How Much to Charge for Painting in Lexington?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Lexington metro area has approximately 129,028 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A bustling market where consistent quality and fair pricing build loyal clientele fast.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $41/hr based on Lexington 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
Lexington Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Lexington.
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 Lexington cost of living (92% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Lexington?
Estimates based on Lexington average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Lexington vs Other Kentucky Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexington | $41/hr | 92% | high |
| Owensboro(most affordable) | $37/hr | 82% | medium |
| Kentucky Average | $39/hr | 87% | - |
Market Position: Lexington
Lexington sits at the state average for Kentucky - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Kentucky Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Local occupational licenses required
- •Workers comp required for employees
- •Some cities have specific service tax requirements
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.
Lexington Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Kentucky
Horse farm properties in Lexington area pay premium for immaculate grounds. Target equestrian estates.
Limestone buildings in older Kentucky cities require soft washing. Harsh pressure damages historic materials.
Key Insight: Kentucky's mix of urban, suburban, and rural markets allows for diverse service offerings and pricing tiers.
Painting Demand in Kentucky 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 Lexington?
In Lexington, KY, you should charge $41-$62/hour for painting. This is 8% below the national average because Lexington'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 Lexington, Kentucky?
The average painting rate in Lexington is $41/hour or $124 per job. Lexington has high demand with a population of 323K. Local pros typically charge $33-$62/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Lexington?
Painting companies in Lexington 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 Lexington supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Lexington?
Key pricing factors in Lexington: (1) Cost of living - 8% below national average at 92%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Lexington's 323K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Kentucky?
Kentucky licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Local occupational licenses required 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 Lexington a good market for painting businesses?
Lexington shows high demand for painting services. With 323K residents and a 92% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $41-$62/hour. The Kentucky market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Lexington painting prices compare to Kentucky average?
Lexington painting prices are typically 8% below the Kentucky state average. While state average is around $39/hour, Lexington pros charge $41/hour due to the city's 92% cost of living index.
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Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Lexington, Kentucky 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
- Kentucky Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026