How much does painting a room's walls and ceiling cost?
Ceilings are slower to paint than walls because the painter works overhead and needs extra care around light fixtures and edges. Most people add the ceiling when they are already painting the walls, which is how the prices below are figured. A walls-only price is shown for comparison.
Painting a room's walls and ceiling prices at a glance
| Job | Newer pro | Experienced pro |
|---|---|---|
| Medium room (12x12), walls and ceiling | $535 | $975 |
| Large room (14x16), walls and ceiling | $670 | $1230 |
| Medium room (12x12), walls only, for comparison | $400 | $730 |
Labor and basic supplies. Big parts or appliances you buy yourself are extra. Prices run higher in big cities.
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What's usually included
- Furniture moved and covered, floors protected
- Light fixtures and smoke detectors covered or loosened
- Ceiling painted first with flat ceiling paint
- Walls painted with two coats once the ceiling is done
- Cleanup when the job is finished
What changes the price
- Ceiling height. Vaulted or extra-tall ceilings need taller ladders or scaffolding.
- Texture. Popcorn and heavy textured ceilings soak up more paint and are slower to roll.
- Stains. Water or smoke stains usually need a stain-blocking primer first.
- Room size. A larger ceiling simply takes more time and paint.
Do it yourself or hire a pro?
Painting a ceiling yourself is possible with an extension pole and a good roller, but it is messy and hard on your neck and shoulders. Stains often bleed through if they are not primed first. Many people who paint their own walls still hire out ceilings.
Common questions
Can I hire a painter for just the ceiling?
Yes, but many painters have a minimum charge, so a ceiling alone may cost close to a small room. The calculator prices ceilings along with walls.
Should ceilings be painted before walls?
Yes. Painting the ceiling first means any drips or roller spatter on the walls get covered when the walls are painted.
Can you paint a popcorn ceiling?
Yes, though it takes more paint and care. Popcorn texture in older homes can contain asbestos, so have it tested before scraping or sanding.
Got a quote for painting a room's walls and ceiling?
Enter your job details and see if the price is fair. Painters can build a price list too.