How Much to Charge for Painting in Fargo?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Fargo metro area has approximately 50,396 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $44/hr based on Fargo wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,304 - $1,630
$0.98/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Fargo Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Fargo.
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) | $196 | $392 | $686 |
| Per hour | $34 | $44 | $64 |
Prices adjusted for Fargo cost of living (98% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Fargo?
Estimates based on Fargo average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Fargo vs Other North Dakota Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | $44/hr | 98% | high |
| West Fargo(most expensive) | $45/hr | 100% | high |
| Grand Forks(most affordable) | $41/hr | 92% | medium |
| North Dakota Average | $43/hr | 96% | - |
Market Position: Fargo
Fargo 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.
Fargo 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 Fargo?
In Fargo, ND, you should charge $44-$66/hour for painting. This is 2% below the national average because Fargo's cost of living is 98% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $88-$221.
What's the average painting rate in Fargo, North Dakota?
The average painting rate in Fargo is $44/hour or $132 per job. Fargo has high demand with a population of 126K. Local pros typically charge $35-$66/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Fargo?
Painting companies in Fargo charge $35-$66/hour (98% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $35/hour, while complex work commands $66+/hour. The high demand in Fargo supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Fargo?
Key pricing factors in Fargo: (1) Cost of living - 2% below national average at 98%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Fargo's 126K population creates high 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 Fargo a good market for painting businesses?
Fargo shows high demand for painting services. With 126K residents and a 98% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $44-$66/hour. The North Dakota market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Fargo painting prices compare to North Dakota average?
Fargo painting prices are typically 2% below the North Dakota state average. While state average is around $43/hour, Fargo pros charge $44/hour due to the city's 98% cost of living index.
Other Services in Fargo
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 Fargo, 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