How Much to Charge for Painting in North Dakota?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 0.8M residents and a 66.8% homeownership rate, North Dakota has approximately 520,435 potential painting customers. An emerging market with room to establish yourself. Build relationships and grow with the community. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. North Dakota rates run about 8% lower than neighboring Montana - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $43/hr based on North Dakota wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,265 - $1,582
$0.95/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
North Dakota Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in North Dakota.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $1 | $2 | $4 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $192 | $384 | $672 |
| Per hour | $34 | $43 | $62 |
Prices adjusted for North Dakota cost of living (96% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in North Dakota?
Estimates based on North Dakota average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
North Dakota vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $43/hr | 96% | low |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Montana(neighbor) | $47/hr | 104% | medium |
| South Dakota(neighbor) | $41/hr | 92% | low |
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North Dakota Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with ND Secretary of State
- •Workers comp through state-run WSI
- •Simpler requirements than many states
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.
North Dakota Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in North Dakota
Very short season (May-September) means premium pricing is expected and necessary.
Oil industry presence in western ND creates commercial opportunities.
Limited competition in rural areas. Consider serving broader territory.
Winter salt and sand damage requires spring pressure washing.
Fargo-Moorhead metro has most concentrated demand. Focus here first.
Key Insight: North Dakota's harsh climate limits competitors — those who serve the market well can dominate.
Painting Demand in North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
In North Dakota, painting rates range from $34-$65/hour, with an average of $43/hour. North Dakota's cost of living is 96% of the national average. Major cities like West Fargo command higher rates ($45/hr), while smaller markets like Grand Forks average $41/hr.
What's the North Dakota average for painting services?
The North Dakota statewide average for painting is $43/hour or approximately $129-$215 per job. This reflects North Dakota's 96% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which North Dakota cities have the highest painting rates?
In North Dakota, West Fargo has the highest painting rates at around $45/hour due to its 100% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks.
Do I need a license for painting in North Dakota?
North Dakota licensing: No state contractor license required Register with ND Secretary of State Workers comp through state-run WSI Simpler requirements than many states 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 North Dakota a good market for painting businesses?
North Dakota offers a competitive market for painting with rates averaging $43/hour. The state's 96% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks.
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for North Dakota 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 Dakota Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026