How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Room? Pricing by Room Size
Room painting is quoted by project, not a flat rate. Here's what actually goes into the number, broken down by room size.
Painting is one of the few services where the honest answer to "how much" is "it depends on the room" — not as a dodge, but because square footage, ceiling height, and how many coats it needs all move the number independently.
Typical cost by room size
| Room | Approx. sq ft of wall | Typical range (2 coats) |
|---|---|---|
| Small bedroom (10x10) | ~320 sq ft | $350–$550 |
| Standard bedroom (12x12) | ~400 sq ft | $450–$700 |
| Living room (15x18) | ~600 sq ft | $650–$1,100 |
| Single accent wall | ~120 sq ft | $180–$320 |
| Hallway (long, narrow) | ~250 sq ft | $300–$500 |
What moves the price within a room
- Ceiling height — vaulted or 10ft+ ceilings need extra time and sometimes scaffolding
- Color change — going from dark to light (or vice versa) often needs a 3rd coat or primer
- Trim and baseboards — usually quoted separately, adds detail-heavy taping and cutting-in time
- Wall condition — nail holes, dings, or old texture mismatches need patching before painting
- Furniture in the room — moving and covering furniture vs. an empty room adds time
Interior vs. exterior
Exterior painting (fences, trim, doors) is priced differently — weather-rated paint, more prep for peeling or weathered surfaces, and access considerations (ladders, second story) all factor in separately from interior room pricing.
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📱 Text Russell nowFAQ
Do you supply the paint or do I?
Either works — paint can be picked up in your chosen brand and color, or you can supply paint you already have.
How many coats do I actually need?
Two coats is standard for a color change or fresh wall. A close color match to the existing wall may only need one, confirmed on site before starting.
Is patching included in the price?
Minor nail holes and small dings are included in standard room pricing. Larger drywall repair is quoted separately as its own line item.