Typical painting costs in Pennsylvania (2026)
Estimated cost (hiring a painter) for common projects in Pennsylvania, next to the US average. Change any option in the calculator above to price your exact project.
| Project | Pennsylvania range | Pennsylvania typical | US typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft bedroom | $443 – $942 | $693 | $673 |
| 12×12 ft bedroom | $549 – $1,166 | $857 | $833 |
| 14×16 ft living room | $682 – $1,450 | $1,066 | $1,035 |
| 12×12 ft room + ceiling | $786 – $1,670 | $1,228 | $1,193 |
What changes the price in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's climate: cold winters with regular freeze–thaw cycles and warm, humid summers. These local factors matter most for painting projects:
- Lead paint in older homes. Much of Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania
- Labor and prices: Pennsylvania's construction cost index is 1.03 — 3% above the US average, the 18th highest of the 50 states and DC. Prices in big metros (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown) usually run above the state average, and rural areas below it.
- Sales tax: 6% state rate; 7% in Allegheny County (Pittsburgh) and 8% in Philadelphia. The estimates on this page don't include it.
- Building rules: Pennsylvania follows the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), which applies statewide and is based on the IRC. Permits and inspections are handled by your city or county, so confirm requirements with your local building department before you start.
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Painting a 12×12 ft bedroom (walls, 2 coats), hired painter costs about $549–$1,166 in Pennsylvania (typical $857), 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 Pennsylvania?
It depends on the scope. Pennsylvania follows the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), which applies statewide and is based on the IRC. 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 Pennsylvania than in other states?
Pennsylvania's construction cost index is 1.03, 3% above the US average and the 18th highest of the 50 states and DC. Among the 10 most populous states, Pennsylvania ranks 7th cheapest for this project.
Does the estimate include sales tax?
No. Sales tax on materials in Pennsylvania is 6% state rate; 7% in Allegheny County (Pittsburgh) and 8% in Philadelphia. Contractors usually build it into their quotes, so compare quotes on the same basis.