How Much to Charge for Painting in Iowa?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 3.2M residents and a 72.4% homeownership rate, Iowa has approximately 2,309,827 potential painting customers. An emerging market with room to establish yourself. Build relationships and grow with the community. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. Iowa rates run about 8% lower than neighboring Minnesota - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
Select Your City in Iowa
Get precise painting rates for your local market.
Or Use Iowa State Average
Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with Iowa statewide rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Iowa wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,146 - $1,432
$0.86/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Iowa Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Iowa.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $1 | $2 | $4 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $178 | $356 | $623 |
| Per hour | $31 | $40 | $58 |
Prices adjusted for Iowa cost of living (89% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Iowa?
Estimates based on Iowa average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Iowa vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $40/hr | 89% | medium |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Minnesota(neighbor) | $44/hr | 97% | high |
| Wisconsin(neighbor) | $42/hr | 93% | high |
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Iowa Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with Iowa Secretary of State
- •Local business licenses required in 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.
Iowa Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Iowa
Farm property maintenance is a huge market. Outbuilding cleaning, grain bin maintenance, and equipment washing.
University towns (Iowa City, Ames) have consistent rental property turnover. Partner with property managers.
Flood cleanup services along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers provide emergency revenue.
Key Insight: Iowa's agricultural economy creates unique opportunities beyond residential — think farm and commercial.
Painting Demand in Iowa 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 Iowa?
In Iowa, painting rates range from $32-$60/hour, with an average of $40/hour. Iowa's cost of living is 89% of the national average. Major cities like Iowa City command higher rates ($43/hr), while smaller markets like Sioux City average $37/hr.
What's the Iowa average for painting services?
The Iowa statewide average for painting is $40/hour or approximately $120-$200 per job. This reflects Iowa's 89% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Iowa cities have the highest painting rates?
In Iowa, Iowa City has the highest painting rates at around $43/hour due to its 95% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport.
Do I need a license for painting in Iowa?
Iowa licensing: No state contractor license required Register with Iowa Secretary of State Local business licenses required in 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.
Is Iowa a good market for painting businesses?
Iowa offers a competitive market for painting with rates averaging $40/hour. The state's 89% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Iowa 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
- Iowa Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026