How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Home in Charleston, SC?
Painting your home in South Carolina, especially in the coastal low country of Charleston, is one of the most effective ways to refresh its look, boost curb appeal, and protect your investment. But before you hire a professional, it’s helpful to understand what goes into the cost of painting a home in Charleston, SC and the rest of the Palmetto state.
In this guide you’ll learn:
- Average cost per square foot for interior and exterior painting
- Price ranges for common project types
- Factors that influence your final quote
Average Cost to Paint a Home in Charleston, SC
On average, the cost for professional painting in South Carolina ranges from:
- Interior painting: $3 – $8 per square foot
- Exterior painting: $3 – $10 per square foot
The cost per sqft will vary from company to company and depend on a number of factors discussed below but this should give you a good ballpark range. If your quote comes in too low or too high, ensure your chosen contractor will deliver on a quality finish!
Additionally, double check that your final quote includes paint materials for walls, ceilings & trim.
Examples of Common Paint Projects and Costs
Interior Painting Projects
- Small Bathroom: $500 – $750
- 12×12 (144 sqft) Bedroom:Â $700 – $1,000
- 20×20 (400 sqft)Â Living Room: $1,500 – $2,400
Exterior Painting Projects
- Full Exterior Repaint of 2,000 sqft Home: $6,000 – $20,000
Questions to Consider When Pricing Your Paint Project in Charleston, SC
Many of our customers at Low Country Painting, LLC in Charleston, SC come to us thinking their paint job is as simple as buying a few gallons of paint and rolling it on their walls, but the truth is, there’s often a lot more involved to achieve a professional paint finish.
Here are some important questions to ask yourself while estimating what your paint costs will be:
Are you painting the interior or exterior of your home?
Interior and exterior painting differ greatly in cost. Interior projects typically involve prep work like protecting floors, moving furniture, and cutting in around trim, while exterior jobs may require time for ladder work, scaffolding, high-performance paints, and sometimes more labor due to Charleston’s environment. Exterior jobs are usually more expensive because of the extra materials, prep involved and ensuring work is done safely.
What condition is your home in currently?
The better shape your home is in, the less prep work is needed. A smooth wall or exterior that only needs light sanding or a basic wash will cost less than one with cracks, peeling paint, or damage. Homes with existing surface issues require more effort, labor, and materials before new primer or paint finishes can even be applied.
Does the surface need repairs like new drywall or wood rot?
Yes, repairs can add to your final quote. For interiors, damaged drywall, nail pops, or water stains may need to be addressed first. For exteriors, wood rot is a common issue in Charleston due to high moisture, subtropical temperatures and air. Replacing or repairing damaged areas ensures the paint adheres properly, providing longer surface protection and a better overall finish.
How difficult is the job?
Accessibility plays a big role in pricing. Homes with tall ceilings, elaborate trim packages, or multiple stories require ladders, scaffolding, or specialized equipment. Hard-to-reach exterior surfaces, steep rooflines, and intricate architectural details can increase both time and labor costs.
How many square feet is the project?
Square footage is one of the most straightforward cost factors. The larger the space, the more paint, prep work, and labor hours required. This is why most painting estimates are calculated on a per-square-foot basis as shown above.
Is your home susceptible to harsh elements like salt and wind?
Charleston homes near the coast face extra wear from salt air, high humidity, and strong winds. Because of this, higher-quality paints, primers, and protective finishes may be recommended. These premium products can increase costs upfront but protect your home and extend the life of the paint job.
What type of finish and color do you want?
Paint sheen (flat, satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss) may affect price. Glossy or specialty finishes often require more coats and precision to achieve the desired look. Dark colors or bold shades may also require additional coats for full coverage, raising your project material and labor costs.
Do you need help moving furniture?
For interior jobs, furniture moving and room prep can add time and labor to your quote. If your assigned painting crew has to handle large or delicate items, you may see a slight increase compared to projects where everything is cleared ahead of time.
Are you looking for detailed trim work or a multi colored finish?
Custom details like crown molding, baseboards, accent walls, or multi-color schemes require more attention to detail and time. Precision brushwork, careful taping, and extra coats all add to the labor costs. These touches elevate the look of your home but can also raise the overall price.
Looking to Hire a Professional Painting Company?
Our team at Low Country Painting, LLC in Charleston, SC has been provoding painting services to the Palmetto state for over 21 years. You could say we know a thing or two about painting homes. From small interior projects to comprehensive exterior painting, our team guarantees competitive pricing and a quality, long-lasting finish. Reach out to us today to schedule a free painting estimate for your home or commercial property!