How Much to Charge for Painting in Richmond?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Richmond metro area has approximately 90,644 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $46/hr based on Richmond 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
Richmond Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Richmond.
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 Richmond cost of living (102% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Richmond?
Estimates based on Richmond average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Richmond vs Other Virginia Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond | $46/hr | 102% | high |
| Virginia Beach(most expensive) | $46/hr | 102% | very high |
| Newport News(most affordable) | $43/hr | 95% | high |
| Virginia Average | $47/hr | 104% | - |
Market Position: Richmond
Richmond sits at the state average for Virginia - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Virginia Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required for maintenance services
- •BPOL tax applies in most Virginia localities
- •Workers comp required at 3+ employees
- •NoVA may have 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.
Richmond Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Virginia
Northern Virginia (DC suburbs) has highest incomes in the country. Premium positioning works.
Historic areas (Williamsburg, Alexandria) require soft washing expertise.
Military bases (Norfolk, Quantico) offer stable commercial contracts.
Federal contractor registration (SAM) opens doors to government work.
Key Insight: Virginia's federal economy and wealthy suburbs create exceptional demand for professional service.
Painting Demand in Virginia 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 Richmond?
In Richmond, VA, you should charge $46-$69/hour for painting. This is 2% above the national average because Richmond'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 Richmond, Virginia?
The average painting rate in Richmond is $46/hour or $138 per job. Richmond has high demand with a population of 227K. Local pros typically charge $37-$69/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Richmond?
Painting companies in Richmond 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 Richmond supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Richmond?
Key pricing factors in Richmond: (1) Cost of living - 2% above national average at 102%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Richmond's 227K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Virginia?
Virginia licensing requirements: No state contractor license required for maintenance services BPOL tax applies in most Virginia localities Workers comp required at 3+ 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 Richmond a good market for painting businesses?
Richmond shows high demand for painting services. With 227K residents and a 102% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $46-$69/hour. The Virginia market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Richmond painting prices compare to Virginia average?
Richmond painting prices are typically 2% above the Virginia state average. While state average is around $47/hour, Richmond pros charge $46/hour due to the city's 102% cost of living index.
Other Services in Richmond
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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 Richmond, Virginia 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
- Virginia Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026