How Much to Charge for Painting in Kearney?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Kearney metro area has approximately 13,534 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A growing market - get in early, build your reputation, and watch your client base expand.
Calculate Your Painting Price
Enter Your Details
Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Kearney 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
Kearney Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Kearney.
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 Kearney cost of living (88% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Kearney?
Estimates based on Kearney average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Kearney vs Other Nebraska Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kearney | $40/hr | 88% | medium |
| Omaha(most expensive) | $42/hr | 93% | high |
| Grand Island(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Nebraska Average | $41/hr | 91% | - |
Market Position: Kearney
Kearney sits at the state average for Nebraska - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Nebraska Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with Nebraska Secretary of State
- •Workers comp required for employees
- •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.
Kearney Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Nebraska
Omaha metro has different dynamics than rural Nebraska. Choose your market focus.
Severe weather (hail, tornadoes) creates storm cleanup opportunities spring through summer.
Agricultural equipment cleaning is a niche market. Farm operations pay well for professional service.
Key Insight: Nebraska's agricultural economy creates unique commercial opportunities beyond typical residential.
Painting Demand in Nebraska 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 Kearney?
In Kearney, NE, you should charge $40-$59/hour for painting. This is 12% below the national average because Kearney'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 Kearney, Nebraska?
The average painting rate in Kearney is $40/hour or $119 per job. Kearney has average demand with a population of 34K. Local pros typically charge $32-$59/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Kearney?
Painting companies in Kearney 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 Kearney supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Kearney?
Key pricing factors in Kearney: (1) Cost of living - 12% below national average at 88%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Kearney's 34K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Nebraska?
Nebraska licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with Nebraska Secretary of State Workers comp required for 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 Kearney a good market for painting businesses?
Kearney shows average demand for painting services. With 34K residents and a 88% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $40-$59/hour. The Nebraska market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Kearney painting prices compare to Nebraska average?
Kearney painting prices are typically 12% below the Nebraska state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Kearney pros charge $40/hour due to the city's 88% cost of living index.
Other Services in Kearney
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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 Kearney, Nebraska 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
- Nebraska Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026