How Much to Charge for Painting in Lincoln?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Lincoln metro area has approximately 116,433 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $41/hr based on Lincoln wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,173 - $1,466
$0.88/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Lincoln Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Lincoln.
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) | $180 | $360 | $630 |
| Per hour | $32 | $41 | $59 |
Prices adjusted for Lincoln cost of living (90% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Lincoln?
Estimates based on Lincoln average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Lincoln vs Other Nebraska Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln | $41/hr | 90% | high |
| Omaha(most expensive) | $42/hr | 93% | high |
| Grand Island(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Nebraska Average | $41/hr | 91% | - |
Market Position: Lincoln
Lincoln 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.
Lincoln 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 Lincoln?
In Lincoln, NE, you should charge $41-$61/hour for painting. This is 10% below the national average because Lincoln's cost of living is 90% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $81-$203.
What's the average painting rate in Lincoln, Nebraska?
The average painting rate in Lincoln is $41/hour or $122 per job. Lincoln has high demand with a population of 291K. Local pros typically charge $32-$61/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Lincoln?
Painting companies in Lincoln charge $32-$61/hour (90% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $32/hour, while complex work commands $61+/hour. The high demand in Lincoln supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Lincoln?
Key pricing factors in Lincoln: (1) Cost of living - 10% below national average at 90%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Lincoln's 291K population creates high 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 Lincoln a good market for painting businesses?
Lincoln shows high demand for painting services. With 291K residents and a 90% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $41-$61/hour. The Nebraska market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Lincoln painting prices compare to Nebraska average?
Lincoln painting prices are typically 10% below the Nebraska state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Lincoln pros charge $41/hour due to the city's 90% cost of living index.
Other Services in Lincoln
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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 Lincoln, 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