The cost to paint a house in Seattle, Washington in 2026 depends on more than just square footage. Seattle’s climate — frequent rain, high humidity, overcast conditions, and limited dry seasons — directly impacts labor time, surface preparation, and paint performance. Home size, surface condition, interior versus exterior scope, and paint brand selection all influence final pricing. This guide explains average house painting costs in the Seattle metro area and what homeowners should expect when planning a professional painting project.
Quick Answer:
In 2026, the cost to paint a house in Seattle typically ranges from $4,800 to $10,000 for exterior painting and $3,800 to $8,500 for interior painting. Final costs depend on home size, prep work, paint quality, accessibility, and whether premium brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore are used.
In 2026, the cost to paint a house in Seattle typically ranges from $4,800 to $10,000 for exterior painting and $3,800 to $8,500 for interior painting. Final costs depend on home size, prep work, paint quality, accessibility, and whether premium brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore are used.
Average House Painting Costs in Seattle (2026)
Seattle painting costs are slightly higher than national averages due to labor rates and weather-related scheduling challenges.
Typical cost ranges:
Multi-story homes, older exteriors, and extensive prep requirements push pricing toward the higher end.
Typical cost ranges:
- Exterior house painting: $4,800 – $10,000
- Interior house painting: $3,800 – $8,500
- Per square foot (interior): $3.00 – $5.75
- Per square foot (exterior): $3.75 – $7.00
Multi-story homes, older exteriors, and extensive prep requirements push pricing toward the higher end.
Factors That Affect Painting Costs in Seattle
Several key factors influence house painting costs in the Seattle metro area:
Because Seattle homes experience prolonged moisture exposure, painters often perform additional priming, caulking, and mildew treatment.
- Home size, layout, and number of stories
- Condition of siding, trim, and interior walls
- Surface preparation and moisture remediation
- Paint brand and product line
- Access limitations and safety requirements
- Detail work such as trim, doors, and cabinets
Because Seattle homes experience prolonged moisture exposure, painters often perform additional priming, caulking, and mildew treatment.
Interior vs Exterior Painting Costs
Interior painting in Seattle is generally less expensive and easier to schedule year-round. Costs increase with high ceilings, stairwells, built-ins, and multiple color transitions.
Exterior painting costs more because:
Exterior painting costs more because:
- Projects must align with dry weather windows
- Surfaces require deeper cleaning and drying
- Moisture-resistant primers are necessary
- Extended drying times increase labor hours
How Paint Brands Impact Cost and Durability
Professional painters in Seattle commonly use Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore due to their proven performance in wet climates.
While premium paints have a higher upfront cost, they typically last longer in Seattle’s climate, reducing repaint frequency over time.
- Sherwin-Williams Emerald provides strong adhesion and moisture resistance
- Benjamin Moore Aura delivers excellent color retention and mildew resistance
While premium paints have a higher upfront cost, they typically last longer in Seattle’s climate, reducing repaint frequency over time.
Is Professional House Painting Worth the Cost in Seattle?
Hiring a professional painting contractor in Seattle offers:
DIY painting in Seattle often fails prematurely without professional prep and product selection.
- Proper surface preparation for moisture control
- Climate-appropriate paint systems
- Efficient project timelines
- Workmanship warranties
- Reduced risk of peeling, blistering, or mold growth
DIY painting in Seattle often fails prematurely without professional prep and product selection.
How to Get an Accurate Painting Estimate in Seattle
For the most accurate pricing, homeowners should schedule an in-person evaluation. Professional estimates consider:
Online calculators provide helpful estimates, but on-site inspections produce the most reliable pricing.
- Total square footage
- Surface condition
- Paint and primer systems
- Seasonal scheduling
- Warranty coverage
Online calculators provide helpful estimates, but on-site inspections produce the most reliable pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to paint a 2,000 sq ft house in Seattle in 2026?
Painting a 2,000 sq ft house in Seattle typically costs $5,800 to $9,200 for exterior painting and $4,200 to $7,000 for interior painting, depending on prep work, paint quality, and home layout.
Painting a 2,000 sq ft house in Seattle typically costs $5,800 to $9,200 for exterior painting and $4,200 to $7,000 for interior painting, depending on prep work, paint quality, and home layout.
Why is house painting more expensive in Seattle?
Seattle’s frequent rain, high humidity, limited dry weather windows, and higher labor costs increase preparation time and overall project pricing.
Seattle’s frequent rain, high humidity, limited dry weather windows, and higher labor costs increase preparation time and overall project pricing.
Does premium paint last longer in Seattle’s climate?
Yes. Premium paints such as Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Aura are designed to resist moisture, mildew, and fading, making them well-suited for Seattle’s wet climate.
Yes. Premium paints such as Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Aura are designed to resist moisture, mildew, and fading, making them well-suited for Seattle’s wet climate.
Planning a House Painting Project in Seattle?
Work with experienced local professionals who understand Seattle’s climate and use premium Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore paint systems for long-lasting results.