How Much to Charge for Painting in Salem?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Salem metro area has approximately 70,214 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here. Salem costs are 8% below the Oregon average - price competitively to win volume.
Calculate Your Painting Price
Enter Your Details
Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $46/hr based on Salem wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,384 - $1,730
$1.04/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Salem Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Salem.
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) | $204 | $408 | $714 |
| Per hour | $36 | $46 | $66 |
Prices adjusted for Salem cost of living (102% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Salem?
Estimates based on Salem average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Salem vs Other Oregon Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salem | $46/hr | 102% | high |
| Portland(most expensive) | $53/hr | 118% | very high |
| Oregon Average | $50/hr | 110% | - |
Market Position: Salem
Salem is a value market in Oregon - costs are below the state average, so focus on volume and efficiency.
Your Business Misses 5-10 Calls a Day.
One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.
Every time you can't answer, that caller Googles the next business - and they pick up. 62% won't leave a voicemail. They won't call back. That's $200-500 walking out the door. Stop losing money - let AI answer while you work.
Instant Call Answering
Never miss a lead, even at 3 AM
Smart Scheduling
Books appointments directly to your calendar
SMS Follow-ups
Automatic text confirmations to callers
24/7 Availability
Works while you sleep, holidays included
"Best business tool I've added in years. Setup took 40 seconds and it was answering calls immediately."
- Mark T., Service Professional, Nebraska
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
Oregon Licensing Requirements
- •LCB license may be required for lawn care (check exemptions)
- •Pressure washing and window cleaning do not require CCB
- •Insurance required for LCB license
- •Workers comp required for all 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.
Salem Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Oregon
Year-round moss and algae growth creates constant pressure washing demand.
Portland's eco-conscious market responds to green cleaning methods. Use eco-friendly products.
Key Insight: Oregon's rainy climate creates year-round exterior cleaning demand — embrace the moisture.
Painting Demand in Oregon by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Offer 10-15% off-season discounts to maintain a steady client base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for painting in Salem?
In Salem, OR, you should charge $46-$69/hour for painting. This is 2% above the national average because Salem's cost of living is 102% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $92-$230.
What's the average painting rate in Salem, Oregon?
The average painting rate in Salem is $46/hour or $138 per job. Salem has high demand with a population of 176K. Local pros typically charge $37-$69/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Salem?
Painting companies in Salem charge $37-$69/hour (102% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $37/hour, while complex work commands $69+/hour. The high demand in Salem supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Salem?
Key pricing factors in Salem: (1) Cost of living - 2% above national average at 102%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Salem's 176K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Oregon?
Oregon licensing requirements: LCB license may be required for lawn care (check exemptions) Pressure washing and window cleaning do not require CCB Insurance required for LCB license 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 Salem a good market for painting businesses?
Salem shows high demand for painting services. With 176K residents and a 102% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $46-$69/hour. The Oregon market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Salem painting prices compare to Oregon average?
Salem painting prices are typically 2% above the Oregon state average. While state average is around $50/hour, Salem pros charge $46/hour due to the city's 102% cost of living index.
Other Services in Salem
Other Oregon Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Salem, Oregon 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
- Oregon Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026