How Much to Charge for Painting in Montana?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 1.1M residents and a 69% homeownership rate, Montana has approximately 748,115 potential painting customers. An emerging market with room to establish yourself. Build relationships and grow with the community. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. Montana rates run about 8% higher than neighboring North Dakota - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Montana wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,425 - $1,782
$1.07/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Montana Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Montana.
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) | $208 | $416 | $728 |
| Per hour | $36 | $47 | $68 |
Prices adjusted for Montana cost of living (104% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Montana?
Estimates based on Montana average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Montana vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $47/hr | 104% | medium |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| North Dakota(neighbor) | $43/hr | 96% | low |
| South Dakota(neighbor) | $41/hr | 92% | low |
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Montana Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with Montana Secretary of State
- •Workers comp required for employees
- •Large service territories may require vehicle considerations
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.
Montana Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Montana
Long drive times between properties are normal. Price by area, not just service.
Wealthy ranch and vacation properties in Big Sky and Whitefish pay premium rates.
Key Insight: Montana's vast distances and affluent resort areas support premium pricing for reliable service.
Painting Demand in Montana 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 Montana?
In Montana, painting rates range from $38-$71/hour, with an average of $47/hour. Montana's cost of living is 104% of the national average. Major cities like Bozeman command higher rates ($52/hr), while smaller markets like Great Falls average $43/hr.
What's the Montana average for painting services?
The Montana statewide average for painting is $47/hour or approximately $141-$235 per job. This reflects Montana's 104% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Montana cities have the highest painting rates?
In Montana, Bozeman has the highest painting rates at around $52/hour due to its 115% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Billings, Missoula, Great Falls.
Do I need a license for painting in Montana?
Montana licensing: No state contractor license required Register with Montana Secretary of State Workers comp required for employees Large service territories may require vehicle considerations 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 Montana a good market for painting businesses?
Montana offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $47/hour. The state's 104% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Billings, Missoula, Great Falls.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Montana 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
- Montana Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026