How Much to Charge for Painting in Bismarck?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Bismarck metro area has approximately 29,449 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Lower competition here means new providers can quickly become the neighborhood favorite.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $43/hr based on Bismarck wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,256 - $1,570
$0.94/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Bismarck Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Bismarck.
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) | $190 | $380 | $665 |
| Per hour | $33 | $43 | $62 |
Prices adjusted for Bismarck cost of living (95% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Bismarck?
Estimates based on Bismarck average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Bismarck vs Other North Dakota Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bismarck | $43/hr | 95% | medium |
| West Fargo(most expensive) | $45/hr | 100% | high |
| Grand Forks(most affordable) | $41/hr | 92% | medium |
| North Dakota Average | $43/hr | 96% | - |
Market Position: Bismarck
Bismarck sits at the state average for North Dakota - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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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.
Bismarck 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 Bismarck?
In Bismarck, ND, you should charge $43-$64/hour for painting. This is 5% below the national average because Bismarck's cost of living is 95% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $86-$214.
What's the average painting rate in Bismarck, North Dakota?
The average painting rate in Bismarck is $43/hour or $128 per job. Bismarck has average demand with a population of 74K. Local pros typically charge $34-$64/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Bismarck?
Painting companies in Bismarck charge $34-$64/hour (95% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $34/hour, while complex work commands $64+/hour. The average demand in Bismarck supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Bismarck?
Key pricing factors in Bismarck: (1) Cost of living - 5% below national average at 95%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Bismarck's 74K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in North Dakota?
North Dakota licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with ND Secretary of State Workers comp through state-run WSI 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 Bismarck a good market for painting businesses?
Bismarck shows average demand for painting services. With 74K residents and a 95% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $43-$64/hour. The North Dakota market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Bismarck painting prices compare to North Dakota average?
Bismarck painting prices are typically 5% below the North Dakota state average. While state average is around $43/hour, Bismarck pros charge $43/hour due to the city's 95% cost of living index.
Other Services in Bismarck
Other North Dakota Cities
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Bismarck, 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