How Much to Charge for Painting in Denver?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Denver metro area has approximately 286,209 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Costs in Denver run 7% above the Colorado state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $50/hr based on Denver wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,575 - $1,969
$1.18/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Denver Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Denver.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $4 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $224 | $448 | $784 |
| Per hour | $39 | $50 | $73 |
Prices adjusted for Denver cost of living (112% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Denver?
Estimates based on Denver average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Denver vs Other Colorado Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | $50/hr | 112% | very high |
| Colorado Springs(most affordable) | $45/hr | 100% | high |
| Colorado Average | $47/hr | 105% | - |
Pricing Zones in Denver
Denver's most affluent neighborhoods with large lots.
Booming urban and suburban neighborhoods.
Growing areas with affordable housing and rising demand.
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Colorado Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register business with Colorado Secretary of State
- •Local business licenses required in most cities
- •Workers comp required for employees
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.
Denver Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Colorado
High altitude affects equipment performance. Adjust carburetor settings and expect 20% efficiency loss above 5,000 ft.
Mountain communities pay 40-60% more due to access challenges. Factor in drive time and altitude for pricing.
Key Insight: Colorado's outdoor lifestyle and affluent suburbs support premium pricing for professional, reliable service.
Painting Demand in Colorado 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 Denver?
In Denver, CO, you should charge $50-$76/hour for painting. This is 12% above the national average because Denver's cost of living is 112% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $101-$252.
What's the average painting rate in Denver, Colorado?
The average painting rate in Denver is $50/hour or $151 per job. Denver has average demand with a population of 716K. Local pros typically charge $40-$76/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Denver?
Painting companies in Denver charge $40-$76/hour (112% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $40/hour, while complex work commands $76+/hour. The average demand in Denver supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Denver?
Key pricing factors in Denver: (1) Cost of living - 12% above national average at 112%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Denver's 716K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Colorado?
Colorado licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register business with Colorado Secretary of State Local business licenses required in most cities 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 Denver a good market for painting businesses?
Denver shows average demand for painting services. With 716K residents and a 112% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $50-$76/hour. The Colorado market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Denver painting prices compare to Colorado average?
Denver painting prices are typically 12% above the Colorado state average. While state average is around $47/hour, Denver pros charge $50/hour due to the city's 112% cost of living index.
Other Services in Denver
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Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Denver, Colorado 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
- Colorado Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026