How Much to Charge for Painting in Scranton?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Scranton metro area has approximately 30,799 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A growing market - get in early, build your reputation, and watch your client base expand. Scranton costs are 11% below the Pennsylvania average - price competitively to win volume.
Calculate Your Painting Price
Enter Your Details
Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $38/hr based on Scranton wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,076 - $1,345
$0.81/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Scranton Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Scranton.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $1 | $2 | $3 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $170 | $340 | $595 |
| Per hour | $30 | $38 | $55 |
Prices adjusted for Scranton cost of living (85% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Scranton?
Estimates based on Scranton average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Scranton vs Other Pennsylvania Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scranton | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Philadelphia(most expensive) | $46/hr | 102% | high |
| Pennsylvania Average | $43/hr | 96% | - |
Market Position: Scranton
Scranton is a value market in Pennsylvania - 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
"Commercial painting jobs are competitive. Responding fastest wins - Voctiv gives me that edge."
- Frank J., Commercial Painter, Connecticut
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
Pennsylvania Licensing Requirements
- •HIC registration required for pressure washing over $500
- •Lawn care and window cleaning typically exempt
- •Philadelphia has additional requirements
- •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.
Scranton Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia suburbs (Main Line) have some of the highest incomes in the country.
Historic homes require gentle soft washing. Harsh pressure damages old materials.
PA Home Improvement Contractor registration required for work over $500.
Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are distinct markets. Choose one to master.
Key Insight: Pennsylvania's historic character and wealthy suburbs support premium positioning.
Painting Demand in Pennsylvania 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 Scranton?
In Scranton, PA, you should charge $38-$57/hour for painting. This is 15% below the national average because Scranton's cost of living is 85% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $77-$191.
What's the average painting rate in Scranton, Pennsylvania?
The average painting rate in Scranton is $38/hour or $115 per job. Scranton has average demand with a population of 77K. Local pros typically charge $31-$57/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Scranton?
Painting companies in Scranton charge $31-$57/hour (85% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $31/hour, while complex work commands $57+/hour. The average demand in Scranton supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Scranton?
Key pricing factors in Scranton: (1) Cost of living - 15% below national average at 85%, (2) Market demand - medium in this area, (3) Competition - Scranton's 77K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania licensing requirements: HIC registration required for pressure washing over $500 Lawn care and window cleaning typically exempt Philadelphia has additional requirements 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 Scranton a good market for painting businesses?
Scranton shows average demand for painting services. With 77K residents and a 85% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $38-$57/hour. The Pennsylvania market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Scranton painting prices compare to Pennsylvania average?
Scranton painting prices are typically 15% below the Pennsylvania state average. While state average is around $43/hour, Scranton pros charge $38/hour due to the city's 85% cost of living index.
Other Services in Scranton
Other Pennsylvania Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Scranton, Pennsylvania 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
- Pennsylvania Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026