How Much Does It Cost to Paint an Apartment in NYC in 2025

Our Survey of 25 Painting Companies in Manhattan.

All painting quotes were collected and analyzed in December 2024.

In December 2024 we approached 25 NYC painting companies soliciting estimate for a particular 2-bedroom apartment in Manhattan that we randomly found on Zillow. We asked for all the walls, ceilings, baseboards & doors to be painted, including the closets. Out of 25 companies, we were able to get 12 estimates. Other companies chose to ignore our repeated attempts to contact them by email & via their websites.

The Total Price below includes both labor and paint costs. The painting companies provided their estimates in various formats. Some included paint costs, most did not. To make all the estimates comparable, we then added presumed paint costs ($700) to the quotes that did not include the paint.

The estimates did not include New York City Sales tax of 8,875%. For the simplification purposes, we also did not include the tax in our Total Price calculations, but we expect that just as with any price in New York City, you will be asked to pay the tax.

We then cross-checked all the estimates with Yelp. We do not recommend companies that have bad or no reviews.

Name	Total Price	Reviews on Yelp
Manhattan Painters ManhattanPainters.com	$4,500
S&A Painting	$4,600	no reviews
Johnattan Barsness	$5,500
Soho Painters	$5,200	no reviews
Precision Painting Plus	$6,124
Paintworks & Decorating NYC	$5,200
NT Home Concepts	$5,800	no reviews
Magic Roller Painters Services	$6,335	no reviews
212 Painter	$6,500
JB Painters	$6,500
Pristine Painters	$7,126
JP Interiors	$7,700

3 BEST NYC PAINTING COMPANIES BASED ON OUR RESEARCH

1. ManhattanPainters.com provided us the best estimate of $4,500 and have consistently superb reviews.

   ManhattanPainters.com is a professional painting service based in New York City, offering interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial properties. Founded with the goal of enhancing living and working spaces, they have become one of the most respected painting firms in NYC. The company provides services throughout Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Jersey City, Hoboken, Weehawken, Rockland, and Westchester counties. Led by Brett Malas, Manhattan Painters prides itself on using high-quality techniques and paints to elevate spaces. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and are fully insured with up to $2,000,000 in liability coverage. Customers consistently praise their professionalism, attention to detail, and fair pricing in reviews.

2. Jonathan Barsness. Estimated $5,500 for the same job, but has consistently good reviews on Yelp.

   Jonathan Barsness is a highly regarded interior painting company based in Brooklyn, New York, serving residential and commercial clients since 2005. Led by Jonathan Barsness, the company has built a strong reputation for providing prompt, neat, and professional paint jobs at competitive rates throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan. They specialize in interior painting, offering services for both homeowners looking to personalize their spaces and businesses seeking to create professional environments. The company is known for its attention to detail, expertise in repairing ceiling and wall damage from water leaks, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Jonathan Barsness and his team are fully insured, EPA lead paint certified, and offer "action over labor law" coverage for high-end buildings. Clients consistently praise their professionalism, efficiency, and quality of work, with many highlighting Jonathan's responsiveness and ability to work within tight schedules.

3. 212 Painter estimate was $6,500 high, but they also provide excellent service.

   212-PAINTER, also known as ColorTrend Painting Co., is a highly regarded painting service in New York City. Led by Damian Judge, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional painting services for residential and commercial properties. They offer a wide range of services including interior and exterior painting, apartment painting, office painting, and specialized techniques like spray painting. 212-PAINTER covers various areas in New York, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the five boroughs. Clients consistently praise the company for their professionalism, punctuality, and attention to detail. They are known for their ability to work within tight schedules and budgets while maintaining high-quality results. The company uses premium quality paint products and employs experienced, fully qualified painters. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and numerous positive reviews on platforms like Yelp, 212-PAINTER has established itself as a trusted name in the NYC painting industry.

How Much Does it Cost to Paint an Apartment in NYC? We asked ChatGPT.

Painting an apartment in New York City (NYC) is a strategic investment that enhances aesthetics and can increase property value. However, the costs associated with such a project vary based on several factors, including apartment size, paint quality, labor rates, and the complexity of the job. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the costs involved in professionally painting an NYC apartment, with detailed data points and insights into different pricing structures.

Factors Influencing Painting Costs

1. Apartment Size: The square footage directly impacts the amount of paint and labor required. Larger apartments naturally incur higher costs.

2. Paint Quality: Premium paints offer better durability and finish but come at a higher price point.

3. Labor Rates: NYC's labor rates are higher than the national average due to the city's cost of living and demand for skilled professionals.

4. Preparation Work: The condition of walls, including the need for repairs or extensive preparation, can add to the overall cost.

5. Accessibility: High ceilings, intricate moldings, and difficult-to-reach areas may require specialized equipment or techniques, influencing the price.

Average Cost Estimates

• Per Square Foot: In NYC, professional painters charge between $5.25 and $10.62 per square foot.

• Per Room: A standard 10x12 room may cost between $300 and $800, depending on the factors mentioned above.

• Entire Apartment:

  • Studio: Approximately $1,000 to $2,500.

  • One-Bedroom: Around $1,500 to $3,000.

  • Two-Bedroom: Between $3,000 and $7,000.

Breakdown of Costs

1. Paint and Materials:

   • Paint: A gallon of interior latex paint covers about 400 square feet. Prices range from $30 for commercial-grade to over $100 for high-end brands.

   • Primer: Necessary for new drywall or drastic color changes, costing between $30 and $50 per gallon.

   • Supplies: Brushes, rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths, and other materials can add $50 to $150 to the total cost.

2. Labor:

   • Hourly Rates: Professional painters in NYC typically charge around $50 per hour.

   • Per Day: Some painters may charge a daily rate, averaging $400 per day.

   • Per Square Foot: Rates range from $5.25 to $10.62 per square foot, depending on the project's complexity.

Additional Considerations

• Ceilings and Trim: Painting ceilings and trim can add $500 to $1,000 to the total cost, depending on the area's size and detail.

• Specialty Finishes: Custom murals, decorative finishes, or textured paints will increase costs due to additional labor and materials.

• Accessibility Challenges: Walk-up buildings, lack of parking, or high-rise apartments may incur additional fees due to the increased effort required to transport materials and equipment.

Cost-Saving Strategies

1. Supply Your Own Paint: Purchasing paint and supplies independently can reduce costs, but ensure compatibility with the painter's preferred materials.

2. DIY Preparation: Handling tasks like moving furniture, cleaning walls, and minor repairs can decrease labor expenses.

3. Off-Peak Scheduling: Booking painting services during less busy times, such as winter months, may lead to discounted rates.

4. Obtain Multiple Quotes: Comparing estimates from several painting companies ensures competitive pricing and helps identify the best value for your budget.

Conclusion

The cost of painting an apartment in NYC varies based on multiple factors, including size, paint quality, labor, and specific project requirements. By understanding these variables and considering cost-saving strategies, you can effectively budget for your painting project. Engaging reputable companies like Manhattan Painters ensures a balance between quality and affordability, resulting in a refreshed and appealing living space.

How Much Does it Cost to Paint an Apartment in NYC? We asked Perplexity.

Painting an apartment in New York City can be a significant investment, with costs varying widely based on several factors. This comprehensive guide will break down the expenses associated with painting an NYC apartment and provide insights into what influences these costs.

Average Costs for Painting an NYC Apartment

The cost to paint an apartment in NYC typically ranges from $2,000 to $8,000, with some projects exceeding this range depending on specific requirements and apartment size. For a more detailed breakdown:

• Small apartments (studios or one-bedrooms around 500 sq ft): $3,000 to $5,000.

• Two-bedroom apartments (500-900 sq ft): $6,000 to $10,000.

• Larger apartments: Costs can escalate significantly based on size and complexity

  Cost Per Square Foot

On average, painters in NYC charge around $5.25 per square foot, though this can vary. Some sources suggest a range of $2 to $6 per square foot for basic painting jobs.

The cost per square foot can differ by borough:

• Manhattan: $6.79 per square foot

• Brooklyn: $5.71 per square foot.

Factors Influencing Painting Costs

Apartment Size and Layout

The size of your apartment is a primary factor in determining the cost. Larger spaces require more paint, time, and labor. Additionally, apartments with complex layouts, high ceilings, or multiple rooms can increase the overall cost.

Paint Quality and Quantity

Paint costs can range from $30 to $100 per gallon, depending on the brand and quality. High-end paints like Benjamin Moore Regal Select or Farrow & Ball will increase material costs but may provide better coverage and durability.

Labor Costs

Labor is a significant portion of the total cost. Painters in NYC typically charge:

• $20 to $50 per hour for basic painting

• Up to $150 per hour for specialized work.

• $400 per day for some contractors.

Surface Preparation

The condition of your walls can significantly impact the cost. If walls require extensive cleaning, repairs, or priming, this can add $50 to $150 or more to the project cost.

Additional Services

• Ceiling painting: $100 - $300 extra

• Trim and baseboards: $150 - $300 extra

• Wall repairs: $50 - $150 extra

Cost Breakdown for Specific Room Types

Bedrooms

• Small bedroom (10'x12'): $300 - $1,200

• Large bedroom (15'x20'): $600 - $2,400

Living Rooms

• Living room (20'x20'): $800 - $3,200

Real-World Examples

1. A 700 sq ft one-bedroom apartment was painted for $2,500, including priming and using three types of Benjamin Moore paints.

2. A survey of NYC painting companies showed quotes ranging from $2,650 to $4,928 for a one-bedroom apartment.

3. For a 2,000 sq ft apartment with 700 sq ft of ceiling, material costs alone can range from $1,180 to $1,880, with total costs (including labor) estimated at $4,680 to $5,380

4. Tips for Managing Painting Costs

1. Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary significantly between contractors, so it's wise to get at least 3-4 estimates.

2. Consider the season: Painting during off-peak times may result in lower prices.

3. Prep work: Doing some of the prep work yourself, like moving furniture or filling small holes, can reduce labor costs.

4. Paint quality: While it might be tempting to choose cheaper paint, higher quality paints often require fewer coats and last longer, potentially saving money in the long run.

5. Negotiate: Some contractors may be willing to adjust their prices, especially for larger projects.

Additional Considerations

High-Rise Challenges

Painting apartments in high-rise buildings can be more complex and expensive due to the need for special equipment like scaffolding, especially for stairwells and tall ceilings

Building Regulations

Some NYC buildings have specific requirements for painters, including insurance and work hour restrictions, which can affect costs.

DIY vs. Professional

While DIY painting can save on labor costs, professional painters often deliver better results and can complete the job more quickly. They also typically have insurance, which can be crucial in case of accidents or damage.

Conclusion

The cost of painting an apartment in NYC varies widely based on factors such as size, paint quality, labor rates, and specific apartment features. While it's possible to find painters charging as little as $2,000 for a small apartment, most New Yorkers should expect to pay between $3,000 and $8,000 for a professional paint job. High-end or larger apartments can easily exceed $10,000.When budgeting for your painting project, consider not just the immediate costs but also the long-term value. Higher quality paints and professional application can result in a finish that lasts longer and looks better, potentially saving money on future touch-ups or repainting.Remember to thoroughly research potential painters, check reviews, and ensure they are properly licensed and insured. By carefully considering all factors and obtaining multiple quotes, you can find a balance between cost and quality that suits your needs and budget for your NYC apartment painting project.