How Much to Charge for Painting in Ohio?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 11.8M residents and a 67.3% homeownership rate, Ohio has approximately 7,941,029 potential painting customers. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention. Demand for painting stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable.
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Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with Ohio statewide rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Ohio wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,146 - $1,432
$0.86/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Ohio Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Ohio.
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) | $178 | $356 | $623 |
| Per hour | $31 | $40 | $58 |
Prices adjusted for Ohio cost of living (89% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Ohio?
Estimates based on Ohio average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Ohio vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $40/hr | 89% | high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Michigan(neighbor) | $41/hr | 90% | high |
| Indiana(neighbor) | $41/hr | 90% | high |
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Ohio Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Workers comp through state-run Ohio BWC
- •Local licenses vary by city
- •Register with Ohio Secretary of State
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.
Ohio Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Ohio
Three major metros (Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati) are distinct markets with different dynamics.
Columbus is fastest-growing Ohio city. Target new construction neighborhoods.
Spring thaw creates muddy conditions. Pressure washing demand spikes March-April.
Key Insight: Ohio's diverse metros offer different opportunities — Columbus growth vs Cleveland stability.
Painting Demand in Ohio 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 Ohio?
In Ohio, painting rates range from $32-$60/hour, with an average of $40/hour. Ohio's cost of living is 89% of the national average. Major cities like Columbus command higher rates ($42/hr), while smaller markets like Toledo average $37/hr.
What's the Ohio average for painting services?
The Ohio statewide average for painting is $40/hour or approximately $120-$200 per job. This reflects Ohio's 89% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Ohio cities have the highest painting rates?
In Ohio, Columbus has the highest painting rates at around $42/hour due to its 93% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati.
Do I need a license for painting in Ohio?
Ohio licensing: No state contractor license required Workers comp through state-run Ohio BWC Local licenses vary by city Register with Ohio Secretary of State 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 Ohio a good market for painting businesses?
Ohio offers a competitive market for painting with rates averaging $40/hour. The state's 89% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Ohio 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
- Ohio Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026