How Much to Charge for Painting in Honolulu?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Honolulu metro area has approximately 140,386 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Costs in Honolulu run 6% above the Hawaii state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $86/hr based on Honolulu wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $3,873 - $4,842
$2.91/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Honolulu Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Honolulu.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $3 | $5 | $8 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $4 | $7 | $11 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $384 | $768 | $1,344 |
| Per hour | $67 | $86 | $125 |
Prices adjusted for Honolulu cost of living (192% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Honolulu?
Estimates based on Honolulu average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Honolulu vs Other Hawaii Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | $86/hr | 192% | high |
| East Honolulu(most expensive) | $90/hr | 200% | high |
| Hilo(most affordable) | $79/hr | 175% | medium |
| Hawaii Average | $84/hr | 186% | - |
Market Position: Honolulu
Honolulu sits at the state average for Hawaii - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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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.
Honolulu 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 Honolulu?
In Honolulu, HI, you should charge $86-$130/hour for painting. This is 92% above the national average because Honolulu's cost of living is 192% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $173-$432.
What's the average painting rate in Honolulu, Hawaii?
The average painting rate in Honolulu is $86/hour or $259 per job. Honolulu has high demand with a population of 351K. Local pros typically charge $69-$130/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Honolulu?
Painting companies in Honolulu charge $69-$130/hour (192% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $69/hour, while complex work commands $130+/hour. The high demand in Honolulu supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Honolulu?
Key pricing factors in Honolulu: (1) Cost of living - 92% above national average at 192%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Honolulu's 351K population creates high 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 Honolulu a good market for painting businesses?
Honolulu shows high demand for painting services. With 351K residents and a 192% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $86-$130/hour. The Hawaii market is significantly higher than for service businesses.
How do Honolulu painting prices compare to Hawaii average?
Honolulu painting prices are typically 92% above the Hawaii state average. While state average is around $84/hour, Honolulu pros charge $86/hour due to the city's 192% cost of living index.
Other Services in Honolulu
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Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Honolulu, 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