Question 1

How much does it cost to paint a room?

Accepted Answer

National baseline, before Washington adjustments: A 12×12 bedroom’s walls (about 330 sq ft) run roughly $600–$1,000 with mid-grade paint; add the ceiling and baseboards and it’s closer to $800–$1,550. Two painting companies’ published prices for a 10×12 room’s walls are $400 (Indianapolis area) and $550–$650 (Cleveland).

Question 2

How much paint do I need?

Accepted Answer

A gallon covers about 350–400 sq ft per coat (Sherwin-Williams). For two coats on 330 sq ft of wall, buy 2 gallons. Primer covers less, about 200–300 sq ft per gallon.

Question 3

Does painting the ceiling cost extra?

Accepted Answer

National baseline, before Washington adjustments: Yes. Published painter prices work out to about $0.70–$2.40 per sq ft of ceiling, with small rooms costing more per foot, and more again for tall rooms.

Question 4

Do painters move furniture?

Accepted Answer

National baseline, before Washington adjustments: Most push light furniture to the middle of the room and cover it at no charge. One Chicago painter says heavy or fragile pieces can add $75–$150 per room.

Question 5

Is there a minimum charge for small painting jobs?

Accepted Answer

National baseline, before Washington adjustments: Some painters have one. A Cleveland company’s published interior minimum is $750, paint included, so one small wall can cost as much as a room. Ask before you book.

Component	Category	Price Range	Unit
Painting labor (prep and two coats)	labor	$1.56 – $2.60	sq ft
Paint (two coats, mid-grade)	material	$0.32 – $0.53	sq ft

How Much Does Interior Painting Cost in Washington, District of Columbia?

$1.88 – $3.13

Cost Breakdown in Washington

Cost Factors in Washington, District of Columbia

What Affects Pricing

Local Price Adjustments

Frequently Asked Questions

References

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