How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Room? DIY vs. Professional Painting

That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Painting your house can be complicated, but with our expertise, we make the process easy and stress-free for homeowners. With locations across the nation, we have helped tens of thousands of homeowners make the best choices for their homes without sacrificing quality, and we are here to show you how.

If you’re thinking about updating a room with a fresh coat of paint, one of the first things you’ll want to know is the cost. Whether you’re tackling the job yourself or hiring a professional, the total price can vary depending on the size of the room, the quality of materials, and the amount of preparation needed.

Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the typical costs and what each option involves.

DIY Painting Costs: What to Expect

If you plan to paint the room yourself, your main expenses will include the paint and a few essential tools. These typically include:

• Rollers and brushes
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
• Paint trays and extension poles

For an average room, the total cost of a DIY project generally ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the quality of the paint and tools you choose. Higher-end brushes and premium paints will increase the total, but they can also make the job easier and give you better long-term results.

DIY is a great option if you’re comfortable doing the work yourself, and especially if you’re only painting one or two rooms with straightforward walls and minimal trim.

Hiring a Professional Painter: What’s Included

When you hire a professional, the cost will include not only the paint and materials but also labor, time, and expertise. Most professional painters also take care of:

• Protecting furniture and floors
• Repairing small holes or imperfections
• Caulking and priming as needed
• Applying clean, even coats with the proper technique
• Cleanup and disposal of materials

For a standard room, you can expect to pay between $300 and $800, depending on a few key factors:

• The size of the room
• The amount of prep work required (like patching, sanding, or priming)
• The complexity of the job, such as painting ceilings, trim, or accent walls
• Your location and market rates

While the professional route costs more upfront, it can save time, reduce stress, and deliver a more polished result—especially for larger or more detailed spaces.

Which Option Is Right for You?

If you enjoy hands-on projects and have the time, painting a room yourself can be a fun and cost-effective way to refresh your space. Just be sure to prepare thoroughly and use quality materials for the best outcome.

On the other hand, if you’re short on time, tackling a larger project, or simply want a flawless finish without the hassle, hiring a professional might be the better investment.

Need a Quote or Some Friendly Advice?

At That 1 Painter, we help homeowners across the country get beautiful results that last. Whether you are weighing the cost of DIY versus professional painting or ready to book your project, our team is here to make the process easy from start to finish.

Call us today for a free quote. We’re happy to help you find the right solution for your home and your budget.