Typical painting costs in Illinois (2026)
Estimated cost (hiring a painter) for common projects in Illinois, next to the US average. Change any option in the calculator above to price your exact project.
| Project | Illinois range | Illinois typical | US typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft bedroom | $473 – $1,006 | $740 | $673 |
| 12×12 ft bedroom | $586 – $1,245 | $916 | $833 |
| 14×16 ft living room | $729 – $1,548 | $1,139 | $1,035 |
| 12×12 ft room + ceiling | $840 – $1,784 | $1,312 | $1,193 |
What changes the price in Illinois
Illinois's climate: cold, windy winters with deep frost and hot, humid summers. These local factors matter most for painting projects:
- Lead paint in older homes. Much of Illinois's housing was built before 1978, when lead paint was banned. If a hired painter disturbs paint in a pre-1978 home, federal rules require an EPA RRP-certified firm and lead-safe practices, which can add to the price.
- Interior jobs are year-round; exterior isn't. Exterior painting here is usually limited to about May–October, so book interior work in winter when painters have more availability.
Labor, sales tax and permits in Illinois
- Labor and prices: Illinois's construction cost index is 1.10 — 10% above the US average, the 9th highest of the 50 states and DC. Prices in big metros (Chicago, Aurora, Naperville) usually run above the state average, and rural areas below it.
- Sales tax: 6.25% state rate plus local taxes (10.25% in Chicago). The estimates on this page don't include it.
- Building rules: Illinois follows local codes — most cities and villages adopt the IRC, while Chicago enforces its own Chicago Building Code. Permits and inspections are handled by your city or county, so confirm requirements with your local building department before you start.
Illinois vs. other large states
Painting a 12×12 ft bedroom (walls, 2 coats), hired painter — typical cost in the 10 most populous states:
| State | Typical cost | vs. US avg |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $741 | -11% |
| Georgia | $758 | -9% |
| Texas | $766 | -8% |
| Florida | $791 | -5% |
| Ohio | $808 | -3% |
| Michigan | $833 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $857 | +3% |
| Illinois | $916 | +10% |
| New York | $999 | +20% |
| California | $1,016 | +22% |
See all 50 states on the main paint calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much does painting a room cost in Illinois?
Painting a 12×12 ft bedroom (walls, 2 coats), hired painter costs about $586–$1,245 in Illinois (typical $916), compared with $833 at the US average. Your exact price depends on size, materials and your contractor — use the calculator above for your own numbers.
Do I need a permit for a paint project in Illinois?
It depends on the scope. Illinois follows local codes — most cities and villages adopt the IRC, while Chicago enforces its own Chicago Building Code. Small paint jobs often don't need a permit, but anything structural, electrical or plumbing-related usually does — check with your city or county building department.
Is painting a room cheaper in Illinois than in other states?
Illinois's construction cost index is 1.10, 10% above the US average and the 9th highest of the 50 states and DC. Among the 10 most populous states, Illinois ranks 8th cheapest for this project.
Does the estimate include sales tax?
No. Sales tax on materials in Illinois is 6.25% state rate plus local taxes (10.25% in Chicago). Contractors usually build it into their quotes, so compare quotes on the same basis.