How Much to Charge for Painting in Seattle?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Seattle metro area has approximately 294,806 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both. Costs in Seattle run 42% above the Washington state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $68/hr based on Seattle wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $2,573 - $3,216
$1.93/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Seattle Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Seattle.
Painting Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft (interior) | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| Per sq ft (exterior) | $3 | $5 | $8 |
| Per room (avg 12x12) | $304 | $608 | $1,064 |
| Per hour | $53 | $68 | $99 |
Prices adjusted for Seattle cost of living (152% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Seattle?
Estimates based on Seattle average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Seattle vs Other Washington Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $68/hr | 152% | very high |
| Bellevue(most expensive) | $72/hr | 160% | very high |
| Spokane(most affordable) | $43/hr | 95% | high |
| Washington Average | $50/hr | 110% | - |
Pricing Zones in Seattle
Tech-wealth neighborhoods with lakeside and waterfront homes.
Popular residential neighborhoods with steady demand.
Diverse, growing communities south of downtown.
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Washington Licensing Requirements
- •State business license required from Department of Revenue
- •No contractor license for maintenance services
- •Workers comp through state L&I
- •Seattle has specific 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.
Seattle Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Washington
Moss and algae grow year-round in Seattle's climate. Constant pressure washing demand.
Tech industry wealth (Seattle, Bellevue) supports premium pricing.
Key Insight: Washington's wet climate creates year-round exterior maintenance demand — embrace it.
Painting Demand in Washington 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 Seattle?
In Seattle, WA, you should charge $68-$103/hour for painting. This is 52% above the national average because Seattle's cost of living is 152% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $137-$342.
What's the average painting rate in Seattle, Washington?
The average painting rate in Seattle is $68/hour or $205 per job. Seattle has average demand with a population of 737K. Local pros typically charge $55-$103/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Seattle?
Painting companies in Seattle charge $55-$103/hour (152% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $55/hour, while complex work commands $103+/hour. The average demand in Seattle supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Seattle?
Key pricing factors in Seattle: (1) Cost of living - 52% above national average at 152%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Seattle's 737K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Washington?
Washington licensing requirements: State business license required from Department of Revenue No contractor license for maintenance services Workers comp through state L&I 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 Seattle a good market for painting businesses?
Seattle shows average demand for painting services. With 737K residents and a 152% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $68-$103/hour. The Washington market is significantly higher than for service businesses.
How do Seattle painting prices compare to Washington average?
Seattle painting prices are typically 52% above the Washington state average. While state average is around $50/hour, Seattle pros charge $68/hour due to the city's 152% cost of living index.
Other Services in Seattle
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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 Seattle, Washington 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
- Washington Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026