How Much to Charge for Painting in California?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 39.5M residents and a 55.5% homeownership rate, California has approximately 21,943,714 potential painting customers. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. California rates run about 32% higher than neighboring Oregon - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $64/hr based on California wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $2,310 - $2,887
$1.73/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
California Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in California.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $3 | $5 | $8 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $284 | $568 | $994 |
| Per hour | $50 | $64 | $92 |
Prices adjusted for California cost of living (142% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in California?
Estimates based on California average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
California vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $64/hr | 142% | very high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Oregon(neighbor) | $50/hr | 110% | high |
| Nevada(neighbor) | $47/hr | 104% | high |
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California Licensing Requirements
- •C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500
- •Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27
- •$25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •City business licenses required everywhere
This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Painting Demand in California by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for painting in California?
In California, painting rates range from $51-$96/hour, with an average of $64/hour. California's cost of living is 142% of the national average. Major cities like San Francisco command higher rates ($86/hr), while smaller markets like Fresno average $49/hr.
What's the California average for painting services?
The California statewide average for painting is $64/hour or approximately $192-$320 per job. This reflects California's 142% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which California cities have the highest painting rates?
In California, San Francisco has the highest painting rates at around $86/hour due to its 190% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Do I need a license for painting in California?
California licensing: C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500 Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27 $25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license Workers comp required for all employees City business licenses required everywhere This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Is California a good market for painting businesses?
California offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $64/hour. The state's 142% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Other Calculators for California
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for California is sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau cost of living data, and verified quotes from local service professionals.
Data Sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- California Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026