How Much to Charge for Painting in Delaware?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 1.0M residents and a 71.4% homeownership rate, Delaware has approximately 706,823 potential painting customers. Lower competition here means new providers can quickly become the neighborhood favorite. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. Delaware rates run about 5% higher than neighboring Pennsylvania - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $45/hr based on Delaware wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,353 - $1,691
$1.01/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Delaware Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Delaware.
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) | $202 | $404 | $707 |
| Per hour | $35 | $45 | $66 |
Prices adjusted for Delaware cost of living (101% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Delaware?
Estimates based on Delaware average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Delaware vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $45/hr | 101% | medium |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Pennsylvania(neighbor) | $43/hr | 96% | high |
| New Jersey(neighbor) | $52/hr | 115% | high |
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Delaware Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Delaware business license required
- •No sales tax (marketing advantage)
- •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.
Delaware Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Delaware
Delaware's small size means you can serve the entire state from one location. Market statewide for maximum reach.
No sales tax in Delaware is a marketing advantage. Customers save on service compared to neighboring states.
Corporate headquarters (many Fortune 500 companies) need reliable commercial maintenance. Target Wilmington business district.
Key Insight: Delaware's compact geography allows efficient routing, and proximity to Philadelphia and Baltimore expands your market.
Painting Demand in Delaware 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 Delaware?
In Delaware, painting rates range from $36-$68/hour, with an average of $45/hour. Delaware's cost of living is 101% of the national average. Major cities like Wilmington command higher rates ($47/hr), while smaller markets like Dover average $44/hr.
What's the Delaware average for painting services?
The Delaware statewide average for painting is $45/hour or approximately $135-$225 per job. This reflects Delaware's 101% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Delaware cities have the highest painting rates?
In Delaware, Wilmington has the highest painting rates at around $47/hour due to its 105% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Wilmington, Dover, Newark.
Do I need a license for painting in Delaware?
Delaware licensing: No state contractor license required Delaware business license required No sales tax (marketing advantage) 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.
Is Delaware a good market for painting businesses?
Delaware offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $45/hour. The state's 101% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Wilmington, Dover, Newark.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Delaware 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
- Delaware Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026