| Option | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 1–2 rooms | $400–$600 |
| 3–4 rooms | $960–$1,440 |
| Whole house interior | $2,400–$3,600 |
| Whole house exterior | $3,600–$5,400 |
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| Home Size | Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (under 1,500 sq ft) | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Average (1,500–2,500 sq ft) | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Large (2,500–4,000 sq ft) | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Multi-story premium | $1,000–$3,000 extra |
| Trim only | $500–$2,000 |
Exterior paint lasts 5–10 years depending on climate, paint quality, and surface preparation. Surface prep (scraping, sanding, priming) is 60–70% of the labor cost and determines how long the paint job lasts — never skip prep to save money. Benjamin Moore Regal and Sherwin-Williams Duration are professional favorites that last 10–15 years in moderate climates. The best time to paint: dry weather between 50–85°F with low humidity (spring and fall in most areas). Two coats over proper primer is the minimum for a quality exterior paint job.
The cost of house painting exterior depends on several interconnected factors that can shift the final number significantly in either direction. Material quality is typically the largest variable — the gap between standard and premium options can double or triple the total project cost. Labor rates vary by region, with major metros running 30–50% higher than rural areas for identical work.
Project scope is the other major cost driver. What seems like a simple project can escalate quickly once walls are opened or existing conditions are revealed. This is why experienced contractors build contingency into their estimates, and why homeowners should too. The most common budget-breaker is changing the scope mid-project, which resets timelines and pricing.