Is it cheaper to paint yourself or hire a painter?
Compare material costs, your time, and finish quality.
Quick answer: DIY painting is cheapest if you have time and prep skills; pros cost more but deliver faster, cleaner results.
DIY interior painting usually costs $1-2 per square foot when you already own rollers, trays, and ladders. Pros charge $3-6 per square foot because they include surface prep, masking, minor patching, and speed—two painters can finish a standard room in a day.
Price both options: add paint, primer, tape, plastic, sandpaper, and brush replacements to your DIY budget. Assign an hourly rate to your time and factor cleanup. If the total is within 20% of a professional quote, hiring may be worth it for speed and finish quality.
DIY makes sense when
- You can accept minor roller marks or learn cutting in.
- Rooms are empty and surfaces are in good shape.
- You have two solid days per room for prep and coats.
Hire a painter when
- Ceilings are high or stairwells are hard to reach.
- There is smoke, water, or wallpaper damage to fix.
- You need color changes on a tight schedule.
Whichever route you pick, spend on quality paint and prep. Good primer and sanding save money by avoiding extra coats.