Understanding how painters price their services can help you budget more effectively for your next renovation or decorating project. This guide breaks down costs per hour, per day, per room, and per square foot, as well as comparing interior and exterior costs. We’ll also cover a basic pricing guide for painters and discuss the potential cost variations of each major city in Australia.
Cost Per Hour
The Basis of Hourly Rates
The cost per hour for a painter can vary based on their experience, skill level, and location. As a ballpark figure, you can expect to pay a painter in Australia anywhere from AUD $35 to AUD $50 per hour for standard residential work. This rate typically includes labour and equipment, but not the cost of paint and materials.
Cost Per Day
Why Choose a Day Rate
Some painters prefer to quote on a daily rate, particularly for larger jobs that will take more than a few hours to complete. On average, a painter might charge between AUD $250 to $400 per day. This can be a cost-effective option if you have a large space to paint and the job can be completed in a day or two.
Cost Per Room
Estimating Room Costs
The cost for painters to paint a room can depend on the room’s size, the complexity of the job, and the type of paint used. On average, painting a standard bedroom could cost between AUD $400 and $800, not including the cost of the paint itself. More complex rooms, such as kitchens or bathrooms, might cost more due to the intricacy of the work.
Cost Per Square Foot
Calculating Costs by Area
Some painters charge per square foot, which can make it easier to compare costs. On average, a painter might charge between AUD $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, not including the cost of paint and materials. This means painting a 500-square-foot room could cost between AUD $750 and $1,750.
Interior and Exterior Costs
Differences in Interior and Exterior Painting
Interior and exterior painting jobs typically have different costs due to the varying complexities and materials involved. Interior painting usually ranges from AUD $10 to $30 per square metre, depending on the surface’s condition and paint type.
Exterior painting can range from AUD $15 to $40 per square metre due to the added complexities of weather conditions, surface preparation, and often more expensive weather-resistant paint.
City-Wise Painter Costs in Australia
Australia is a large and diverse country, and the cost of hiring a painter can significantly vary across its major cities. Below is a general guide to the prices you might encounter in some of Australia’s major cities. Keep in mind, these are average prices and can change based on the specifics of each painting project.
Painter Costs in Sydney
Sydney, as one of the country’s most populous and bustling cities, tends to have higher rates. A professional painter in Sydney might charge between AUD $40 and $60 per hour for labour. The cost per square metre can range between AUD $15 to $45, depending on whether it’s an interior or exterior job.
Painter Costs in Melbourne
Melbourne, known for its vibrant arts scene, also commands higher prices for professional painters. You can expect to pay around AUD $35 to $55 per hour or AUD $14 to $40 per square metre.
Painter Costs in Brisbane
Brisbane’s competitive market often means slightly lower prices for painters. The hourly rate in Brisbane generally falls between AUD $30 and $45, with the per square metre rate around AUD $12 to $35.
Painter Costs in Adelaide
Adelaide, while smaller than the other main cities, still demands a professional painter’s premium. The hourly rates here typically range between AUD $30 and $40, with the square metre rates averaging AUD $10 to $30.
Painter Costs in Perth
Perth’s thriving housing market means a steady demand for painters. The hourly rate in this city ranges from AUD $30 to $45, and the per square metre rate is approximately AUD $12 to $35.
Remember, these prices are averages and can vary based on the complexity of the job, the materials used, and the specific expertise of the painter. It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes before settling on a painter, no matter the city.
If you are a painter in Australia looking for assistance with pricing your projects and getting quotes out to clients faster, contact us today. Our fast and professional QS team are here to help.
