How Much to Charge for Painting in Milwaukee?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Milwaukee metro area has approximately 230,889 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: $41/hr based on Milwaukee wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $1,190 - $1,488
$0.89/sq ft - 17.6h estimated
5 gallons of paint needed + 3 gallons primer
Cost Breakdown
Milwaukee Painting Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for painting in Milwaukee.
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) | $184 | $368 | $644 |
| Per hour | $32 | $41 | $60 |
Prices adjusted for Milwaukee cost of living (92% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Painting in Milwaukee?
Estimates based on Milwaukee average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Milwaukee vs Other Wisconsin Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | $41/hr | 92% | high |
| Madison(most expensive) | $46/hr | 102% | very high |
| Racine(most affordable) | $38/hr | 85% | medium |
| Wisconsin Average | $42/hr | 93% | - |
Pricing Zones in Milwaukee
Lake-adjacent affluent communities with well-kept properties.
Mixed urban-suburban neighborhoods with reliable demand.
Working-class neighborhoods with competitive pricing.
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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.
Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee?
In Milwaukee, WI, you should charge $41-$62/hour for painting. This is 8% below the national average because Milwaukee's cost of living is 92% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $83-$207.
What's the average painting rate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
The average painting rate in Milwaukee is $41/hour or $124 per job. Milwaukee has high demand with a population of 577K. Local pros typically charge $33-$62/hour depending on complexity.
How much do painting companies charge per hour in Milwaukee?
Painting companies in Milwaukee charge $33-$62/hour (92% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $33/hour, while complex work commands $62+/hour. The high demand in Milwaukee supports these rates.
What factors affect painting prices in Milwaukee?
Key pricing factors in Milwaukee: (1) Cost of living - 8% below national average at 92%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Milwaukee's 577K population creates high 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 Milwaukee a good market for painting businesses?
Milwaukee shows high demand for painting services. With 577K residents and a 92% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $41-$62/hour. The Wisconsin market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Milwaukee painting prices compare to Wisconsin average?
Milwaukee painting prices are typically 8% below the Wisconsin state average. While state average is around $42/hour, Milwaukee pros charge $41/hour due to the city's 92% 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 Milwaukee, 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