How Much Does a Painter Cost in San Francisco, CA?
Get a breakdown of typical painter costs in San Francisco, California including regionally-adjusted hourly rates, common job prices, and tips to save money on your next project.
San Francisco Avg Hourly Rate
$49 – $112
Per hour, adjusted for CA region
National Avg Hourly Rate
$35 – $80
Before regional adjustment
Regional Multiplier
1.40x
California — High
Common Painter Jobs & Prices in San Francisco
Prices below are adjusted for the San Francisco, CA area using a 1.40x regional multiplier.
| Job Type | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Room (12x12) | $420 | $1,120 | $770 |
| Full Interior (3-bed home) | $2,100 | $7,000 | $4,550 |
| Exterior House Painting | $4,200 | $11,200 | $7,700 |
| Cabinet Painting (kitchen) | $2,100 | $5,600 | $3,850 |
| Deck Staining | $700 | $2,100 | $1,400 |
| Drywall Repair & Paint | $280 | $840 | $560 |
San Francisco Regional Cost Context
San Francisco, California
HighSan Francisco is located in California, which is classified as a “High” cost area for home services.Painter rates in San Francisco are approximately 40% above the national average. With a population of 873,965, San Francisco has a competitive market for painter services.
What Affects Painter Costs in San Francisco?
- Surface area and number of coats needed
- Surface condition and prep work required
- Paint quality and type (latex, oil, specialty)
- Height and accessibility of surfaces
How to Save on Painter Services in San Francisco
- Do your own prep work (moving furniture, taping, patching holes)
- Schedule painting during fall or winter for lower rates
- Buy your own paint during sales to save on materials
- Bundle interior and exterior painting for a package discount
Frequently Asked Questions About Painter Costs in San Francisco
How much does a painter cost in San Francisco?
In San Francisco, California, painter hourly rates typically range from $49 to $112 per hour. CA is considered a "High" cost area, so prices may be higher the national average.
Why are painter costs higher in San Francisco?
San Francisco is located in California, which has a "High" cost of living compared to the national average. Labor costs, local licensing requirements, and market competition in the San Francisco metro area all contribute to the regional pricing differences.
How can I save money on painter services in San Francisco?
Do your own prep work (moving furniture, taping, patching holes) Schedule painting during fall or winter for lower rates Buy your own paint during sales to save on materials Bundle interior and exterior painting for a package discount
Should I choose the cheapest painter in San Francisco?
Not necessarily. The cheapest quote may cut corners, use lower-quality materials, or lack proper licensing and insurance. Instead, compare 3 or more quotes from verified professionals in San Francisco, check reviews and credentials, and look for the best value — a fair price from a trusted provider with a solid track record.
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View National Painter Cost Guide