How Much to Charge for Painting in Raleigh?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Raleigh metro area has approximately 187,879 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both. Costs in Raleigh run 10% above the North Carolina state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Raleigh wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,435 - $1,794
$1.08/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Raleigh Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Raleigh.
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) | $210 | $420 | $735 |
| Per hour | $37 | $47 | $68 |
Prices adjusted for Raleigh cost of living (105% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Raleigh?
Estimates based on Raleigh average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Raleigh vs Other North Carolina Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | $47/hr | 105% | very high |
| Winston-Salem(most affordable) | $40/hr | 88% | high |
| North Carolina Average | $43/hr | 95% | - |
Market Position: Raleigh
Raleigh is a premium market in North Carolina - costs here are above the state average, supporting higher service rates.
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North Carolina Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with NC Secretary of State
- •Workers comp required at 3+ employees
- •Some cities require privilege licenses
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.
Raleigh Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in North Carolina
Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) tech workers pay premium for reliable service.
Charlotte is one of fastest-growing US metros. New construction = new customers.
Key Insight: North Carolina's explosive growth and diverse geography create abundant opportunities.
Painting Demand in North Carolina 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 Raleigh?
In Raleigh, NC, you should charge $47-$71/hour for painting. This is 5% above the national average because Raleigh's cost of living is 105% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $95-$236.
What's the average painting rate in Raleigh, North Carolina?
The average painting rate in Raleigh is $47/hour or $142 per job. Raleigh has average demand with a population of 470K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Raleigh?
Painting companies in Raleigh charge $38-$71/hour (105% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $38/hour, while complex work commands $71+/hour. The average demand in Raleigh supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Raleigh?
Key pricing factors in Raleigh: (1) Cost of living - 5% above national average at 105%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Raleigh's 470K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in North Carolina?
North Carolina licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with NC Secretary of State Workers comp required at 3+ 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 Raleigh a good market for painting businesses?
Raleigh shows average demand for painting services. With 470K residents and a 105% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The North Carolina market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Raleigh painting prices compare to North Carolina average?
Raleigh painting prices are typically 5% above the North Carolina state average. While state average is around $43/hour, Raleigh pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 105% cost of living index.
Other Services in Raleigh
Other North Carolina Cities
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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 Raleigh, North Carolina 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
- North Carolina Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026