Thinking about refreshing your NYC space with a new coat of paint? You’re onto something! A fresh paint job is a smart investment because it is affordable and has the potential to increase the value of your property without breaking the bank.
What Influences Painting Costs?
If you want a better understanding of NYC’s average painting cost, you have to look at the factors that affect the pricing. These New York factors include:
- Square footage: Bigger rooms naturally require more paint and labor time
- Surface preparation: Patching cracks, sanding, and priming add to costs
- Paint quality: Premium paints cost more upfront but deliver better coverage and longevity
- Accessibility: High ceilings, tight spaces, or furniture-packed rooms require extra effort
- Number of coats: Darker colors typically need multiple coats for even coverage
- Trim and detail work: Crown moldings and intricate woodwork increase labor time
NYC Pricing: What You’ll Pay
On to the money talk. The price in New York is always going to be higher than the average price, but that’s the trade-off for living in the best city in the world.
Per-Room Breakdown
Expect to spend $400 to $900 for a standard-sized 12×12 bedroom (roughly 150 square feet of wall space). These estimates include the labor and expenses for 2 coats of quality paint.
If your living room has large cathedral ceilings, expect to spend over $800 to $1,500, depending on complexity.
Painter Rates in the City
In NYC, painters usually charge:
- $50-75 per hour for experienced professionals
- $3-6 per square foot for full-service jobs
- $300-500 per day for project-based pricing
Money-Saving Strategies
Want to trim costs? Here’s how:
- Supply your own paint: Purchase quality paint yourself (expect $30-80 per gallon) and save on markup
- Prep the space: Move furniture, fill minor holes, and remove wall art before painters arrive
- Schedule strategically: Off-season bookings sometimes come with discounts
