How to Get Accurate Price for Interior Painting

Vincenzo Degregorio
Jun 9
3 min read

Estimating the price for interior painting accurately ensures your project stays on budget and that you hire the right professionals. This guide will walk you through every step—from vetting contractors to understanding line-item pricing—so you can confidently compare quotes and schedule your work.

Why Accurate Price for Interior Painting Matter

Avoid Budget Surprises

Unexpected fees (primer, drywall repair, accent walls) can add up fast. A comprehensive estimate foresees these items so you won’t face surprise charges mid-project.

Key Factors Affecting Price for Interior Painting

Square footage & ceiling height
Surface condition (fresh drywall vs. patched walls)
Number of coats (one vs. two)
Paint quality (budget vs. premium or low-VOC)
Detail work (trim, windows, doors)

How to Find Qualified Interior Painters Near You

Verifying Licenses & Insurance

Check the Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor Board: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/verify-a-home-improvement-contractor-license
Confirm both general liability and workers’ comp are current.

Reading Local Reviews & Ratings

Look for ★★★★½+ on Google, Yelp, and Angi.
Seek out projects similar in size and scope to yours.
Ask for before-and-after photos of recent interior jobs.

Understanding Price for Interior Painting Estimates

What a Standard Quote Includes

Labor: cutting-in, rolling, trim work, cleanup
Materials: drop cloths, tape, brushes, rollers
Paint: two coats of standard interior paint

Common Exclusions & Hidden Fees

Primer or stain-blocking undercoats
Extensive drywall repair or wallpaper removal
Accent walls, ceilings, built-ins, cabinet repainting
Travel fees or disposal charges

Room-by-Room Pricing Guide

Bathroom (6′ × 9′)

Total cost: $500–$700

Walls: $270
Ceiling: $100
Baseboards: $60
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Standard Bedroom (12′ × 12′)

Total cost: $700–$900

Walls: $275
Accent wall (optional): $190
Ceiling: $110
Baseboard molding: $95
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Living Room (18′ × 24′)

Total cost: $1,200–$1,700

Walls: $560
Ceiling: $260
Baseboards, crown, or chair rail (each): $155
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Kitchen with Eat-In Area (16′ × 28′)

Total cost: $1,200–$1,500

Walls: $600
Ceiling: $350
Baseboard molding: $330
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Kitchen Cabinets

Total cost depends on cabinet count; see chart below.

Item	Unit Price
Drawer face (each)	$155
Cabinet door (both sides)	$155
Cabinet side (each)	$155

Primary Bedroom (15′ × 20′)

Total cost: $900–$1,500

Walls: $385
Ceiling: $210
Baseboard molding: $130
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Primary Bathroom (12′ × 14′)

Total cost: $700–$900

Walls: $285
Ceiling: $115
Baseboard molding: $200
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Foyer with 14′ Ceilings

Total cost: $1,800–$2,300

Walls & staircase: $910
Molding, wainscot & trim: $600–$850
Ceiling: $355

Dining Room (14′ × 16′)

Total cost: $900–$1,500

Walls: $610
Ceiling: $185
Baseboards: $125
Crown molding: $125
Wainscot: $125
Door & frame (per side): $115
Window frame & sill: $35
Window sash (per window): $85

Additional Estimate Factors

Surface Preparation & Repairs

Minor patching: add $50–$100
Extensive drywall or plaster repair: $200–$500

Paint Quality, Finishes & Number of Coats

Budget paint: $20–$35/gal
Premium paint: $45–$70/gal
Low-VOC option: +$5–$15/gal
Extra coat: +$0.50 per sq ft

Trim, Doors & Ceiling Upcharges

Trim & door frames: $1–$3 per linear foot
Ceiling painting: +$1.00–$2.00 per sq ft
Accent walls or specialty finishes: $75–$200

How to Schedule & Prepare for Your Estimate

Information to Provide Pros

Square footage and dimensions of each room
Photos of existing wall conditions
Desired paint brand and finish
Any known repairs or prep needs

Sample Questionnaire for Bids

What is your hourly and project rate?
Does the quote include prep, materials, and cleanup?
What warranties do you offer?
How long will the project take?
Can you provide references or past project photos?

FAQs on Price for Interior Painting

How Do Painters Calculate Cost per Sq Ft?

They divide total labor and material costs by the wall area in square feet, factoring in prep and finish complexity.

What Do Painters Charge per Hour?

Typically $40–$75 per painter-hour, depending on experience and region.

How Long Are Estimates Valid?

Most quotes are valid for 30–60 days; verify expiration to avoid rate changes.

Best Time of Year to Schedule Painting?

Off-peak winter months (Dec–Feb) often yield discounts of 10–15% on labor rates.

By following these steps and using this room-by-room guide, you’ll secure accurate, detailed price for interior painting estimates—ensuring your project meets your expectations on time and on budget. For personalized quotes, schedule your free estimate today.