How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House in Ontario? (2025 Guide)
Introduction
One of the most common homeowner questions is: “How much does it cost to paint my house?” Painting is one of the fastest and most effective ways to improve the look and feel of your home. Whether you’re preparing to sell, upgrading your curb appeal, or simply refreshing your living space, the cost of painting is a major factor in your decision.
In Ontario, the price of painting a house can vary widely depending on the size of your home, the amount of prep work required, the quality of paint you choose, and whether you’re tackling the interior, exterior, or both. In this guide, we’ll break down all the factors that impact cost, average price ranges in 2025, and practical tips for saving money without sacrificing quality.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect when requesting quotes from painting contractors — and how to make sure you get the best value for your investment.
Factors That Impact the Cost of Painting in Ontario
The cost of painting isn’t just about buying a can of paint. A variety of factors influence the final price, and understanding these will help you compare quotes more effectively.
1. Square Footage and Room Size
The most obvious factor is the size of the space being painted. Larger homes or rooms naturally require more paint and more labour.
Interior: Most professional painters in Ontario charge per square foot, usually between $2.50 – $4.50 per sq. ft. This includes walls, ceiling height, and sometimes baseboards depending on the agreement.
Exterior: Pricing is typically based on the square footage of the home’s siding surface rather than just the floor plan. A two-story home will cost more than a bungalow of the same square footage.
Example:
A 1,500 sq. ft. bungalow might cost $3,750 – $6,750 for a full interior repaint.
A 2,500 sq. ft. two-story home could range from $6,250 – $11,250.
2. Surface Preparation
Prep work can significantly affect the cost. High-quality prep ensures the paint adheres properly and lasts longer, but it takes time and labour.
Drywall repair – Patching nail holes, fixing dents, or repairing water damage.
Sanding – Essential for smooth finishes, especially on trim and doors.
Caulking and sealing – Prevents cracks around windows, baseboards, and trim.
Power washing (exterior) – Removes dirt and mildew before applying paint.
Impact on cost: Expect an additional $1.00 – $2.00 per sq. ft. if extensive prep is needed.
3. Type and Quality of Paint
Not all paint is created equal. Higher-quality paints cost more upfront but often save money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring fewer coats.
Economy Paint: $25 – $40 per gallon.
Mid-Grade Paint: $50 – $70 per gallon.
Premium Paint (e.g., Benjamin Moore Aura, Sherwin-Williams Emerald): $80 – $120 per gallon.
A gallon covers about 350–400 sq. ft., but surfaces with heavy texture or dark-to-light colour changes may require multiple coats.
Pro tip: Most contractors recommend mid- to premium-grade paints for durability, washability, and better coverage.
4. Interior vs. Exterior Painting
The scope of work changes dramatically between interior and exterior painting.
Interior Painting: Requires more detailed prep (drywall patching, taping, sanding) and precise finishes.
Exterior Painting: Requires ladders, scaffolding, and weather-resistant paints. Extra time is needed for scraping, priming, and dealing with surfaces like brick, stucco, aluminum, or wood siding.
Cost impact: Exterior projects often cost more per square foot due to complexity and equipment needs.
5. Number of Colours and Finishes
Every colour change adds complexity. If you’re painting your whole home one shade, it will be cheaper than having multiple accent walls and trim colours.
Flat or matte finishes: Cheapest, but not very washable.
Eggshell or satin finishes: Popular for walls — balance of durability and price.
Semi-gloss or high-gloss: Common for trim, doors, and cabinets — more expensive and harder to apply.
Average Ontario Painting Costs (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of typical painting costs across Ontario in 2025:
Interior Painting Costs
Walls: $2.50 – $4.50 per sq. ft.
Ceilings: $1.00 – $2.50 per sq. ft.
Trim & Baseboards: $1.50 – $3.50 per linear ft.
Doors: $80 – $150 per door.
Full Interior Repaint: $4,000 – $12,000+ depending on home size and prep.
Exterior Painting Costs
Small Bungalow: $2,500 – $4,500.
Mid-Sized Two-Story: $4,500 – $7,500.
Large Custom Home: $7,500 – $15,000+.
These prices assume typical prep work and mid-grade paint. Homes with multiple storeys, detailed trim, or tricky access points will fall at the higher end.
Additional Cost Considerations
Furniture Moving: Some painters include this, others charge extra.
Wallpaper Removal: $1.50 – $3.00 per sq. ft. depending on difficulty.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal: $3.00 – $6.00 per sq. ft.
Cabinet Painting: $80 – $120 per door/drawer.
How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
Painting can feel like a big investment, but there are smart ways to cut costs while still ensuring professional results.
1. Combine Multiple Rooms or Projects
Painters often charge less per room when tackling multiple spaces in one job. For example, painting your kitchen, living room, and hallway together will be more cost-effective than booking them separately.
2. Choose Durable Mid-Grade Paints
While premium paints are excellent, many mid-grade options provide great durability at a lower cost. Brands like Sherwin-Williams Duration or Benjamin Moore Regal Select balance quality with price.
3. Do Small Prep Work Yourself
Homeowners can save by handling simple prep tasks like:
Moving furniture.
Removing outlet covers and curtain rods.
Light sanding or patching small nail holes.
Leave major drywall repair or exterior scraping to professionals.
4. Paint During Off-Season
Summer is peak painting season in Ontario. Booking in early spring, late fall, or even winter for interiors may get you better pricing.
5. Ask About Warranty and Longevity
Sometimes the cheapest quote costs more long-term. A paint job that lasts 10 years is more cost-effective than one that peels after 3.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Painter in Ontario
Many homeowners consider painting themselves to save money. While DIY can work for small rooms, here’s why professionals are worth the investment:
DIY Costs:
Paint, supplies, brushes, rollers, ladders, drop cloths: $300 – $800.
Time commitment: 20–60+ hours depending on size.
Risk of uneven coats, drips, or missed prep work.
Professional Costs:
Higher upfront cost, but includes labour, materials, insurance, and expertise.
Professional results with proper prep.
Faster completion (a crew can finish in days instead of weeks).
If you value your time, want long-lasting results, and don’t enjoy balancing on ladders, a professional painter is the smarter choice.
Why Ontario Homeowners Should Invest in Professional Painting
Boosts Home Value: Fresh paint can increase resale value by up to 5%.
Protects Your Home: Exterior paint protects against rot, mildew, and weather damage.
Improves Comfort: Clean, modern colours make living spaces more enjoyable.
Conclusion
So, how much does it cost to paint a house in Ontario?
Interior: $2.50 – $4.50 per sq. ft. (average $4,000 – $12,000 for a full home).
Exterior: $2,500 – $15,000+ depending on size and condition.
The exact cost depends on your home’s square footage, prep needs, paint quality, and whether you hire professionals or DIY. While painting is a significant investment, it pays off in both appearance and protection of your biggest asset: your home.
👉 Ready to transform your home with a professional paint job? Contact Painters Near Me for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your Ontario home. Our experienced team delivers high-quality, lasting results that make your home look its best year-round.