How Much to Charge for Painting in New Jersey?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 9.3M residents and a 64.7% homeownership rate, New Jersey has approximately 6,009,979 potential painting customers. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. New Jersey rates run about 8% lower than neighboring New York - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Get precise painting rates for your local market.
Or Use New Jersey State Average
Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with New Jersey statewide rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $52/hr based on New Jersey wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,655 - $2,069
$1.24/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
New Jersey Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in New Jersey.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $230 | $460 | $805 |
| Per hour | $40 | $52 | $75 |
Prices adjusted for New Jersey cost of living (115% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in New Jersey?
Estimates based on New Jersey average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
New Jersey vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $52/hr | 115% | high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| New York(neighbor) | $55/hr | 123% | high |
| Pennsylvania(neighbor) | $43/hr | 96% | high |
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New Jersey Licensing Requirements
- •HIC registration required for pressure washing
- •Lawn care and window cleaning typically exempt
- •Township/municipal licenses are very localized
- •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.
New Jersey Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in New Jersey
Dense population means efficient routing is possible. Serve neighborhoods, not scattered properties.
Home Improvement Contractor registration required. Register with NJ DCA.
NYC commuters in Bergen and Essex counties pay premium for convenience and quality.
Key Insight: New Jersey's density allows efficient operations, and proximity to NYC supports premium pricing.
Painting Demand in New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
In New Jersey, painting rates range from $42-$78/hour, with an average of $52/hour. New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average. Major cities like Jersey City command higher rates ($58/hr), while smaller markets like Paterson average $47/hr.
What's the New Jersey average for painting services?
The New Jersey statewide average for painting is $52/hour or approximately $156-$260 per job. This reflects New Jersey's 115% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which New Jersey cities have the highest painting rates?
In New Jersey, Jersey City has the highest painting rates at around $58/hour due to its 128% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson.
Do I need a license for painting in New Jersey?
New Jersey licensing: HIC registration required for pressure washing Lawn care and window cleaning typically exempt Township/municipal licenses are very localized 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.
Is New Jersey a good market for painting businesses?
New Jersey offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $52/hour. The state's 115% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson.
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for New Jersey 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
- New Jersey Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026