How Much to Charge for Painting in Cedar Rapids?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Cedar Rapids metro area has approximately 55,084 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Cedar Rapids wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,137 - $1,422
$0.85/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Cedar Rapids Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Cedar Rapids.
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) | $176 | $352 | $616 |
| Per hour | $31 | $40 | $57 |
Prices adjusted for Cedar Rapids cost of living (88% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Cedar Rapids?
Estimates based on Cedar Rapids average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Cedar Rapids vs Other Iowa Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids | $40/hr | 88% | high |
| Iowa City(most expensive) | $43/hr | 95% | medium |
| Sioux City(most affordable) | $37/hr | 82% | medium |
| Iowa Average | $40/hr | 89% | - |
Market Position: Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids sits at the state average for Iowa - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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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.
Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids?
In Cedar Rapids, IA, you should charge $40-$59/hour for painting. This is 12% below the national average because Cedar Rapids's cost of living is 88% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $79-$198.
What's the average painting rate in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?
The average painting rate in Cedar Rapids is $40/hour or $119 per job. Cedar Rapids has high demand with a population of 138K. Local pros typically charge $32-$59/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Cedar Rapids?
Painting companies in Cedar Rapids charge $32-$59/hour (88% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $32/hour, while complex work commands $59+/hour. The high demand in Cedar Rapids supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Cedar Rapids?
Key pricing factors in Cedar Rapids: (1) Cost of living - 12% below national average at 88%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Cedar Rapids's 138K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Iowa?
Iowa licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with Iowa Secretary of State Local business licenses required in cities 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 Cedar Rapids a good market for painting businesses?
Cedar Rapids shows high demand for painting services. With 138K residents and a 88% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $40-$59/hour. The Iowa market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Cedar Rapids painting prices compare to Iowa average?
Cedar Rapids painting prices are typically 12% below the Iowa state average. While state average is around $40/hour, Cedar Rapids pros charge $40/hour due to the city's 88% cost of living index.
Other Services in Cedar Rapids
Other Iowa Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Cedar Rapids, 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