Typical painting costs in Texas (2026)
Estimated cost (hiring a painter) for common projects in Texas, next to the US average. Change any option in the calculator above to price your exact project.
| Project | Texas range | Texas typical | US typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft bedroom | $396 – $841 | $619 | $673 |
| 12×12 ft bedroom | $490 – $1,042 | $766 | $833 |
| 14×16 ft living room | $609 – $1,295 | $952 | $1,035 |
| 12×12 ft room + ceiling | $702 – $1,492 | $1,097 | $1,193 |
What changes the price in Texas
Texas's climate: hot and humid in the east and along the Gulf, hot and dry in the west, with frequent spring hail. These local factors matter most for painting projects:
- Humidity slows drying. Run the AC or a dehumidifier while painting, and use mildew-resistant paint in bathrooms and laundry rooms.
- Book exterior work for spring or fall. In summer heat, crews start early and avoid painting surfaces in direct sun, which causes lap marks and fast drying.
Labor, sales tax and permits in Texas
- Labor and prices: Texas's construction cost index is 0.92 — 8% below the US average, the 39th highest of the 50 states and DC. Prices in big metros (Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, San Antonio) usually run above the state average, and rural areas below it.
- Sales tax: 6.25% state rate, up to 8.25% with local taxes. The estimates on this page don't include it.
- Building rules: Texas follows the International Residential Code inside city limits (many unincorporated county areas have little or no residential code, though HOA rules still apply). Permits and inspections are handled by your city or county, so confirm requirements with your local building department before you start.
Texas 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 Texas?
Painting a 12×12 ft bedroom (walls, 2 coats), hired painter costs about $490–$1,042 in Texas (typical $766), 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 Texas?
It depends on the scope. Texas follows the International Residential Code inside city limits (many unincorporated county areas have little or no residential code, though HOA rules still apply). 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 Texas than in other states?
Texas's construction cost index is 0.92, 8% below the US average and the 39th highest of the 50 states and DC. Among the 10 most populous states, Texas ranks 3rd cheapest for this project.
Does the estimate include sales tax?
No. Sales tax on materials in Texas is 6.25% state rate, up to 8.25% with local taxes. Contractors usually build it into their quotes, so compare quotes on the same basis.