How Much to Charge for Painting in Fort Collins?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Fort Collins metro area has approximately 67,924 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros.
Calculate Your Painting Price
Enter Your Details
Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $49/hr based on Fort Collins wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,510 - $1,888
$1.13/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Fort Collins Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Fort Collins.
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) | $216 | $432 | $756 |
| Per hour | $38 | $49 | $70 |
Prices adjusted for Fort Collins cost of living (108% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Fort Collins?
Estimates based on Fort Collins average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Fort Collins vs Other Colorado Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Collins | $49/hr | 108% | high |
| Denver(most expensive) | $50/hr | 112% | very high |
| Colorado Springs(most affordable) | $45/hr | 100% | high |
| Colorado Average | $47/hr | 105% | - |
Market Position: Fort Collins
Fort Collins sits at the state average for Colorado - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
Your Business Misses 5-10 Calls a Day.
One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.
Every time you can't answer, that caller Googles the next business - and they pick up. 62% won't leave a voicemail. They won't call back. That's $200-500 walking out the door. Stop losing money - let AI answer while you work.
Instant Call Answering
Never miss a lead, even at 3 AM
Smart Scheduling
Books appointments directly to your calendar
SMS Follow-ups
Automatic text confirmations to callers
24/7 Availability
Works while you sleep, holidays included
"I answer calls now when I can, but Voctiv catches everything I miss. No more lost leads."
- William P., Small Business Owner, Utah
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
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.
Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins?
In Fort Collins, CO, you should charge $49-$73/hour for painting. This is 8% above the national average because Fort Collins's cost of living is 108% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $97-$243.
What's the average painting rate in Fort Collins, Colorado?
The average painting rate in Fort Collins is $49/hour or $146 per job. Fort Collins has high demand with a population of 170K. Local pros typically charge $39-$73/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Fort Collins?
Painting companies in Fort Collins charge $39-$73/hour (108% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $39/hour, while complex work commands $73+/hour. The high demand in Fort Collins supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Fort Collins?
Key pricing factors in Fort Collins: (1) Cost of living - 8% above national average at 108%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Fort Collins's 170K population creates high 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 Fort Collins a good market for painting businesses?
Fort Collins shows high demand for painting services. With 170K residents and a 108% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $49-$73/hour. The Colorado market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Fort Collins painting prices compare to Colorado average?
Fort Collins painting prices are typically 8% above the Colorado state average. While state average is around $47/hour, Fort Collins pros charge $49/hour due to the city's 108% cost of living index.
Other Services in Fort Collins
Other Colorado Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Fort Collins, 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