How Much to Charge for Painting in Charleston?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Charleston metro area has approximately 60,091 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Costs in Charleston run 13% above the South Carolina state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Charleston wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,435 - $1,794
$1.08/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Charleston Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Charleston.
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) | $210 | $420 | $735 |
| Per hour | $37 | $47 | $68 |
Prices adjusted for Charleston cost of living (105% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Charleston?
Estimates based on Charleston average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Charleston vs Other South Carolina Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston | $47/hr | 105% | very high |
| Mount Pleasant(most expensive) | $50/hr | 112% | very high |
| Rock Hill(most affordable) | $40/hr | 88% | high |
| South Carolina Average | $41/hr | 92% | - |
Market Position: Charleston
Charleston is a premium market in South Carolina - costs here are above the state average, supporting higher service rates.
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South Carolina Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with SC Secretary of State
- •Workers comp required at 4+ employees
- •Local licenses required in cities
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.
Charleston Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in South Carolina
Charleston's historic district requires soft washing expertise. Training is essential.
Palmetto bugs (roaches) thrive in SC humidity. Pressure washing helps control them.
Hurricane season prep and cleanup services are essential (June-November).
Retirement communities (Hilton Head, Sun City) value reliability over rock-bottom prices.
Key Insight: South Carolina's tourism and retirement demographics create strong year-round demand.
Painting Demand in South Carolina 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 Charleston?
In Charleston, SC, you should charge $47-$71/hour for painting. This is 5% above the national average because Charleston's cost of living is 105% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $95-$236.
What's the average painting rate in Charleston, South Carolina?
The average painting rate in Charleston is $47/hour or $142 per job. Charleston has average demand with a population of 150K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Charleston?
Painting companies in Charleston charge $38-$71/hour (105% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $38/hour, while complex work commands $71+/hour. The average demand in Charleston supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Charleston?
Key pricing factors in Charleston: (1) Cost of living - 5% above national average at 105%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Charleston's 150K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in South Carolina?
South Carolina licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with SC Secretary of State Workers comp required at 4+ 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.
Is Charleston a good market for painting businesses?
Charleston shows average demand for painting services. With 150K residents and a 105% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The South Carolina market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Charleston painting prices compare to South Carolina average?
Charleston painting prices are typically 5% above the South Carolina state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Charleston pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 105% cost of living index.
Other Services in Charleston
Other South Carolina Cities
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Charleston, South Carolina 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
- South Carolina Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026