A fresh coat of paint is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to completely transform the look and feel of your home's interior. But while it's a popular DIY project, hiring a professional ensures a flawless, long-lasting finish. So, how much should you budget to have the interior of your house painted?

Average Cost to Paint a House Interior

Nationally, the average cost to hire a professional to paint the interior of a house ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot. For a single 12x12 foot room, you can expect to pay between $400 and $900. To paint the entire interior of a 2,000 sq. ft. house, the cost could range from $4,000 to $12,000.

These are just averages, of course. The final price tag depends on several key factors.

Key Factors That Influence Painting Costs

• Labor: This is the biggest chunk of the cost, typically making up 70-85% of the total price. Labor rates vary significantly by location.
• Prep Work: The amount of prep needed will heavily influence the cost. This includes patching holes, sanding, and extensive taping around trim, windows, and ceilings. Walls in poor condition require more prep and will cost more.
• Paint Quality: A gallon of paint can cost anywhere from $20 to $80 or more. Higher-quality paints (like those with built-in primer or scrubbable finishes) cost more upfront but last longer and look better.
• Ceilings, Trim, and Doors: The price will increase if you also want to paint the ceilings, baseboards, window trim, and doors. These elements require more detailed work and add to the labor time.
• Number of Coats: If you are making a dramatic color change (e.g., from dark blue to off-white), it will likely require a primer and two or more coats of paint, increasing both material and labor costs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro Painter

Painting is a manageable DIY project for many homeowners, and doing it yourself can save you thousands of dollars in labor. However, consider the trade-offs.

• Time: A professional crew can often paint an entire house in a few days, a project that could take a DIYer several weeks of evenings and weekends.
• Quality: Professionals have the experience and equipment to produce a perfect finish. They know how to properly prep surfaces and create clean lines, resulting in a job that looks better and lasts longer.
• Convenience: Hiring a pro means you don't have to deal with the hassle of moving furniture, buying supplies, the painting itself, and the cleanup.

Ultimately, whether you decide to DIY or hire a pro, understanding the costs involved is the first step. By considering these factors, you can create a realistic budget and ensure your painting project is a success, giving your home a fresh, new look you'll love for years to come.