How Much to Charge for Painting in Madison?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Madison metro area has approximately 107,936 households - potential painting clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here. Costs in Madison run 9% above the Wisconsin state average, supporting higher rates.
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Include hallways
Wall surface area
Suggested: $46/hr based on Madison 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
Madison Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Madison.
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 Madison cost of living (102% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Madison?
Estimates based on Madison average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Madison vs Other Wisconsin Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | $46/hr | 102% | very high |
| Racine(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Wisconsin Average | $42/hr | 93% | - |
Market Position: Madison
Madison is a premium market in Wisconsin - costs here are above the state average, supporting higher service rates.
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Wisconsin Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with WI Department of Financial Institutions
- •Workers comp required at 3+ employees
- •Local licenses vary by city
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.
Madison Painting Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful painting business in Wisconsin
Lake house properties (Door County, Lake Geneva) are premium seasonal market.
Milwaukee and Madison are distinct markets with different customer bases.
Spring salt damage creates pressure washing demand March-April.
Key Insight: Wisconsin's lake culture and seasonal tourism create strong supplemental revenue opportunities.
Painting Demand in Wisconsin 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 Madison?
In Madison, WI, you should charge $46-$69/hour for painting. This is 2% above the national average because Madison'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 Madison, Wisconsin?
The average painting rate in Madison is $46/hour or $138 per job. Madison has average demand with a population of 270K. Local pros typically charge $37-$69/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Madison?
Painting companies in Madison charge $37-$69/hour (102% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $37/hour, while complex work commands $69+/hour. The average demand in Madison supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Madison?
Key pricing factors in Madison: (1) Cost of living - 2% above national average at 102%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Madison's 270K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for painting in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with WI Department of Financial Institutions 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 Madison a good market for painting businesses?
Madison shows average demand for painting services. With 270K residents and a 102% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $46-$69/hour. The Wisconsin market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Madison painting prices compare to Wisconsin average?
Madison painting prices are typically 2% above the Wisconsin state average. While state average is around $42/hour, Madison pros charge $46/hour due to the city's 102% cost of living index.
Other Services in Madison
Other Wisconsin Cities
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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 Madison, Wisconsin 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
- Wisconsin Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026