How Much to Charge for Painting in Knoxville?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Knoxville metro area has approximately 76,296 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. A bustling market where consistent quality and fair pricing build loyal clientele fast.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $40/hr based on Knoxville wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,137 - $1,422
$0.85/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Knoxville Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Knoxville.
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) | $176 | $352 | $616 |
| Per hour | $31 | $40 | $57 |
Prices adjusted for Knoxville cost of living (88% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Knoxville?
Estimates based on Knoxville average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Knoxville vs Other Tennessee Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knoxville | $40/hr | 88% | high |
| Nashville(most expensive) | $46/hr | 102% | very high |
| Memphis(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | high |
| Tennessee Average | $41/hr | 90% | - |
Market Position: Knoxville
Knoxville sits at the state average for Tennessee - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Tennessee Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •No state income tax
- •Workers comp required at 5+ employees
- •County business tax applies to most businesses
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.
Knoxville Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Tennessee
Nashville is one of fastest-growing US metros. New construction means new customers.
No state income tax keeps operating costs lower. Competitive advantage.
Key Insight: Tennessee's explosive growth and no state income tax make it excellent for building a business.
Painting Demand in Tennessee 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 Knoxville?
In Knoxville, TN, you should charge $40-$59/hour for painting. This is 12% below the national average because Knoxville's cost of living is 88% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $79-$198.
What's the average painting rate in Knoxville, Tennessee?
The average painting rate in Knoxville is $40/hour or $119 per job. Knoxville has high demand with a population of 191K. Local pros typically charge $32-$59/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Knoxville?
Painting companies in Knoxville charge $32-$59/hour (88% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $32/hour, while complex work commands $59+/hour. The high demand in Knoxville supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Knoxville?
Key pricing factors in Knoxville: (1) Cost of living - 12% below national average at 88%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Knoxville's 191K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Tennessee?
Tennessee licensing requirements: No state contractor license required No state income tax Workers comp required at 5+ 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 Knoxville a good market for painting businesses?
Knoxville shows high demand for painting services. With 191K residents and a 88% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $40-$59/hour. The Tennessee market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Knoxville painting prices compare to Tennessee average?
Knoxville painting prices are typically 12% below the Tennessee state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Knoxville pros charge $40/hour due to the city's 88% cost of living index.
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Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Painting pricing data for Knoxville, Tennessee 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
- Tennessee Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026