How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Bedroom?

AvatarByAlison Socha Furniture Styles & Types

Painting a bedroom is one of the most effective ways to refresh your living space, adding personality and warmth with just a few coats of paint. Whether you’re looking to create a calming retreat or a vibrant sanctuary, understanding the costs involved is essential before picking up that brush. But how much does it actually cost to paint a bedroom? This question often arises for homeowners and renters alike who want to balance quality, style, and budget.

The price to paint a bedroom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the room, the type of paint used, and whether you hire a professional or decide to tackle the project yourself. Beyond just the paint, additional elements like prep work, repairs, and the number of coats needed can influence the overall expense. Knowing what to expect financially can help you plan effectively and avoid surprises along the way.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations that impact the cost of painting a bedroom. From material choices to labor costs, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what goes into the pricing and how to make informed decisions that suit your style and budget. Whether you’re aiming for a quick refresh or a complete makeover, understanding the costs upfront will set you on the path to a beautifully painted bedroom without breaking the bank.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Painting a Bedroom

Several variables affect the total cost to paint a bedroom, making it essential to understand these elements before budgeting. The size of the room is the most obvious factor; larger rooms require more paint and labor. Ceiling height can also influence price since higher ceilings demand additional equipment like ladders or scaffolding and more time to cover vertical surfaces.

The condition of the walls plays a significant role. Walls with cracks, holes, or peeling paint need preparation work such as patching, sanding, and priming, which increases labor costs. The type of paint used impacts price as well; premium paints with special finishes or eco-friendly formulations tend to cost more per gallon than standard options.

Labor rates vary by region and the painter’s expertise. Hiring a professional can be more expensive but usually results in better quality and durability. Additional features in the bedroom, such as trim, molding, or built-in furniture, require extra attention and time to paint, adding to the overall expense.

Breakdown of Typical Costs

Understanding how different components contribute to the total cost will help in estimating a realistic budget. The main cost categories include:

  • Paint and supplies
  • Labor and preparation
  • Additional features (trim, ceiling, doors)
  • Cleanup and disposal
Cost Component Description Typical Price Range
Paint and Supplies Includes primer, paint, brushes, rollers, tape, and drop cloths $50 – $150
Labor Preparation, painting, and finishing by professionals $200 – $600
Wall Preparation Repairing cracks, sanding, and priming walls $50 – $200
Trim and Doors Painting baseboards, window/door frames, and doors $50 – $150
Cleanup Removing tape, cleaning brushes, and waste disposal $20 – $50

These ranges reflect average costs for a standard bedroom size of about 12’ x 12’. Larger rooms or specialty finishes will push costs toward the higher end.

Cost Estimates Based on Room Size

Room dimensions greatly influence the quantity of paint and labor required. Below is a guide to approximate costs based on common bedroom sizes.

Room Size (Square Feet) Estimated Paint Needed (Gallons) Estimated Labor Hours Estimated Total Cost Range
100 (e.g., 10’ x 10’) 1 – 1.5 4 – 6 $250 – $450
144 (e.g., 12’ x 12’) 1.5 – 2 6 – 8 $350 – $650
200 (e.g., 14’ x 14’) 2 – 2.5 8 – 10 $450 – $800
250+ 2.5+ 10+ $600 – $1,000+

These figures assume standard ceiling heights of 8 to 9 feet and include one coat of paint over properly prepped walls.

Additional Costs to Consider

When planning your painting project, keep in mind these potential extra expenses that may arise:

  • Multiple Coats: Dark or vibrant colors may require two or more coats, increasing paint quantity and labor time.
  • Specialty Finishes: Textured, glossy, or faux finishes require more skill and materials, raising the cost.
  • Ceiling Painting: If you choose to paint the ceiling as well, expect an additional 20-30% increase in labor and materials.
  • Furniture Moving: If the painter must move furniture or protect delicate items, this could add extra fees.
  • Wall Treatments: Removing wallpaper or other wall coverings prior to painting requires extra work and cost.
  • Permit Fees: In some jurisdictions, permits are required for certain painting projects, especially in multi-family buildings.

Taking these factors into account will help you develop a more accurate budget and avoid surprises during the project.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Paint a Bedroom

The total expense of painting a bedroom depends on several key variables that affect labor, materials, and overall project complexity. Understanding these factors will help you estimate a realistic budget for your painting job.

Room Size and Surface Area: Larger bedrooms require more paint and labor time, directly increasing the cost. The surface area includes walls, ceilings, and any additional architectural features such as closets or built-in shelves.

Paint Quality and Type: Paints vary in price based on brand, finish, and durability. Premium paints offer better coverage, longevity, and sometimes mildew resistance, but can cost significantly more per gallon.

Preparation Work: Proper surface preparation can involve cleaning, sanding, repairing holes or cracks, and priming. The more extensive the prep work, the higher the labor cost.

Number of Coats: Most projects require at least two coats for optimal coverage and color depth. If you are covering a dark or stained surface, additional coats may be necessary.

Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by region and painter experience. Some painters charge by the hour, while others provide a flat rate based on project scope.

Additional Features: Painting trim, baseboards, doors, or ceilings increases labor and materials. Custom finishes or accent walls also add to the cost.

Average Price Ranges for Painting a Bedroom

Pricing can fluctuate significantly based on the factors above, but the following table provides typical cost ranges for painting an average-sized bedroom (approximately 12′ x 14′).

Service Component Typical Cost Range Notes
Paint (1 gallon, mid-quality) $25 – $60 One gallon covers approx. 350 sq. ft.
Primer (if needed) $15 – $40 per gallon Essential for new drywall or dark colors
Labor (professional painter) $200 – $500 Includes preparation and two coats on walls
Additional painting (trim, ceiling) $50 – $150 Depends on room features and detail work

Combining these estimates, the total cost to professionally paint a bedroom typically falls between $300 and $750. DIY projects can reduce labor costs but may require more time and effort.

How to Calculate Paint Quantity and Cost

Accurately estimating the amount of paint needed avoids waste and unexpected expenses. Follow these steps for calculation:

  • Measure the walls: Calculate the total square footage by measuring the length and height of each wall and summing the results.
  • Subtract openings: Deduct the square footage of doors and windows, as these areas will not be painted.
  • Determine paint coverage: Check the paint can label for coverage information, usually around 350 square feet per gallon.
  • Calculate gallons required: Divide the total paintable area by the coverage per gallon, then round up to the nearest gallon.
  • Account for coats: Multiply the gallons needed by the number of coats planned (typically two).

For example, a bedroom with 400 square feet of wall space, minus 40 square feet for doors and windows, leaves 360 square feet. Dividing by 350 sq. ft. coverage equals approximately 1.03 gallons per coat. For two coats, purchase at least 2.1 gallons, rounding up to 3 gallons to ensure coverage and touch-ups.

Cost Breakdown for DIY vs. Professional Painting

Choosing between hiring a professional and painting the bedroom yourself affects both cost and quality. Below is a comparative breakdown.

Cost Element DIY Painting Professional Painting
Paint and Supplies $50 – $100 $50 – $100 (included in quote)
Labor Free (your own time) $200 – $500
Preparation Materials (primer, tape, sandpaper) $20 – $50 Included or minimal charge
Tools (brushes, rollers, trays) $30 – $60 (one-time purchase) Included
Total Estimated Cost $100 – $210 $300 – $750

Expert Insights on How Much It Costs to Paint a Bedroom

Jessica Martinez (Professional Interior Painter and Color Consultant). The cost to paint a bedroom typically ranges between $300 and $800, depending on factors such as room size, wall condition, and quality of paint used. Preparation work like patching holes or sanding can increase the price, but investing in premium paint often results in better coverage and longevity, ultimately providing greater value.

David Chen (Residential Contractor and Project Estimator, HomePro Services). When estimating how much to paint a bedroom, labor costs make up the largest portion of the budget. For an average 12×12 bedroom, expect labor and materials combined to fall between $350 and $600. Additional features such as crown molding, multiple colors, or textured walls will add to the overall expense.

Emily Foster (Certified Interior Designer and Renovation Specialist). The price to paint a bedroom varies not only by size but also by geographic location and contractor expertise. In urban areas, rates tend to be higher due to increased labor costs. Homeowners should also consider the time frame for project completion, as rush jobs may incur premium charges, influencing the total cost significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is the cost to paint a bedroom typically calculated?
The cost is usually based on the room’s size, wall condition, number of coats required, paint quality, and labor charges.

What is the average price range to paint a standard bedroom?
For a standard 10×12 foot bedroom, painting costs generally range from $300 to $800, including labor and materials.

Does the type of paint affect the overall cost?
Yes, premium or specialty paints cost more but offer better coverage and durability, impacting the total price.

Are there additional costs for prepping the bedroom before painting?
Yes, expenses may increase if significant surface repairs, priming, or removal of wallpaper are necessary before painting.

Can I reduce costs by painting the bedroom myself?
DIY painting can save labor costs, but requires time, skill, and proper tools to achieve professional results.

How long does it typically take to paint a bedroom?
Professional painters usually complete a bedroom in one to two days, depending on prep work and number of coats applied.
When considering how much it costs to paint a bedroom, several factors come into play, including the size of the room, the quality of paint used, the number of coats required, and whether professional painters are hired. On average, painting a standard bedroom can range from $300 to $800, but this estimate can vary significantly based on location, preparation work needed, and additional services such as priming or repairing walls.

It is important to account for both material and labor costs to get an accurate budget. High-quality paints and finishes may increase upfront expenses but often provide better durability and coverage, potentially reducing the need for frequent repainting. Hiring experienced professionals can ensure a smooth, efficient process and a polished final result, although it will add to the overall cost compared to a DIY approach.

Ultimately, understanding these variables allows homeowners to make informed decisions that balance cost, quality, and convenience. Planning ahead and obtaining multiple quotes can help manage expenses and achieve the desired aesthetic outcome for a bedroom painting project. Proper preparation and realistic budgeting are key to a successful and satisfying paint job.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.