How Much Does Paint Cost in 2025?

Paint Material Costs by Brand

Paint quality significantly affects the final appearance and durability of your project. Here's what you can expect to pay for different paint brands and quality levels in 2025.

Budget Paint Brands ($20-30/gallon)

• Glidden: $22-28/gal - Basic coverage, requires 2-3 coats
• Kilz: $20-26/gal - Good primers, adequate finish paint
• Valspar Signature: $24-30/gal - Entry-level from major brand

Best for: Rental properties, garages, basements, or areas with low visibility

Mid-Grade Paint Brands ($35-50/gallon)

• Behr Premium Plus: $30-38/gal - Excellent value, good coverage
• Valspar Reserve: $35-45/gal - Solid mid-tier performer
• Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint: $50-65/gal - Professional grade

Best for: Most residential interior and exterior projects, owner-occupied homes

Premium Paint Brands ($55-75/gallon)

• Behr Marquee: $45-52/gal - One-coat coverage guarantee
• Benjamin Moore Regal Select: $60-75/gal - Professional favorite
• Sherwin-Williams Duration: $60-75/gal - Lifetime warranty

Best for: High-end homes, dramatic color changes, long-term investment

Ultra-Premium Paint Brands ($80-100/gallon)

• Benjamin Moore Aura: $75-90/gal - Zero VOC, rich colors
• Sherwin-Williams Emerald: $75-95/gal - Superior washability
• Farrow & Ball: $110-140/gal - Luxury European paint

Best for: Luxury homes, designer projects, heirloom quality finish

Total Project Costs

Understanding total project costs helps you budget accurately. These estimates include materials, labor, and supplies for professional painting.

Interior Room Costs

• Small bedroom (10x12): $400-800 DIY, $800-1,500 professional
• Master bedroom (14x16): $600-1,200 DIY, $1,200-2,200 professional
• Living room (15x18): $800-1,400 DIY, $1,500-2,800 professional
• Kitchen (12x14): $500-900 DIY, $1,000-1,800 professional
• Bathroom (8x10): $300-600 DIY, $600-1,200 professional

Whole House Interior Costs

• 1,000 sq ft apartment: $2,000-4,000 DIY, $4,000-8,000 professional
• 1,500 sq ft home: $3,000-6,000 DIY, $6,000-12,000 professional
• 2,500 sq ft home: $5,000-10,000 DIY, $10,000-20,000 professional
• 3,500 sq ft home: $7,000-14,000 DIY, $14,000-28,000 professional

Exterior House Painting Costs

• 1,000 sq ft home: $3,000-6,000 (one story)
• 1,500 sq ft home: $4,500-9,000 (one to two story)
• 2,500 sq ft home: $7,500-15,000 (two story)
• 3,500 sq ft home: $10,500-21,000 (two to three story)

Note: Exterior costs include paint, primer, caulk, and trim work. Two coats standard.

Additional Cost Factors

Preparation and Repair Work

• Wall repair/patching: $1-3 per square foot
• Drywall texture matching: $2-4 per square foot
• Trim/baseboard painting: $1-3 per linear foot
• Popcorn ceiling removal: $1-2 per square foot
• Cabinet painting: $3,000-10,000 for full kitchen

Supplies and Equipment

• Primer: $20-40 per gallon (usually needed)
• Painter's tape: $5-8 per roll
• Drop cloths: $10-30 depending on size
• Brushes and rollers: $20-50 for quality set
• Paint tray and liner: $5-15
• Ladder rental: $30-60 per day if needed

How to Save Money on Paint

• Watch for sales: Major retailers offer 20-40% off paint during holidays
• Buy "oops" paint: Mistinted paint at 50-75% discount for non-critical areas
• Do prep work yourself: Save 30-50% by doing prep and cleanup
• Buy in bulk: Five-gallon buckets cost less per gallon
• Skip one premium: Use premium paint on walls, standard on ceilings