Thinking about giving your cozy NYC apartment a makeover? A fresh coat of paint is the quickest way to breathe new life into your space without breaking the bank. But here’s the million-dollar question—or should we say, the few-thousand-dollar question: what’s the actual damage to your wallet?
Here is a dive into the nitty-gritty of painting costs in the city that never sleeps.
Breaking Down Your Budget
When calculating the cost to paint 600 sq. ft apartment, you’re looking at anywhere between $1,800 to $3,600 for a professional job in NYC. Yes, that’s quite a range! The final number depends on everything from your paint quality to whether your walls need serious TLC before the first brushstroke.
What You’ll Pay Per Square Foot
NYC painters typically charge between $3 to $6 per square foot, with Manhattan commanding premium rates around $6.79 and Brooklyn hovering at $5.71 per square foot. Here’s what influences that number:
- Paint quality: Budget-friendly options start at $20 per gallon, while premium paints can exceed $100
- Number of coats: Darker colors demand extra coverage, adding to both material and labor costs
- Wall condition: Cracks, holes, and imperfections require prep work that increases your bill
Labor Costs Decoded
Professional painters in NYC charge $50 per hour on average, though rates can range from $40 to $80 depending on experience level. For a 600 sq. ft apartment, expect the job to take 1-2 days with a two-person crew.
The Math That Matters
If you’re working with contractors charging by the day (roughly $400 per painter), a two-day project with two painters lands you at $1,600 for labor alone. Add materials—primer, paint, supplies—and you’re typically adding another $300 to $600 to your total.
