How Much to Charge for Painting in Tampa?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Tampa metro area has approximately 153,984 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. This is a premium market where clients expect quality and are willing to pay top dollar for it.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Tampa wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,435 - $1,794
$1.08/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Tampa Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Tampa.
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) | $210 | $420 | $735 |
| Per hour | $37 | $47 | $68 |
Prices adjusted for Tampa cost of living (105% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Tampa?
Estimates based on Tampa average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Tampa vs Other Florida Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa | $47/hr | 105% | very high |
| Miami(most expensive) | $55/hr | 122% | very high |
| Jacksonville(most affordable) | $44/hr | 98% | very high |
| Florida Average | $45/hr | 101% | - |
Market Position: Tampa
Tampa sits at the state average for Florida - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Florida Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license for maintenance services
- •County occupational license required in most areas
- •Workers comp required at 1 employee for landscaping (construction)
- •Workers comp required at 4 employees for cleaning services
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.
Tampa Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Florida
Year-round service is expected. Don't market as "seasonal" — Floridians expect consistent 52-week availability.
Hurricane prep and post-storm cleanup are huge revenue opportunities. Establish emergency service protocols.
Mold and mildew grow year-round in Florida humidity. Soft washing with mold treatment is essential.
Snowbird communities (Naples, Sarasota) need service when owners are away. Offer "while you're gone" packages.
Key Insight: Florida's explosive growth means constant new construction and high turnover — endless new customer acquisition.
Painting Demand in Florida by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Year-round demand means steady income. Focus on quality and retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for painting in Tampa?
In Tampa, FL, you should charge $47-$71/hour for painting. This is 5% above the national average because Tampa's cost of living is 105% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $95-$236.
What's the average painting rate in Tampa, Florida?
The average painting rate in Tampa is $47/hour or $142 per job. Tampa has average demand with a population of 385K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Tampa?
Painting companies in Tampa charge $38-$71/hour (105% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $38/hour, while complex work commands $71+/hour. The average demand in Tampa supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Tampa?
Key pricing factors in Tampa: (1) Cost of living - 5% above national average at 105%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Tampa's 385K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Florida?
Florida licensing requirements: No state contractor license for maintenance services County occupational license required in most areas Workers comp required at 1 employee for landscaping (construction) 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 Tampa a good market for painting businesses?
Tampa shows average demand for painting services. With 385K residents and a 105% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The Florida market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Tampa painting prices compare to Florida average?
Tampa painting prices are typically 5% above the Florida state average. While state average is around $45/hour, Tampa pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 105% cost of living index.
Other Services in Tampa
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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 Tampa, Florida 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
- Florida Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026