Key Takeaways
Painting costs depend heavily on preparation work, surface condition, and number of coats.
Exterior painting usually costs more because of access, weather exposure, and safety requirements.
A good painting quote should clearly state paint brand, number of coats, preparation, and exclusions.
Low quotes may exclude patching, sanding, primer, scaffolding, or difficult access areas.
Overview
Painting costs vary widely depending on surface preparation, access, number of coats, paint quality, ceiling height, exterior exposure, and whether repairs are included before painting starts.
1. Typical Painting Costs
Use these ranges as a practical planning benchmark before comparing quotes. Final pricing depends on size, access, materials, labour, finish level, and site-specific conditions.
Single room
$300 – $900
Walls only or basic room repaint depending on size and condition.
Interior repaint
$3,000 – $12,000+
Multiple rooms, ceilings, trims, doors, and standard preparation.
Exterior repaint
$5,000 – $20,000+
House exterior, access equipment, weather-resistant paint, and surface preparation.
2. What Affects the Cost?
Every project is different. These are the major factors that can move the final price up or down.
Surface Preparation
Patching, sanding, washing, mould treatment, and primer can significantly affect labour.
Paint Quality
Premium paint, exterior-grade coatings, and specialist finishes cost more.
Access & Height
High ceilings, stairwells, double-storey exteriors, and scaffolding increase cost.
Scope Included
Walls, ceilings, trims, doors, fences, gutters, and fascia may be quoted separately.
3. Cost Breakdown
Here is a typical cost split for this type of project in Australia.
Total
$7,600
Labour
$4,200
55%
Paint & Materials
$1,800
24%
Preparation & Repairs
$1,000
13%
Access Equipment
$450
6%
Clean-up
$150
2%
Not sure which guide fits your project?
Start a free cost check and FairScope AI will recommend the right report level for your project.
It only takes 2 minutes
2,500+
Reports Generated
98%
Customer Satisfaction
Australia
Market Focused
Secure & Private
Your data is protected