How Much to Charge for Painting in Columbia?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Columbia metro area has approximately 50,502 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Lower competition here means new providers can quickly become the neighborhood favorite.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Columbia wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,137 - $1,422
$0.85/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Columbia Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Columbia.
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) | $176 | $352 | $616 |
| Per hour | $31 | $40 | $57 |
Prices adjusted for Columbia cost of living (88% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Columbia?
Estimates based on Columbia average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Columbia vs Other Missouri Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | $40/hr | 88% | medium |
| Kansas City(most expensive) | $41/hr | 92% | very high |
| Springfield(most affordable) | $37/hr | 82% | high |
| Missouri Average | $40/hr | 88% | - |
Market Position: Columbia
Columbia sits at the state average for Missouri - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Missouri Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •KC metro spans two states - may need KS registration too
- •Workers comp rules vary by industry
- •Local licenses required in cities
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.
Columbia Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Missouri
Kansas City and St. Louis are distinct markets with different competitors. Choose your region.
Spring flooding along rivers creates pressure washing demand for mud and debris removal.
Lake of the Ozarks vacation properties need seasonal maintenance packages.
Key Insight: Missouri's central location and moderate costs make it ideal for building efficient service routes.
Painting Demand in Missouri 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 Columbia?
In Columbia, MO, you should charge $40-$59/hour for painting. This is 12% below the national average because Columbia's cost of living is 88% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $79-$198.
What's the average painting rate in Columbia, Missouri?
The average painting rate in Columbia is $40/hour or $119 per job. Columbia has average demand with a population of 126K. Local pros typically charge $32-$59/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Columbia?
Painting companies in Columbia charge $32-$59/hour (88% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $32/hour, while complex work commands $59+/hour. The average demand in Columbia supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Columbia?
Key pricing factors in Columbia: (1) Cost of living - 12% below national average at 88%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Columbia's 126K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Missouri?
Missouri licensing requirements: No state contractor license required KC metro spans two states - may need KS registration too Workers comp rules vary by industry 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 Columbia a good market for painting businesses?
Columbia shows average demand for painting services. With 126K residents and a 88% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $40-$59/hour. The Missouri market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Columbia painting prices compare to Missouri average?
Columbia painting prices are typically 12% below the Missouri state average. While state average is around $40/hour, Columbia pros charge $40/hour due to the city's 88% cost of living index.
Other Services in Columbia
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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 Columbia, Missouri 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
- Missouri Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026