How Much Does a Painter Cost in Washington, DC?
Get a breakdown of typical painter costs in Washington, District of Columbia including regionally-adjusted hourly rates, common job prices, and tips to save money on your next project.
Washington Avg Hourly Rate
$46 – $104
Per hour, adjusted for DC region
National Avg Hourly Rate
$35 – $80
Before regional adjustment
Regional Multiplier
1.30x
District of Columbia — High
Common Painter Jobs & Prices in Washington
Prices below are adjusted for the Washington, DC area using a 1.30x regional multiplier.
| Job Type | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Room (12x12) | $390 | $1,040 | $715 |
| Full Interior (3-bed home) | $1,950 | $6,500 | $4,225 |
| Exterior House Painting | $3,900 | $10,400 | $7,150 |
| Cabinet Painting (kitchen) | $1,950 | $5,200 | $3,575 |
| Deck Staining | $650 | $1,950 | $1,300 |
| Drywall Repair & Paint | $260 | $780 | $520 |
Washington Regional Cost Context
Washington, District of Columbia
HighWashington is located in District of Columbia, which is classified as a “High” cost area for home services.Painter rates in Washington are approximately 30% above the national average. With a population of 689,545, Washington has a competitive market for painter services.
What Affects Painter Costs in Washington?
- 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 Washington
- 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 Washington
How much does a painter cost in Washington?
In Washington, District of Columbia, painter hourly rates typically range from $46 to $104 per hour. DC is considered a "High" cost area, so prices may be higher the national average.
Why are painter costs higher in Washington?
Washington is located in District of Columbia, which has a "High" cost of living compared to the national average. Labor costs, local licensing requirements, and market competition in the Washington metro area all contribute to the regional pricing differences.
How can I save money on painter services in Washington?
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 Washington?
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 Washington, check reviews and credentials, and look for the best value — a fair price from a trusted provider with a solid track record.
Find Top-Rated Painters in Washington, DC
Compare prices from verified painter professionals in Washington. Get free, no-obligation quotes today.
View Painters in WashingtonSee the Full National Painter Cost Guide
View national averages, regional comparisons across all states, and use our interactive cost calculator.
View National Painter Cost Guide