How Much to Charge for Painting in Elizabeth?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Elizabeth metro area has approximately 54,919 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Higher costs of living with moderate demand means less competition - a real opportunity to become the go-to provider. Elizabeth costs are 7% below the New Jersey average - price competitively to win volume.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $49/hr based on Elizabeth wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,510 - $1,888
$1.13/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Elizabeth Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Elizabeth.
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) | $216 | $432 | $756 |
| Per hour | $38 | $49 | $70 |
Prices adjusted for Elizabeth cost of living (108% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Elizabeth?
Estimates based on Elizabeth average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Elizabeth vs Other New Jersey Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth | $49/hr | 108% | medium |
| Jersey City(most expensive) | $58/hr | 128% | high |
| Paterson(most affordable) | $47/hr | 105% | medium |
| New Jersey Average | $52/hr | 115% | - |
Market Position: Elizabeth
Elizabeth sits at the state average for New Jersey - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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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.
Elizabeth 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 Elizabeth?
In Elizabeth, NJ, you should charge $49-$73/hour for painting. This is 8% above the national average because Elizabeth's cost of living is 108% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $97-$243.
What's the average painting rate in Elizabeth, New Jersey?
The average painting rate in Elizabeth is $49/hour or $146 per job. Elizabeth has average demand with a population of 137K. Local pros typically charge $39-$73/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Elizabeth?
Painting companies in Elizabeth charge $39-$73/hour (108% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $39/hour, while complex work commands $73+/hour. The average demand in Elizabeth supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Elizabeth?
Key pricing factors in Elizabeth: (1) Cost of living - 8% above national average at 108%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Elizabeth's 137K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in New Jersey?
New Jersey licensing requirements: HIC registration required for pressure washing Lawn care and window cleaning typically exempt Township/municipal licenses are very localized 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 Elizabeth a good market for painting businesses?
Elizabeth shows average demand for painting services. With 137K residents and a 108% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $49-$73/hour. The New Jersey market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Elizabeth painting prices compare to New Jersey average?
Elizabeth painting prices are typically 8% above the New Jersey state average. While state average is around $52/hour, Elizabeth pros charge $49/hour due to the city's 108% cost of living index.
Other Services in Elizabeth
Other New Jersey Cities
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Elizabeth, 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