Imagine standing outside your home, looking at worn-out paint peeling off your siding. You want to give your house a fresh new look, but hesitate because you’re not sure about the price. You wonder, “How much does it cost to paint outside of the house?”
On average, homeowners in 2026 spend between $2,500 and $10,000 to paint the exterior of a typical 2,000-square-foot home. This usually translates to about $1.50 to $4 per square foot, but the price can vary widely depending on where you live. For example, in bustling urban areas like Lahore, Pakistan, costs tend to be higher due to higher labour and material prices.
Understanding house exterior painting cost is important because it’s not just about looks—it impacts your home’s curb appeal and even property value. A fresh coat of paint can boost resale value by 5-10%, while also protecting your home from weather damage.
Average Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Paint the Outside of a House?
Knowing the average cost helps you set realistic expectations. Here’s a glance at typical prices based on house size in 2026:
House Size (sq ft)Low-End Cost Average Cost High-End Cost Price per Sq Ft
1,000–1,500 $1,500 $3,000 $6,000 $1.50–$4
1,500–2,500 $3,000 $5,000–$7,500 $10,000 $2–$4.50
2,500+ $7,500 $10,000+ $15,000+ $3–$6
2026 Cost Updates
- Inflation Impact: Expect a 5-7% increase compared to previous years.
- Paint Prices: Eco-friendly, low-VOC paints are trending and cost about 10% more.
- Regional Differences: For example, in Lahore, Pakistan, prices range from PKR 150 to 400 per sq ft, reflecting labour and material costs.
How to Calculate Your Cost
You can estimate your total cost with this simple formula:
Total Cost = (Square Footage × Price per Sq Ft) + Prep and Labour Costs
Key Factors Influencing House Exterior Painting Cost
Painting costs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here are some important factors that can raise or lower your price:
House Size and Surface Area
The larger the house, the more paint and labour you need. Don’t forget to include all surfaces: walls, trim, gutters, and eaves. Measuring accurately saves surprises later.
Paint Type and Quality
- Budget Paint: About $20 per gallon; good for short-term projects.
- Premium Paint: Up to $80 per gallon; lasts longer and looks better.
- Eco-Friendly Paint: Adds about 20% more while being safer for your family and the environment.
Number of Stories and Accessibility
Two-story houses or homes with tricky angles usually cost 30-50% more because painters need scaffolding, ladders, or special equipment.
Exterior Material
Different surfaces require different preparation and paint types:
- Vinyl Siding: Usually cheaper and easier to paint.
- Brick or Stucco: Needs more prep work, increasing cost by 25% or more.
Condition and Prep Work
If your house has peeling paint, mould, or damage, expect to spend more on prep. This can be up to half the total cost, including power washing, scraping, and priming.
Location and Labour Rates
Urban areas generally have higher labour rates. For example, painters in Lahore charge between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on experience.
Additional Features and Timing
Painting trim, doors, and soffits can add 10-20% to the cost. Scheduling your paint job off-season might get you discounts.
Labour vs Materials: Detailed Cost Split
Understanding where your money goes helps you make smarter choices.
Labor Costs
Labour can account for 40-60% of your total cost. Painters typically charge between $1 and $3 per square foot or $500 to $2,000 per day.
Materials Breakdown
Item Cost per Unit Total for 2,000 sq ft Home
Paint/Primer $40–$80 per gallon $400–$1,200
Tools/Supplies $100–$500 $200–$800
DIY vs Professional Exterior Painting: Cost Comparison
Many homeowners consider painting their house themselves to save money. Here’s how DIY stacks up against professional services:
Aspect DIY Cost Savings Professional Cost (Full Service)
Time 1-2 weeks , 3-5 days
Quality Variable Guaranteed 5-10 years
Total Cost 50-70% less $3,000–$10,000
When to DIY
- Small homes or touch-ups.
- When you have the time and basic painting skills.
- Good weather conditions.
When to Hire Professionals
- Multi-story houses.
- Complex surfaces that require special prep.
- When you want a long-lasting, flawless finish.
Hidden Costs and How to Budget for House Exterior Painting
Painting isn’t just paint and brushes. Some costs might surprise you:
- Permits: $50–$200, depending on your city regulations.
- Disposal Fees: For old paint and debris.
- Repairs: Rotten wood or siding replacements can add $1,000 or more.
Budgeting Tip
Add a 20% buffer to your base cost to cover these extras, so if your estimate is $5,000, plan for $6,000 to be on the safe side.
Step-by-Step Guide to Estimating Your House Exterior Painting Cost
- Measure surface area carefully (walls, trim, eaves).
- Assess the condition of your exterior—note any peeling or damage.
- Research local labour and material rates—prices vary by location.
