If you’re researching how much exterior house painting costs, you’re likely preparing for a major home improvement decision. Painting the outside of your home is not just about aesthetics—it protects siding, prevents moisture damage, increases property value, and extends the lifespan of exterior materials.
The cost to paint the exterior of a house varies widely across the United States, and understanding what drives those costs can help you budget realistically and avoid unexpected expenses.
On average, homeowners spend between $3,500 and $8,500 for a full professional repaint. When broken down further, the exterior house painting cost per square foot typically ranges from $1.50 to $4.50, depending on labor, prep work, and material quality.
Let’s explore the details so you can understand exactly where your money goes.
Average Exterior House Painting Cost in the U.S.
The average cost to paint a house exterior depends on more than just square footage. While national averages hover around $2.75 to $3.25 per square foot, this number reflects a standard repaint with moderate preparation.
For example:
- A 1,500 sq ft home may cost $2,500–$4,500
- A 2,000 sq ft home may cost $4,500–$6,500
- A 3,000 sq ft home may cost $4,500–$9,000
The cost of painting the exterior of a house increases when surfaces require extensive scraping, caulking, sanding, priming, or repairs. Homes with architectural complexity—such as dormers, decorative trim, or multiple rooflines—also increase labor time.
In higher-cost states like California, Washington, and New York, the house exterior painting cost is typically above the national average due to labor rates and insurance requirements.
Exterior House Painting Cost Per Square Foot Explained
Most contractors calculate the cost per square foot to paint exterior house because it provides a consistent pricing model. However, the price per square foot reflects much more than just paint coverage.
Basic Repaint ($1.50 – $2.50 Per Sq Ft)
This pricing applies when your home is in good condition. The existing paint is intact, there is minimal peeling, and only light cleaning is needed. In these cases, painters can move efficiently, reducing labor hours and overall cost.
A basic repaint usually includes:
- Pressure washing
- Minor spot sanding
- One coat of primer (if necessary)
- Two finish coats
This tier represents the lower end of the average exterior house painting cost spectrum.
Standard Prep & Repaint ($2.50 – $3.50 Per Sq Ft)
This is the most common scenario for homeowners asking, “What is the average cost to paint the exterior of a house?”
Standard preparation involves:
- Scraping peeling paint
- Filling cracks and nail holes
- Re-caulking seams
- Spot priming exposed surfaces
- Light wood repair
Preparation is labor-intensive and often determines the majority of the labor cost to paint the exterior of a house. Proper prep ensures the paint adheres correctly and lasts for years.
Extensive Prep or Repairs ($3.50 – $4.50+ Per Sq Ft)
If your home has visible wear, wood rot, damaged siding, or old lead-based coatings, costs increase significantly. Additional safety protocols, specialized materials, and repair work extend project timelines.
In these cases, the cost to paint exterior house per square foot reflects the added labor, not just paint.
Cost to Paint Exterior of House by Size
Square footage plays the largest role in determining total price.
Cost to Paint 1,000 Sq Ft House Exterior
Smaller homes often range from $1,500 to $3,500. While the total cost is lower, contractors may have minimum project fees that slightly increase the per-square-foot price.
Cost to Paint 1,500 Sq Ft House Exterior
Expect to pay $2,500 to $4,500 for a professional repaint. This size home typically requires two to four days of labor depending on condition.
Cost to Paint 2,000 Sq Ft House Exterior
The cost to paint 2000 sq ft house exterior averages between $4,500 and $6,500. This size represents one of the most common residential repaint projects in the U.S.
Cost to Paint 3,000 Sq Ft House Exterior
The cost to paint 3000 sq ft house exterior typically ranges from $4,500 to $9,000, depending heavily on the number of stories and siding material.
Cost to Paint 4,000–5,000 Sq Ft Homes
Larger homes can range from $6,000 to $15,000+, especially if they feature multi-story architecture, custom trim, or multiple paint colors.
Cost to Paint a 2-Story House Exterior
The average cost to paint a 2 story house exterior falls between $4,500 and $10,000.
Two-story homes cost more because:
- Additional safety equipment is required
- Setup time increases
- Labor risk and insurance costs rise
- Access challenges slow progress
The cost to paint exterior of 2 story house is often 20–35% higher than a comparable single-story structure.
Cost to Paint Brick House Exterior
Painting brick has become increasingly popular, but the cost to paint brick house exterior is higher than vinyl or wood siding.
Most homeowners spend $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot. Brick is porous and absorbs more paint, requiring specialized masonry primer and breathable coatings to prevent moisture issues.
Because of these technical requirements, the average cost to paint exterior brick house typically exceeds standard siding projects.
Cost to Paint Stucco House Exterior
The cost to paint exterior stucco house usually ranges from $2.50 to $5.50 per square foot.
Stucco’s textured surface increases paint consumption and labor time. Additionally, homes in hot climates may require elastomeric coatings that expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, adding to material costs.
Labor Cost to Paint Exterior of House
Labor is the largest component of the house painting cost exterior calculation. In most cases, labor accounts for 70% to 85% of the total price.
The average labor cost to paint exterior house ranges from $1.25 to $3.00 per square foot.
Factors influencing labor rates include:
- Geographic location
- Height and accessibility
- Level of prep required
- Architectural complexity
- Seasonal demand
Metropolitan markets tend to have higher labor costs than rural areas.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Exterior House Painting?
Several variables determine the final estimated cost for exterior house painting.
Surface Condition
Homes with peeling paint, mildew, cracks, or water damage require more preparation. Prep work directly impacts total labor hours.
Siding Type
Wood siding requires ongoing maintenance. Vinyl is easier to repaint. Brick and stucco require specialty coatings.
Number of Colors
Using multiple accent colors increases labor time and masking complexity.
Paint Quality
Higher-quality exterior paint may cost more upfront but often extends repaint cycles by several years.
Regional Labor Rates
The cost to paint house exterior California is typically higher than in states with lower labor costs. Climate also affects the type of paint required.
Professional vs DIY Exterior House Painting Cost
Many homeowners consider DIY to reduce expenses. The cost to paint house exterior yourself typically ranges from $800 to $2,500, depending on home size and paint quality.
However, DIY projects require:
- Equipment rental
- Multiple days of labor
- Safety precautions
- Surface preparation knowledge
Hiring professionals increases upfront investment but often results in longer-lasting finishes and warranty protection. The cost to have exterior house painted professionally may seem higher, but it reduces risk and future maintenance.
How Often Should You Repaint Your Home Exterior?
Most homes need repainting every 7 to 10 years. However, climate, paint quality, and sun exposure can shorten or extend this timeline.
Homes in coastal or high-UV areas may require more frequent repainting, which influences long-term cost of exterior house painting over time.
FAQs
- What is the average cost of painting a house exterior?
Most homeowners pay between $3,500 and $8,500 depending on size and prep needs.
- How much does it cost to paint exterior house per square foot?
The national average falls between $1.50 and $4.50 per square foot.
- How much does it cost to paint a 2,000 sq ft house exterior?
Expect to pay between $4,500 and $6,500 for a standard repaint.
- Does brick cost more to paint?
Yes. Painting brick typically costs 20–40% more than vinyl or wood siding.
- What increases exterior house painting cost the most?
Extensive surface repairs and multi-story access significantly increase costs.
- Is hiring a professional worth the cost?
In most cases, yes. Professional painting improves durability, finish quality, and resale value.
Final Thoughts
The cost to paint exterior of house depends on square footage, surface condition, labor rates, and materials. While the average cost to paint a house exterior falls between $3,500 and $8,500, your final price will reflect your home’s unique characteristics.
Getting multiple detailed estimates and understanding the scope of prep work will ensure you receive accurate pricing and long-term value.