How Much to Charge for Painting in New Orleans?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The New Orleans metro area has approximately 153,599 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention. Costs in New Orleans run 7% above the Louisiana state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $44/hr based on New Orleans wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,304 - $1,630
$0.98/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
New Orleans Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in New Orleans.
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) | $196 | $392 | $686 |
| Per hour | $34 | $44 | $64 |
Prices adjusted for New Orleans cost of living (98% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in New Orleans?
Estimates based on New Orleans average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
New Orleans vs Other Louisiana Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans | $44/hr | 98% | high |
| Lake Charles(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Louisiana Average | $41/hr | 91% | - |
Market Position: New Orleans
New Orleans 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.
New Orleans 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 New Orleans?
In New Orleans, LA, you should charge $44-$66/hour for painting. This is 2% below the national average because New Orleans's cost of living is 98% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $88-$221.
What's the average painting rate in New Orleans, Louisiana?
The average painting rate in New Orleans is $44/hour or $132 per job. New Orleans has high demand with a population of 384K. Local pros typically charge $35-$66/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in New Orleans?
Painting companies in New Orleans charge $35-$66/hour (98% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $35/hour, while complex work commands $66+/hour. The high demand in New Orleans supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in New Orleans?
Key pricing factors in New Orleans: (1) Cost of living - 2% below national average at 98%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - New Orleans's 384K population creates high 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 New Orleans a good market for painting businesses?
New Orleans shows high demand for painting services. With 384K residents and a 98% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $44-$66/hour. The Louisiana market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do New Orleans painting prices compare to Louisiana average?
New Orleans painting prices are typically 2% below the Louisiana state average. While state average is around $41/hour, New Orleans pros charge $44/hour due to the city's 98% cost of living index.
Other Services in New Orleans
Other Louisiana Cities
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for New Orleans, 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