How much does professional painting generally cost?

The average cost to have a small 12-by-12 room painted by a professional is $200 to $400. The total cost for a 1,500 square foot home is about $1,100 to $2,000.

Professional painting contractors include the cost of the paint, tools and materials, and labor hours to the price. The paint alone costs up to $50 a gallon, with the average of paint necessary for a 12-by-12 room being about two gallons of paint. Other supplies needed are drop cloths, brushes, rollers, paint and primer.

Adding custom paint colors or having a room painted with intricate details and complicated trim adds to the cost. Painting a ceiling is also more expensive.