What’s the Average Cost to Paint a 2-Story House Exterior?
Painting a two-story home exterior can feel like a big project. It’s not just about picking your favorite color—it’s also about budgeting, safety, and knowing what to expect. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals, understanding the average cost to paint a 2-story house exterior helps avoid surprises.
This blog will break down the different elements that influence exterior painting costs and help you better understand what your exterior house painting estimate should include. Let’s dive in.
How Much Does It Cost to Paint the Exterior of a Two-Story House?
In general, the cost to paint the exterior of a two-story house ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. This number depends on several key factors, including the size of the home, the condition of the surfaces, labor rates in your area, and the type of paint used. Here’s a quick breakdown of what goes into the cost:
Size of your home
Type of exterior material
Prep work needed
Paint quality
Number of stories and accessibility
Labor costs
Now let’s look at these more closely.
1. Square Footage: The Biggest Cost Factor
Most contractors calculate the exterior house painting estimate based on the square footage of the paintable area. A two-story house typically has more surface area than a single-story home.
On average:
1,500 sq ft home: $3,000 - $5,000
2,000 sq ft home: $3,500 - $6,000
2,500+ sq ft home: $4,500 - $7,500+
Keep in mind, these numbers include basic prep, labor, and two coats of quality paint.
To get an accurate quote, subtract the square footage of windows, doors, and other non-painted areas. Many professionals do this for you during a home visit.
2. Surface Material and Its Effect on Price
Different surfaces require different approaches and materials. Here are common siding types and their average painting cost per square foot:
Material Cost per Sq Ft
Wood $1.50 - $3.00
Vinyl $1.25 - $2.50
Brick $1.50 - $4.50
Stucco $1.80 - $3.60
Fiber Cement $1.50 - $3.50
Brick and stucco often require more paint and may need special primers, which affects the final cost.
3. Prep Work and Repairs
Before painting starts, prep work is a must. This can include:
Power washing
Scraping old paint
Repairing cracks or siding
Caulking gaps
If your home hasn’t been painted in years or shows visible damage, expect to increase your exterior house painting estimate by $500 - $2,000 depending on the extent of work needed.
4. Accessibility and Number of Stories
The taller the house, the more difficult and time-consuming it is to paint. Two-story homes often require ladders, scaffolding, or safety harnesses, all of which increase labor costs.
Accessibility challenges, such as tight spaces, rooflines, or surrounding trees, can also bump up the cost. In some cases, professionals charge a premium for difficult-to-reach areas.
5. Type and Quality of Paint
Exterior paint costs between $20 to $70 per gallon, depending on brand and finish. High-quality paint lasts longer, covers better, and handles the elements more effectively. Here’s what you can expect:
Paint Type Cost per Gallon
Latex (water-based) $20 - $50
Oil-based $30 - $70
Acrylic latex $25 - $60
Higher-end paints contain more pigment and binder, leading to fewer coats and longer-lasting results. A typical two-story house may require 15-25 gallons of paint, depending on surface type, condition, and color change.
Don’t forget the primer. If your home needs a base coat (especially on raw surfaces), factor in $20-$60 per gallon of primer.
6. Labor Costs
In many cases, labor makes up 60% to 70% of your total exterior house painting estimate. Depending on your location, labor costs range between $25 to $60 per hour or $1.00 to $3.00 per square foot.
Hiring professionals saves you time, ensures safety, and usually leads to better finishes. But DIY is also an option if you have experience and the right tools.
7. Additional Features That Affect Pricing
Your home may include more than just flat walls. Additional items that can affect the total cost include:
Trim and fascia boards: $1 - $3 per linear foot
Gutters and downspouts: $0.50 - $2.50 per linear foot
Shutters: $50 - $100 each
Porches, railings, and columns: Cost varies based on material and design
Make sure your contractor includes these in the quote or discusses them separately.
Sample Price Breakdown for a 2,000 Sq Ft Home
Let’s take a look at a typical project to help illustrate how the cost adds up.
Item Estimated Cost
Power washing $200 - $400
Surface prep/repairs $500 - $1,200
Paint and primer $600 - $1,200
Labor $2,000 - $3,500
Trim, gutters, extras $400 - $800
Total Estimate: $3,700 - $7,100
Your actual cost can go higher or lower based on the condition of your house and other factors mentioned earlier.
Tips to Save Money on Your Exterior House Painting Project
Get Multiple Quotes Always get at least three exterior house painting estimates from local pros. Compare what’s included and make sure prep, materials, and clean-up are detailed.
Do Some Prep Work Yourself You can save money by handling some prep tasks like cleaning the siding or trimming shrubs. Just make sure the area is safe and clear for painters.
Schedule During Off-Peak Seasons Many painters offer lower rates in the cooler months. Painting in spring or early fall is also ideal in many areas.
Buy Paint on Sale Look out for sales at your local hardware or paint store. Buying quality paint at a discount can save a lot.
Maintain Your Painted Surfaces Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your paint job, helping you delay the next project and saving you money long-term.
How Often Should You Repaint a Two-Story House?
Getting an exterior house painting estimate is a smart first step if you’re thinking about refreshing your two-story home. While the average cost can vary based on several things, knowing the key factors helps you plan ahead.
The size of your home, its surface material, prep work needs, and paint quality all play a part in what you’ll pay. Whether you hire professionals or go the DIY route, the goal is the same: a fresh, durable look that protects your home from the elements.
Let’s Bring Your Home’s Exterior Back to Life
Getting an exterior house painting estimate is a smart first step if you’re thinking about refreshing your two-story home. While the average cost can vary based on several things, knowing the key factors helps you plan ahead.
The size of your home, its surface material, prep work needs, and paint quality all play a part in what you’ll pay. Whether you hire professionals or go the DIY route, the goal is the same: a fresh, durable look that protects your home from the elements.
If you’re in the local area and thinking of giving your home a new coat of paint, get in touch with Stephen Radl Painting for a detailed quote.
