Average Cost to Paint a Room in 2025 (Per Sq Ft & Total)

Vincenzo Degregorio
Jun 9
3 min read

Introduction to Interior Painting Costs

Why Knowing Your Painting Budget Matters

Setting a realistic budget up front prevents sticker shock, helps you compare quotes, and ensures you don’t cut corners on prep or materials. Whether you DIY or hire pros, understanding typical pricing lets you plan around unexpected fees and get the look you want without breaking the bank.

What’s Included in the Average Cost Range

Most estimates cover:

Labor (cutting-in, rolling, trim work)
Basic materials (drop cloths, tape, rollers, brushes)
Standard paint (two coats on walls) They generally do not include: primer, drywall repair, accent walls, ceilings, or specialty finishes.

National Average vs. Massachusetts Rates

National Average Cost Overview

Per Sq Ft: $2.00–$6.00
Typical Room Total: $300–$1,000
2024 National Average: $624 per room (Improovy survey)

Factors Influencing Massachusetts Labor Rates

Cost of living: Higher in Greater Boston than U.S. average.
Licensing & regulations: MA contractors register with the Home Improvement Contractor Board (verify here).
Seasonality: Winter slow-downs can yield 10–15% off peak rates.
Local demand: Busy spring/fall seasons push rates toward the upper end of the national range.

Massachusetts Pro Range: Expect $3.00–$7.50 per sq ft, or $450–$1,250 for an average 12×12 room.

Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown

Room Type	Avg. Size	National Range	MA Pro Range
12×12 Bedroom	~144 sq ft	$300–$750	$550–$1,050
Living Room	~225 sq ft	$500–$1,200	$675–$1,350
Bathroom	~60 sq ft	$150–$300	$225–$375
Kitchen	~180 sq ft	$400–$900	$600–$1,125
Hallway/Entry	~100 sq ft	$200–$400	$300–$525

Cost to Paint a 12×12 Bedroom

Walls only: $550–$750 in MA (two coats, standard prep).
Includes: minor patching, tape, two coats of mid-range paint.

Cost to Paint a Living Room

Larger wall area and possible trim work push MA costs to $800–$1,100.
Vaulted ceilings or heavy prep can add $100–$200.

Cost to Paint a Bathroom

Moisture-resistant paint needed—expect $225–$350.
Ventilation checks and caulking often included.

Cost to Paint a Kitchen or Dining Area

Cabinet touch-ups and backsplash prep: $650–$1,000.
High-traffic zones may require semi-gloss finishes.

Cost to Paint Hallways & Stairwells

Corners and railings increase labor—$300–$525 typical.
Bundle with adjacent rooms to reduce per-sq-ft rates.

Additional Cost Drivers

Paint Type & Quality

Budget brands: $20–$35/gal (Behr, Valspar)
Premium brands: $45–$70/gal (Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams)
Low-VOC options: may add $5–$15/gal (EPA IAQ Guide)

Surface Preparation & Repairs

Minor patching: $50–$100 per room
Extensive drywall repair: $200–$500 extra

Ceilings, Trim, Accent Walls & Multiple Coats

Ceilings: +$1.00–$2.00 per sq ft
Trim & doors: +$1–$3 per linear foot
Accent walls: $75–$200 additional
Extra coats: +$0.50 per sq ft

How to Estimate Your Project

Measuring Wall Area Accurately

Calculate (width × height) for each wall, subtract doors/windows.
Use an online tool like the Benjamin Moore Coverage Calculator.

Calculating Paint & Material Needs

Coverage: ~350 sq ft per gallon; add 10% for waste.
Supplies: brushes, rollers, tape, drop cloths—budget $50–$100.

DIY vs. Professional Quotes

DIY: material cost + your time (~$400 total for a 12×12 room).
Pro: labor, materials, prep, cleanup, warranty—use this guide to vet quotes.

Tips to Save on Painting Costs

Bundling Multiple Rooms

Group adjacent rooms to reduce travel and setup fees by up to 20%.

Timing Your Project for Discounts

Book during off-peak months (December–February) when pros offer lower rates.

Choosing Cost-Effective Finishes

Eggshell and satin finishes balance durability and price; reserve semi-gloss for trim only.

FAQs on Painting Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Have a 12×12 Room Professionally Painted?

Expect $550–$1,050 in Massachusetts, depending on prep and finish.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a 20×20 Bedroom?

National: $800–$1,500
MA Pro Range: $1,200–$1,750

What Do Most Painters Charge Hourly?

$40–$75 per painter-hour; small jobs may use hourly billing.

What Is the Average Labor Cost to Paint a Room?

$300–$600 per room for labor alone in Greater Boston.

How Much Should It Cost to Paint the Interior of a 2,000 sq ft House?

National: $4,000–$12,000
MA Range: $6,000–$15,000 (depending on room count and finishes)

By using this Average Cost to Paint a Room breakdown—tailored to Massachusetts—you’ll confidently plan and budget your next painting project. For personalized quotes, visit our Interior Painting Services page.