How Much to Charge for Painting in Des Moines?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Des Moines metro area has approximately 85,653 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A bustling market where consistent quality and fair pricing build loyal clientele fast.
Calculate Your Painting Price
Enter Your Details
Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $41/hr based on Des Moines wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,190 - $1,488
$0.89/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Des Moines Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Des Moines.
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) | $184 | $368 | $644 |
| Per hour | $32 | $41 | $60 |
Prices adjusted for Des Moines cost of living (92% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Des Moines?
Estimates based on Des Moines average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Des Moines vs Other Iowa Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | $41/hr | 92% | high |
| Iowa City(most expensive) | $43/hr | 95% | medium |
| Sioux City(most affordable) | $37/hr | 82% | medium |
| Iowa Average | $40/hr | 89% | - |
Market Position: Des Moines
Des Moines sits at the state average for Iowa - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
Your Business Misses 5-10 Calls a Day.
One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.
Every time you can't answer, that caller Googles the next business - and they pick up. 62% won't leave a voicemail. They won't call back. That's $200-500 walking out the door. Stop losing money - let AI answer while you work.
Instant Call Answering
Never miss a lead, even at 3 AM
Smart Scheduling
Books appointments directly to your calendar
SMS Follow-ups
Automatic text confirmations to callers
24/7 Availability
Works while you sleep, holidays included
"Painting estimates require site visits. Voctiv schedules them while I'm painting - efficiency doubled."
- Rick M., House Painter, Missouri
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
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.
Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
In Des Moines, IA, you should charge $41-$62/hour for painting. This is 8% below the national average because Des Moines's cost of living is 92% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $83-$207.
What's the average painting rate in Des Moines, Iowa?
The average painting rate in Des Moines is $41/hour or $124 per job. Des Moines has high demand with a population of 214K. Local pros typically charge $33-$62/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Des Moines?
Painting companies in Des Moines charge $33-$62/hour (92% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $33/hour, while complex work commands $62+/hour. The high demand in Des Moines supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Des Moines?
Key pricing factors in Des Moines: (1) Cost of living - 8% below national average at 92%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Des Moines's 214K 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 Des Moines a good market for painting businesses?
Des Moines shows high demand for painting services. With 214K residents and a 92% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $41-$62/hour. The Iowa market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Des Moines painting prices compare to Iowa average?
Des Moines painting prices are typically 8% below the Iowa state average. While state average is around $40/hour, Des Moines pros charge $41/hour due to the city's 92% cost of living index.
Other Services in Des Moines
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 Des Moines, 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