Thinking about giving a room a fresh coat of paint but unsure what it might cost? Hiring a handyman can be a smart move, but the price often depends on more than you might expect.
This guide by Santino’s A+ Handyman Service lets you have a closer look at what you should expect and what influences the final cost.
How Much Does a Handyman Charge to Paint a Room?
For most homeowners, interior painting costs range from $975 to $3,100, but painting just one room is usually much more affordable. The final price depends on several factors, including the room’s size and the type and quality of paint. Even small details, such as the finish, can increase the overall cost.
As of 2025, a handyman typically charges around $1,100 to paint a room, with most prices falling between $200 and $2,000. The exact amount depends on factors such as the size of the room, the type of paint, the number of coats needed, and the professional you hire.
Top 5 Factors Affecting Painting Costs
The painting cost varies, typically depending on a variety of factors. Below are top 5 factors that could affect the painting cost of your room.
Room Size and Shape
The overall size and layout of the room play a major role in determining cost. Larger rooms naturally require more paint and time, while unique shapes, extra corners, or detailed architecture can add to the complexity.
Surface Condition and Prep Work
Before painting begins, the condition of your walls must be considered. Smooth surfaces need minimal prep, but cracks, holes, or other imperfections require repair, which can add $100 to $300 or more.
Paint Quality and Type
The type and quality of paint you choose will also affect the final cost. Latex and oil-based paints come in finishes like flat, satin, or semi-gloss, each with different pricing and performance. Lower-grade paint may cost $20 to $30 per gallon, while premium options can reach $50 or more.
Number of Coats
In most cases, two coats are recommended for even coverage and long-lasting results. While a single coat may sometimes be enough, additional coats increase both material and labor costs. On average, one gallon covers about 400 square feet with two coats, making coat count an important detail in estimating your total.
Labor Costs and Hourly Rates
Finally, labor can make up a significant part of your total expense. Handymen may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee, depending on the scope of the project and your location.
For a standard-sized room, labor typically ranges from $200 to $500 or more. Gathering quotes from multiple providers is the best way to ensure you’re getting fair value.
Cost Breakdown by Room Type
The price of your painting project also depends on the type of room in question. For instance, bathrooms are the smallest room in the house and the least expensive to paint while painting living rooms is the most costly. Keep in mind that some larger rooms, like kitchens, can be inexpensive to paint since a large portion of the walls is covered by cabinets or backsplashes.
Bedrooms
Painting a bedroom usually costs between $300 and $750, depending on size and wall condition. Small bedrooms average around $468, while medium-sized ones range from $524 to $672. These rooms often require standard paint in a single color and involve minimal surface prep.
Living Rooms
Living rooms are the most expensive to paint, with costs ranging from $900 to $2,000. A large room averages around $724, but the price can rise due to furniture moving, floor protection, and complex layouts.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Kitchen painting typically costs $300 to $750, with lower wall space due to cabinets reducing paint needs. Bathrooms are smaller and cost around $250 to $500. Higher-quality, washable paint is recommended, especially in kitchens.
Painting a Room: DIY vs Hiring a Professional
While painting a room yourself is a manageable DIY task, it can be time-consuming and physically demanding. A single room may take up to nine hours, not including the effort of moving furniture and preparing the space.
Don’t let a small budget stand in the way of achieving a beautifully painted room. Hiring a handyman not only saves you time but also ensures a more professional finish with less stress on your part.
Receive an Accurate Estimate
Understanding the project scope is essential for an accurate estimate. Getting quotes from multiple painters can help you save money and ensure you are not paying more.
And if you need a flawless finish without going through the hassle, trust our skilled handymen at Santino’s A+ Handyman Service. With years of hands-on experience our expert handyman contractors will give you an accurate estimate of how much you should expect to pay, so you are never caught off-guard with hidden quotes.