Repairs & Maintenance
Paint Cost Calculator
Use this paint cost calculator to estimate gallons, materials, and professional labor for interior or exterior painting projects.
Free planning tool
Estimated Project Range
Low$2,520
Average$3,073
High$3,626
Cost per sq ft$3
Estimated gallons7 gallons
Cost Breakdown
Paint and supplies$432
Labor$2,389
Prep allowance$252
What affects this estimate
- Paintable surface area is more useful than floor area.
- Exterior access, repairs, trim, primer, and color changes can increase labor.
Assumptions You Can Adjust
- Paint coverage is estimated at about 350 sq ft per gallon before waste.
- Professional pricing includes typical prep and labor, but repairs may add cost.
- This calculator provides a general estimate for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on your location, labor rates, material choices, permits, contractor pricing, and project complexity. This is not professional construction, financial, or legal advice.
What Can Make the Cost Higher
- Exterior work usually costs more due to preparation, access, and weather exposure.
- Trim, repairs, high ceilings, and color changes can add labor.
- Premium paint increases material cost but may improve coverage and durability.
How to Reduce Cost
- Patch and clean surfaces before painters arrive.
- Use fewer colors and standard finishes.
- DIY small rooms if you have the time and tools.
When to Call a Professional
- Call a pro for multi-story exteriors, lead paint concerns, major drywall repair, or difficult access.
- Ask what prep, primer, caulk, and cleanup are included.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Estimating floor area instead of paintable wall or surface area.
- Forgetting primer, supplies, and second coats.
- Ignoring surface repairs before painting.
Example Calculation
A 900 sq ft interior project with standard paint and two professional coats estimates gallons, materials, labor, and total planning cost.
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Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides a general estimate for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on your location, labor rates, material choices, permits, contractor pricing, and project complexity. This is not professional construction, financial, or legal advice.