Exterior Painting Cost (2026)
By the Home Repair One data team · Updated July 2026 · Ranges from our estimator engine
Short answer: In 2026, exterior painting typically runs $2,150–$9,500. A small home around 1,200 square feet of wall surface is about $2,150–$3,250. An average home around 2,200 square feet lands $4,000–$6,000. A large home around 3,500 square feet can reach $6,250–$9,500. Those bands include prep and materials. Scraping, priming, and caulking are most of the job. Skipping a wash is a common reason the coat fails in a season. Trim and south faces wear first.
Free instant estimate
See your own price now
Answer a few quick questions, your local range appears instantly, no email required to see it.
See my price range(561) 220-0117No email to see your price · One vetted pro, matched to you
Exterior painting cost by wall area
We price by wall surface, not floor area. Stories and access matter as much as the square-foot count. Here are 2026 national ranges from our cost model.
| Scope | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Small home (~1,200 sq ft) | $2,150–$3,250 |
| Average home (~2,200 sq ft) | $4,000–$6,000 |
| Large home (~3,500 sq ft) | $6,250–$9,500 |
Prep is the job
Washing off dirt, chalking, and mildew is required so the new coat bonds. Scraping failed film, priming bare wood, and caulking joints take more time than rolling. Cheap paint is not where the bill lives. Labor is.
Weather window and color count
Dry, mild seasons are the right window in most regions. Extra colors add cut-in time. Body and trim on different schedules is normal. A well-prepped acrylic job often lasts 7–10 years, shorter on harsh sun and salt air.
What changes your price
- Wall surface in square feet and the number of stories.
- Prep: washing, scraping, priming, and caulking failed joints.
- Trim, soffits, and doors versus walls only.
- Color count, paint quality, and how tight the weather window is.
Free instant estimate
Get your own number
Averages only get you so far, your scope and ZIP produce a specific range in under a minute.
See my price range(561) 220-0117No email to see your price · One vetted pro, matched to you
FAQ
How much does exterior painting cost?
A small home often runs $2,150–$3,250. An average home is about $4,000–$6,000. A large home can reach $6,250–$9,500. Prep is most of the bill.
Do I need to pressure wash before painting?
Yes. Dirt, chalking, and mildew have to come off or the new coat will not bond. Skipping the wash is a common reason exterior paint peels in a season.
How long does exterior paint last?
A well-prepped acrylic job often lasts 7–10 years, shorter on harsh sun and salt air. Trim and south faces fail first. Body and trim on different schedules is normal.