How Much to Charge for Painting in New York?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 20.2M residents and a 54.1% homeownership rate, New York has approximately 10,928,876 potential painting customers. This is a premium market where clients expect quality and are willing to pay top dollar for it. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. New York rates run about 12% higher than neighboring Vermont - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Or Use New York State Average
Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with New York statewide rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $55/hr based on New York wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,821 - $2,276
$1.37/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
New York Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in New York.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $4 | $7 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $246 | $492 | $861 |
| Per hour | $43 | $55 | $80 |
Prices adjusted for New York cost of living (123% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in New York?
Estimates based on New York average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
New York vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $55/hr | 123% | high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Vermont(neighbor) | $50/hr | 111% | medium |
| Massachusetts(neighbor) | $61/hr | 135% | high |
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New York Licensing Requirements
- •NYC has extensive licensing for high-rise window cleaning
- •Upstate is much simpler
- •Workers comp strictly enforced
- •NYC requires Consumer Affairs license for many services
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 York Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in New York
Upstate and NYC metro are completely different markets. Choose one to start.
Hamptons summer residents pay ultra-premium. Target seasonal property management.
Key Insight: New York's wealth concentration in metro suburbs supports the highest rates in the country.
Painting Demand in New York 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 York?
In New York, painting rates range from $44-$83/hour, with an average of $55/hour. New York's cost of living is 123% of the national average. Major cities like New York City command higher rates ($84/hr), while smaller markets like Syracuse average $40/hr.
What's the New York average for painting services?
The New York statewide average for painting is $55/hour or approximately $165-$275 per job. This reflects New York's 123% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which New York cities have the highest painting rates?
In New York, New York City has the highest painting rates at around $84/hour due to its 187% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester.
Do I need a license for painting in New York?
New York licensing: NYC has extensive licensing for high-rise window cleaning Upstate is much simpler Workers comp strictly enforced NYC requires Consumer Affairs license for many services 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 York a good market for painting businesses?
New York offers a strong market for painting with rates averaging $55/hour. The state's 123% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for New York 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 York Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026