How Much to Charge for Painting in Massachusetts?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 7.0M residents and a 62.5% homeownership rate, Massachusetts has approximately 4,393,698 potential painting customers. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. Massachusetts rates run about 24% higher than neighboring Vermont - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Get precise painting rates for your local market.
Or Use Massachusetts State Average
Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with Massachusetts statewide rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $61/hr based on Massachusetts wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $2,130 - $2,663
$1.60/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Massachusetts Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Massachusetts.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $3 | $5 | $7 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $270 | $540 | $945 |
| Per hour | $47 | $61 | $88 |
Prices adjusted for Massachusetts cost of living (135% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Massachusetts?
Estimates based on Massachusetts average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Massachusetts vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $61/hr | 135% | high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Vermont(neighbor) | $50/hr | 111% | medium |
| New Hampshire(neighbor) | $50/hr | 112% | medium |
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Massachusetts Licensing Requirements
- •HIC registration required for pressure washing
- •Window cleaning and lawn care typically exempt
- •Insurance required for HIC
- •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.
Massachusetts Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Massachusetts
Historic homes require careful soft washing. Harsh pressure damages old New England architecture.
Home Improvement Contractor license required. Register with MA Office of Consumer Affairs.
Boston-area universities have massive grounds maintenance needs. Pursue institutional contracts.
Key Insight: Massachusetts' high cost of living supports premium prices, but regulatory compliance is essential.
Painting Demand in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, painting rates range from $49-$92/hour, with an average of $61/hour. Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average. Major cities like Cambridge command higher rates ($74/hr), while smaller markets like Springfield average $46/hr.
What's the Massachusetts average for painting services?
The Massachusetts statewide average for painting is $61/hour or approximately $183-$305 per job. This reflects Massachusetts's 135% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Massachusetts cities have the highest painting rates?
In Massachusetts, Cambridge has the highest painting rates at around $74/hour due to its 165% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Boston, Worcester, Springfield.
Do I need a license for painting in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts licensing: HIC registration required for pressure washing Window cleaning and lawn care typically exempt Insurance required for HIC 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.
Is Massachusetts a good market for painting businesses?
Massachusetts offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $61/hour. The state's 135% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Boston, Worcester, Springfield.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Massachusetts 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
- Massachusetts Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026