How Much to Paint a Bedroom | Pricing Guide 2025
Curious about the real cost to paint a bedroom? Whether you’re revamping your sanctuary with a fresh coat of color, creating a new atmosphere, or prepping a home for sale, understanding the costs involved is essential to budget wisely and avoid unexpected surprises.
The price can vary based on factors like the size of the room, the type of paint you choose, the condition of the walls, and whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a professional.
In this article, we’ll break down what influences the overall cost, share tips on how to save money without sacrificing quality, and walk you through what to expect from both a DIY paint job and professional painting services.
With the right preparation, you can transform your space beautifully without breaking the bank!
What This Guide Covers
- Average costs to paint a bedroom (including size breakdowns)
- Factors affecting the total price
- Paint, labor, and material costs explained
- DIY vs. professional painting costs
- Tips to keep your project on budget
By the end, you’ll be able to estimate project costs with confidence—and know exactly where your money goes.
The Real Cost to Paint a Bedroom
Typical Price Range
Painting a standard bedroom costs anywhere from $300 to $1,000 for walls only.
If you want to include ceilings and trim, expect the total to climb to $600–$2,000, depending mainly on the room size, ceiling height, and paint quality.
Nationally, the average cost to paint a bedroom is around $624 (walls only), but your total might be higher or lower.
Bedroom Size Matters
| Bedroom Size | Walls Only | Walls, Trim & Ceiling |
| 10’x10’ (Small) | $320–$1,200 | $640–$2,400 |
| 12’x12’ (Average) | $380–$1,400 | $770–$2,900 |
| 15’x15’ (Large) | $480–$1,800 | $960–$3,600 |
Per Square Foot Pricing
Most pros charge $1–$3 per square foot for labor and materials when painting bedroom walls. Include trim and ceilings, and your per square foot cost rises to $4–$5.
Labor vs. Material Breakdown
- Labor: 70–85% of your total cost. Professionals get projects done quicker, with better quality and less hassle.
- Materials (Paint & Supplies): 15–30% of total cost. Quality paint can mean fewer coats and better durability.
What Impacts Bedroom Painting Costs?
1. Room Size and Ceiling Height
- Small bedrooms (10’x10’) are the cheapest to paint.
- Taller ceilings (above 10’) add 10–50% to the cost due to extra wall space and the need for ladders or scaffolding.
2. Preparation & Repairs
Minor wall patching and prep are usually included by painters but address any major drywall repairs ($100–$400 per crack) before starting.
Typical Prep Tasks:
- Moving furniture (may incur extra charges)
- Repairing nail holes or minor cracks
- Cleaning and sanding walls
- Taping edges and covering floors
3. Paint Quality and Type
Quality paint costs $30–$150 per room. Premium paints deliver better coverage, richer color, and longer-lasting finishes. You may need more paint for dramatic color changes or accent walls.
Paint Sheen Affects Cost:
- Flat/Matte: Less durable, cheaper
- Eggshell/Satin: Ideal for bedrooms (durable, not too shiny), mid-range cost
- Semi-gloss/Gloss: More durable, best for trim, costs more
4. Number of Coats and Colors
- Two coats are standard for full coverage.
- Multiple colors or accent walls generally increase paint and labor costs by 10–30%.
5. Geographical Location
Living in a city with higher labor rates, like San Francisco or New York, may double painting costs compared to smaller markets.
6. Time of Year and Project Complexity
Painters are often less busy (and somewhat less expensive) during colder months. Complex trim, moldings, or unusual wall layouts can also increase your estimate.
Paint, Labor, and Supplies Cost Breakdown
Paint
- $15–$50 per gallon for quality latex-based paints (covers 300–400 sq ft/gallon)
- $20–$70 per gallon for oil-based paints or higher sheen options
You’ll usually need 2–3 gallons of paint for walls in a standard bedroom, more with ceilings and trim.
Labor
- $1–$3 per square foot average for professional painters
- $250–$500 minimum fee common for one-room projects
Supplies
Essential supplies include tape, brushes, rollers, trays, drop cloths, ladders, and respirators. Some contractors may bill these separately if you request specialty finishes or repairs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY Painting Costs
Painting yourself usually costs $150–$300 for paint and supplies if you already have the basics. If you need to purchase new equipment like ladders or drop cloths, your total could reach $400–$700.
Pros of DIY
- Lower out-of-pocket cost
- Flexibility with timing
- Personal satisfaction
Cons of DIY
- Steeper learning curve
- Greater time commitment (6–10 hours for one room)
- Risk of visible mistakes (drips, uneven edges)
- Equipment costs add up quickly
- May need to purchase extra paint to correct errors
Professional Painter Costs
Expect to pay $400–$1,100 for professional labor per room. Pros:
- Faster completion (usually within one day)
- Quality assurance and clean-up
- Warranty or guarantee on the finished job
Handyman Painting Rates
A handyman may charge $50–$80 per hour to paint a room. While cheaper, it may mean lower quality and longer project timelines.
How to Save Money on Bedroom Painting
- Prep the space yourself: Clear furniture and remove wall hangings.
- Stick with neutral or lighter colors: Require fewer coats.
- Time it right: Ask about off-season discounts.
- Buy some supplies in bulk: For multiple rooms or future touch-ups.
- Compare quotes: Get 2–3 professional estimates before hiring.
Buying paint yourself won’t necessarily save much—pros get discounts and know how much to order. Incorrect paint type or quantity often causes costly delays.
FAQs
How much paint do you really need?
A 12×12 bedroom with 8-foot ceilings needs roughly 2 gallons for two coats on the walls. Add another gallon or two for ceilings and trim.
How long will it take to paint a bedroom?
A professional crew can often finish in 6–8 hours, including prep and cleaning. DIYers may need 1–2 days.
Should you move furniture yourself?
Some painters include basic furniture moving; others may charge $50–$80/hour. Confirm before signing a contract.
How to avoid unexpected fees?
Request a detailed, written estimate covering all aspects, from prep to clean-up. Disclose any wall repairs up front.
Conclusion
Painting your bedroom is a relatively affordable and effective way to refresh your home while also boosting its overall value. It allows you to update the space with a new look and feel, tailoring it to your personal style.
By understanding the costs and variables involved—such as the type of paint, the square footage, and whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself—you can plan your project efficiently.
Taking the time to prepare ahead of time can help you avoid common pitfalls like overspending or uneven finishes, ensuring a smoother and more satisfying result.