MEDIUM DEMANDPop. 116K
Off-peak rates available - best time for interior work

How Much to Charge for Painting in Lowell?2026 Local Rates & Calculator

The Lowell metro area has approximately 46,222 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Higher costs of living with moderate demand means less competition - a real opportunity to become the go-to provider. Lowell costs are 25% below the Massachusetts average - price competitively to win volume.

Calculate Your Painting Price

Enter Your Details

Include hallways

sq ft

Wall surface area

$

Suggested: $50/hr based on Lowell wages

Your Pricing

Recommended Price

$1,749

Range: $1,554 - $1,943

$1.17/sq ft - 17.6h estimated

5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer

Cost Breakdown

Labor Cost$965.25
Paint$225.00
Primer$60.00
Supplies$45.00
Total Materials$330.00
Subtotal$1,295.25
Markup (35%)+$453.75

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Lowell Painting Market Intelligence

Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Lowell.

Painting Pricing Breakdown

Pricing ModelLowTypicalHigh
Per sq ft (interior)$2$3$4
Per sq ft (exterior)$2$4$6
Per room (avg 12x12)$220$440$770
Per hour$39$50$72

Prices adjusted for Lowell cost of living (110% of national average).

How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Lowell?

Part-time
15 hrs/week
$3,193/mo
$38,316/yr
Full-time
35 hrs/week
$7,450/mo
$89,400/yr
Recommended
Hustler
50 hrs/week
$10,643/mo
$127,716/yr

Estimates based on Lowell average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.

Lowell vs Other Massachusetts Markets

MarketHourly RateCOLDemand
Lowell$50/hr110%medium
Cambridge(most expensive)$74/hr165%high
Springfield(most affordable)$46/hr102%medium
Massachusetts Average$61/hr135%-

Market Position: Lowell

Lowell is a value market in Massachusetts - costs are below the state average, so focus on volume and efficiency.

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One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.

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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.

Lowell Painting Business Tips

Local insights for running a successful painting business in Massachusetts

operations

Historic homes require careful soft washing. Harsh pressure damages old New England architecture.

regulatory

Home Improvement Contractor license required. Register with MA Office of Consumer Affairs.

growth

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.

Jan
10%
Feb
15%
Mar
35%
Apr
60%
May
85%
Jun
100%
Jul
100%
Aug
90%
Sep
70%
Oct
45%
Nov
25%
Dec
10%
Peak: Jun-Aug
Off-season: Nov-Feb

Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I charge for painting in Lowell?

In Lowell, MA, you should charge $50-$74/hour for painting. This is 10% above the national average because Lowell's cost of living is 110% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $99-$248.

What's the average painting rate in Lowell, Massachusetts?

The average painting rate in Lowell is $50/hour or $149 per job. Lowell has average demand with a population of 116K. Local pros typically charge $40-$74/hour depending on complexity.

How much do painting companies charge per hour in Lowell?

Painting companies in Lowell charge $40-$74/hour (110% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $40/hour, while complex work commands $74+/hour. The average demand in Lowell supports these rates.

What factors affect painting prices in Lowell?

Key pricing factors in Lowell: (1) Cost of living - 10% above national average at 110%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Lowell's 116K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.

Do I need a license for painting in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts licensing requirements: HIC registration required for pressure washing Window cleaning and lawn care typically exempt Insurance required for HIC 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 Lowell a good market for painting businesses?

Lowell shows average demand for painting services. With 116K residents and a 110% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $50-$74/hour. The Massachusetts market is slightly higher than for service businesses.

How do Lowell painting prices compare to Massachusetts average?

Lowell painting prices are typically 10% above the Massachusetts state average. While state average is around $61/hour, Lowell pros charge $50/hour due to the city's 110% cost of living index.

Trusted Data Sources

Based on

10,000+ quotes

Used by

5,000+ pros

Updated

January 2026

Verified by

BLS Data

Painting pricing data for Lowell, 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