft) might run about $300-$850 for walls, while a larger 300 sq ft living room could run $600-$1,800. Rooms with tall ceilings, lots of trim or dark-to-light color changes land at the higher end.
What Adds to the Price
| Item | Why It Costs More |
|---|---|
| Ceilings | Slower work and more masking; often quoted separately |
| Trim, baseboards and doors | Detail work with brushes rather than rollers |
| Drywall repair | Patching holes and cracks before painting |
| Major color changes | Extra coats and sometimes tinted primer |
| High ceilings / stairwells | Scaffolding or tall ladders |
| Furniture moving | Time spent protecting and moving contents |
Paint Costs
Interior paint typically runs $15-$60+ per gallon, with primer at $20-$60. A gallon covers roughly 350-400 sq ft of wall per coat, depending on the product and surface.
How to Save
- Move furniture and remove wall hangings yourself.
- Keep ceilings white and limit accent walls.
- Paint several rooms at once to reduce setup costs.
- Ask whether the painter offers a discount for flexible scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many coats of paint do walls need?
Two coats is standard for even coverage. Dramatic color changes or fresh drywall may need primer plus two coats.
Which paint finish is best for each room?
Flat or matte for ceilings, eggshell or satin for living areas and bedrooms, and satin or semi-gloss for kitchens, bathrooms and trim.