How Much to Charge for Painting in Austin?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Austin metro area has approximately 391,563 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both. Costs in Austin run 13% above the Texas state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $47/hr based on Austin 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
Austin Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Austin.
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 Austin cost of living (105% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Austin?
Estimates based on Austin average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Austin vs Other Texas Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $47/hr | 105% | very high |
| San Antonio(most affordable) | $41/hr | 90% | very high |
| Texas Average | $41/hr | 92% | - |
Pricing Zones in Austin
West Austin's premium corridor - tech wealth drives demand.
Austin's booming suburbs and trendy central neighborhoods.
Fast-growing outer suburbs with new construction.
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Texas Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Workers comp is optional (non-subscriber state)
- •Sales tax permit required from Comptroller
- •No state income tax
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.
Austin Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Texas
Texas is not one market — Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio have different dynamics.
Summer heat (100°F+) means early morning scheduling is essential.
Storm cleanup after 100+ thunderstorm days per year is lucrative.
Key Insight: Texas's massive scale and growth create endless opportunity — but pick your metro and dominate it.
Painting Demand in Texas 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 Austin?
In Austin, TX, you should charge $47-$71/hour for painting. This is 5% above the national average because Austin'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 Austin, Texas?
The average painting rate in Austin is $47/hour or $142 per job. Austin has average demand with a population of 979K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Austin?
Painting companies in Austin 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 Austin supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Austin?
Key pricing factors in Austin: (1) Cost of living - 5% above national average at 105%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Austin's 979K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Texas?
Texas licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Workers comp is optional (non-subscriber state) Sales tax permit required from Comptroller 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 Austin a good market for painting businesses?
Austin shows average demand for painting services. With 979K residents and a 105% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The Texas market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Austin painting prices compare to Texas average?
Austin painting prices are typically 5% above the Texas state average. While state average is around $41/hour, Austin pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 105% 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 Austin, Texas 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
- Texas Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026