How Much to Charge for Painting in Baltimore?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Baltimore metro area has approximately 234,283 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Baltimore wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,435 - $1,794
$1.08/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Baltimore Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Baltimore.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $4 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $210 | $420 | $735 |
| Per hour | $37 | $47 | $68 |
Prices adjusted for Baltimore cost of living (105% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Baltimore?
Estimates based on Baltimore average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Baltimore vs Other Maryland Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | $47/hr | 105% | high |
| Silver Spring(most expensive) | $56/hr | 125% | high |
| Maryland Average | $49/hr | 109% | - |
Pricing Zones in Baltimore
Baltimore's most desirable residential neighborhoods.
Revitalized urban areas with growing demand.
Developing areas with community-based service needs.
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Maryland Licensing Requirements
- •MHIC registration required for pressure washing over $500
- •Lawn maintenance and window cleaning typically exempt
- •Insurance required for MHIC registration
- •Workers comp required for all 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.
Baltimore Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Maryland
DC commuter suburbs (Bethesda, Silver Spring) have affluent dual-income households. Premium pricing works.
Home Improvement Commission license required for contracts over $500. Register with MHIC.
Federal government facilities and contractors offer stable commercial accounts. Get SAM registered.
Key Insight: Maryland's federal economy and wealthy suburbs create premium demand — professional presentation matters.
Painting Demand in Maryland 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 Baltimore?
In Baltimore, MD, you should charge $47-$71/hour for painting. This is 5% above the national average because Baltimore's cost of living is 105% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $95-$236.
What's the average painting rate in Baltimore, Maryland?
The average painting rate in Baltimore is $47/hour or $142 per job. Baltimore has high demand with a population of 586K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Baltimore?
Painting companies in Baltimore charge $38-$71/hour (105% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $38/hour, while complex work commands $71+/hour. The high demand in Baltimore supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Baltimore?
Key pricing factors in Baltimore: (1) Cost of living - 5% above national average at 105%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Baltimore's 586K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Maryland?
Maryland licensing requirements: MHIC registration required for pressure washing over $500 Lawn maintenance and window cleaning typically exempt Insurance required for MHIC registration 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 Baltimore a good market for painting businesses?
Baltimore shows high demand for painting services. With 586K residents and a 105% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The Maryland market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Baltimore painting prices compare to Maryland average?
Baltimore painting prices are typically 5% above the Maryland state average. While state average is around $49/hour, Baltimore pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 105% 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 Baltimore, Maryland 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
- Maryland Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026