How Much to Charge for Painting in Hilo?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Hilo metro area has approximately 17,674 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. This is a premium market with room to grow. Fewer providers means you can command higher rates. Hilo costs are 11% below the Hawaii average - price competitively to win volume.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $79/hr based on Hilo wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $3,308 - $4,134
$2.48/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Hilo Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Hilo.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $3 | $4 | $7 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $4 | $6 | $10 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $350 | $700 | $1,225 |
| Per hour | $61 | $79 | $114 |
Prices adjusted for Hilo cost of living (175% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Hilo?
Estimates based on Hilo average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Hilo vs Other Hawaii Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilo | $79/hr | 175% | medium |
| East Honolulu(most expensive) | $90/hr | 200% | high |
| Hawaii Average | $84/hr | 186% | - |
Market Position: Hilo
Hilo is a value market in Hawaii - costs are below the state average, so focus on volume and efficiency.
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Hawaii Licensing Requirements
- •C-27b license may be required for landscape work over $1,500
- •GET (General Excise Tax) license required for all businesses
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •Higher costs make insurance even more important
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.
Hilo Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Hawaii
Shipping equipment to Hawaii is expensive. Price accordingly — customers expect island premium of 50-80%.
Focus on one island to start. Inter-island travel for small jobs isn't economical.
Key Insight: Hawaii's isolation means less competition, but higher costs — premium pricing is both necessary and expected.
Painting Demand in Hawaii 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 Hilo?
In Hilo, HI, you should charge $79-$118/hour for painting. This is 75% above the national average because Hilo's cost of living is 175% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $158-$394.
What's the average painting rate in Hilo, Hawaii?
The average painting rate in Hilo is $79/hour or $236 per job. Hilo has average demand with a population of 44K. Local pros typically charge $63-$118/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Hilo?
Painting companies in Hilo charge $63-$118/hour (175% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $63/hour, while complex work commands $118+/hour. The average demand in Hilo supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Hilo?
Key pricing factors in Hilo: (1) Cost of living - 75% above national average at 175%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Hilo's 44K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Hawaii?
Hawaii licensing requirements: C-27b license may be required for landscape work over $1,500 GET (General Excise Tax) license required for all businesses Workers comp required for all 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 Hilo a good market for painting businesses?
Hilo shows average demand for painting services. With 44K residents and a 175% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $79-$118/hour. The Hawaii market is significantly higher than for service businesses.
How do Hilo painting prices compare to Hawaii average?
Hilo painting prices are typically 75% above the Hawaii state average. While state average is around $84/hour, Hilo pros charge $79/hour due to the city's 175% cost of living index.
Other Services in Hilo
Other Hawaii Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Hilo, Hawaii 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
- Hawaii Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026