How Much to Charge for Painting in Lake Charles?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Lake Charles metro area has approximately 33,468 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A growing market - get in early, build your reputation, and watch your client base expand. Lake Charles costs are 6% below the Louisiana average - price competitively to win volume.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $38/hr based on Lake Charles wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,076 - $1,345
$0.81/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Lake Charles Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Lake Charles.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $1 | $2 | $3 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $170 | $340 | $595 |
| Per hour | $30 | $38 | $55 |
Prices adjusted for Lake Charles cost of living (85% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Lake Charles?
Estimates based on Lake Charles average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Lake Charles vs Other Louisiana Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Charles | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| New Orleans(most expensive) | $44/hr | 98% | high |
| Louisiana Average | $41/hr | 91% | - |
Market Position: Lake Charles
Lake Charles sits at the state average for Louisiana - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Louisiana Licensing Requirements
- •No state license for maintenance services
- •Parish and city business licenses required
- •Louisiana has parish system (counties)
- •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.
Lake Charles Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Louisiana
Mold and mildew grow year-round in Louisiana humidity. Specialize in mold treatment and prevention.
Hurricane season (June-November) creates both prep and cleanup demand. Offer both services.
Mardi Gras cleanup (February) is a commercial goldmine. Contact French Quarter businesses well in advance.
Flood-prone areas need post-flood remediation services. Consider adding restoration to your offerings.
Key Insight: Louisiana's challenging climate creates constant maintenance demand — embrace the humidity as job security.
Painting Demand in Louisiana by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Offer 10-15% off-season discounts to maintain a steady client base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for painting in Lake Charles?
In Lake Charles, LA, you should charge $38-$57/hour for painting. This is 15% below the national average because Lake Charles's cost of living is 85% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $77-$191.
What's the average painting rate in Lake Charles, Louisiana?
The average painting rate in Lake Charles is $38/hour or $115 per job. Lake Charles has average demand with a population of 84K. Local pros typically charge $31-$57/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Lake Charles?
Painting companies in Lake Charles charge $31-$57/hour (85% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $31/hour, while complex work commands $57+/hour. The average demand in Lake Charles supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Lake Charles?
Key pricing factors in Lake Charles: (1) Cost of living - 15% below national average at 85%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Lake Charles's 84K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Louisiana?
Louisiana licensing requirements: No state license for maintenance services Parish and city business licenses required Louisiana has parish system (counties) 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 Lake Charles a good market for painting businesses?
Lake Charles shows average demand for painting services. With 84K residents and a 85% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $38-$57/hour. The Louisiana market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Lake Charles painting prices compare to Louisiana average?
Lake Charles painting prices are typically 15% below the Louisiana state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Lake Charles pros charge $38/hour due to the city's 85% cost of living index.
Other Services in Lake Charles
Other Louisiana Cities
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Lake Charles, Louisiana 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
- Louisiana Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026