Painting the interior of a house is one of the most effective ways to refresh its look and enhance its value. Whether you’re planning a DIY project or hiring professionals, understanding the regular cost to paint the interior of a house helps with budgeting and decision-making. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when estimating painting costs.
Factors That Affect Interior Painting Costs
Several key factors influence the total cost of painting the interior of a house:
1. Size of the House & Square Footage
Painting costs are typically calculated per square foot. The average cost per square foot for interior painting ranges from $2 to $6, including labor and materials.
- Small Home (1,000 sq. ft.) → $2,000 – $6,000
- Medium Home (2,000 sq. ft.) → $4,000 – $12,000
- Large Home (3,000+ sq. ft.) → $6,000 – $18,000
2. Number of Rooms
Some painters price jobs per room instead of square footage. The average cost per room is:
- Small Bedroom (10×10 ft.) → $300 – $800
- Master Bedroom (12×15 ft.) → $600 – $1,500
- Living Room (16×20 ft.) → $900 – $2,500
- Kitchen/Bathroom → $400 – $1,000
3. Paint Quality & Brand
The type of paint you choose impacts the cost significantly.
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- Basic Paint (Flat/Matte Finish) → $15 – $30 per gallon
- Mid-Range Paint (Eggshell/Satin Finish) → $30 – $60 per gallon
- Premium Paint (High-Durability, Low-VOC) → $60 – $100+ per gallon
4. Labor Costs
If hiring professionals, labor typically accounts for 60-70% of the total cost. On average, professional painters charge $20 to $50 per hour or $2 to $4 per square foot.
5. Additional Costs
- Ceilings & Trim → Adding ceilings or trim can increase costs by $1 – $2 per square foot.
- Wall Prep & Repairs → Patching holes, sanding, or priming may add $100 – $500 to the total.
- Multiple Coats → Dark walls or textured surfaces may require extra coats, increasing costs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
| Cost | $300 – $1,500 (Materials) | $2,000 – $10,000+ (Labor + Materials) |
| Time Required | Several Days | 1–5 Days (Efficient & Fast) |
| Quality | Depends on Skill Level | High-Quality, Even Finish |
| Effort | Requires Time & Skill | Hassle-Free Experience |
If you’re experienced and have time, DIY can save money. However, for a flawless, long-lasting finish, hiring professionals is often worth the investment.
Ways to Save on Interior Painting Costs
- Get Multiple Quotes – Compare prices from different painters.
- Use Mid-Range Paint – Avoid ultra-cheap or overly expensive options.
- Do Prep Work Yourself – Remove furniture, clean walls, or apply primer.
- Paint During Off-Seasons – Winter months often have lower labour rates.
Final Thoughts
The regular cost to paint the interior of a house varies based on size, paint type, labour, and extra services. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000 for professional painting, while DIY can cost as low as $300 to $1,500. By planning wisely and choosing the right approach, you can achieve a fresh, beautiful interior without overspending.