How Much to Charge for Painting in Jersey City?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Jersey City metro area has approximately 116,980 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. This is a premium market where clients expect quality and are willing to pay top dollar for it. Costs in Jersey City run 13% above the New Jersey state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $58/hr based on Jersey City wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,959 - $2,449
$1.47/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Jersey City Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Jersey City.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $3 | $4 | $7 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $256 | $512 | $896 |
| Per hour | $45 | $58 | $83 |
Prices adjusted for Jersey City cost of living (128% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Jersey City?
Estimates based on Jersey City average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Jersey City vs Other New Jersey Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jersey City | $58/hr | 128% | high |
| Paterson(most affordable) | $47/hr | 105% | medium |
| New Jersey Average | $52/hr | 115% | - |
Market Position: Jersey City
Jersey City is a premium market in New Jersey - costs here are above the state average, supporting higher service rates.
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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.
Jersey City 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 Jersey City?
In Jersey City, NJ, you should charge $58-$86/hour for painting. This is 28% above the national average because Jersey City's cost of living is 128% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $115-$288.
What's the average painting rate in Jersey City, New Jersey?
The average painting rate in Jersey City is $58/hour or $173 per job. Jersey City has high demand with a population of 292K. Local pros typically charge $46-$86/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Jersey City?
Painting companies in Jersey City charge $46-$86/hour (128% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $46/hour, while complex work commands $86+/hour. The high demand in Jersey City supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Jersey City?
Key pricing factors in Jersey City: (1) Cost of living - 28% above national average at 128%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Jersey City's 292K population creates high 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 Jersey City a good market for painting businesses?
Jersey City shows high demand for painting services. With 292K residents and a 128% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $58-$86/hour. The New Jersey market is significantly higher than for service businesses.
How do Jersey City painting prices compare to New Jersey average?
Jersey City painting prices are typically 28% above the New Jersey state average. While state average is around $52/hour, Jersey City pros charge $58/hour due to the city's 128% cost of living index.
Other Services in Jersey City
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 Jersey City, 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