Painting a kitchen is a great way to give the kitchen a new and refreshing look. Whether you are painting a new kitchen or changing the color of your kitchen, it is important to calculate the budget before starting the project.
This guide will help you calculate the average cost to paint a kitchen. We’ll also see the cost of painting kitchen cabinets. It is important to identify multiple paints and their costs to choose the best for you. Hire some experts and start your home improvement project now!
Average Cost to Paint a Kitchen
The average cost to paint a kitchen can be between $2 to $6 per square foot. The average kitchen size is 150 to 200 sq.ft., but some luxury kitchens may be as large as 400 sq ft. Painting a 200 sq ft kitchen will take up to $400 to $1,200. This cost includes both the material and labor costs. However, this is just a rough estimate. The total cost would depend on the type of paint and local labor rates.
You can also do DIY painting of your kitchen yourself. It will cost around $1 to $4 if you have the necessary tools. If you do not have tools, you have to buy them, which will increase the total cost.
See the table below to understand the cost of painting multiple types of kitchens. This will help you make your budget accordingly.
Size |
Average Cost |
| 8’ x 8’ (64 sq.ft.) | $220 – $384 |
| 8’ x 10’ (80 sq.ft.) | $250 – $480 |
| 9’ x 9’ (81 sq.ft.) | $300 – $486 |
| 10’ x 10’ (100 sq.ft.) | $325 – $600 |
| 10’ x 12’ (120 sq.ft.) | $350 – $720 |
| 10’ x 20’ (200 sq.ft. | $550 – $1,200 |
| 12’ x 12’ (144 sq.ft.) | $475 – $864 |
| 20’ x 20’ (400 sq.ft.) | $1,100 – $2,400 |
Cost Breakdown
See the costs of different factors included in painting a kitchen:
Cost Factor |
Average Cost Per Sq Ft |
| Cabinets | $0.50 – $12 |
| Island | $3 – $6 |
| Backsplash | $3 – $13 |
| Countertops | $7 – $15 |
| Appliances | $50 – $450/each |
| Sink | $225 – $500/each |
| Doors | $25 – $200/unit |
| Windows | $35 – $50/unit |
Types of Paints
Multiple types of paints are used in painting kitchen walls and features. Some of them are the following:
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that works well for house exteriors. It’s popular because it dries quickly and holds color for a long time. You can use it on surfaces like wood, brick, or siding. Acrylic paint is resistant to weather, fading, and cracking. It’s also easy to clean with soap and water. This type of paint is eco-friendly and safe for the environment.
Mineral-Based Paint
Mineral-based paint is made from natural materials like lime or clay. It’s perfect for painting stone or wood features. This paint allows walls to breathe, which helps reduce moisture buildup. It’s very durable and can last many years without fading. Mineral-based paint is also eco-friendly and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
Alkyd (Oil-Based) Paint
Alkyd paint is an oil-based option that provides a glossy, durable finish. It’s often used on walls, doors, window frames, and trim because it resists wear and tear. Alkyd paint takes longer to dry and requires paint thinner for cleaning. It offers strong protection against the elements and is highly durable.
Enamel Paint
Enamel paint creates a hard, glossy finish that is perfect for surfaces that need extra protection, like doors and metal railings. It’s resistant to scratches that make it suitable for cabinets and countertops. You can find both oil-based and water-based enamel paints.
Types |
Price per gallon |
| Acrylic paint | $25 – $70 |
| Mineral-based paint | $100 – $150 |
| Alkyd (oil-based) | $20-$50 |
| Enamel | $25-$60 |
Labor Cost
In various regions of the US, contractors charge between $25 and $100 per hour for kitchen painting. It includes the painting of the whole kitchen, including walls and all features. The laborers will prep the kitchen for painting, remove unnecessary features, paint the area, and then clean the waste.
However, this is just a general rate. This rate may vary with your local labor rates. So, it is important to talk to multiple contractors in your area to make an effective budget.
DIY Paint Kitchen Yourself
You can also do DIY painting of your kitchen yourself. It will remove the labor cost from your budget, making it cost around $1 to $4. But if you do not have tools to paint, you first have to buy the tools. This will increase the total cost.
Tools that you’ll need to paint the kitchen and features:
Tools |
Average Cost |
| Brushes | $5-$10 |
| Paint Roller | $5-$10 |
| Roller Cover | $3-$5 |
| Paint Tray | $2-$5 |
| Painter’s Tape | $5-$10 |
| Drop Cloths | $10-$20 |
| Putty Knife | $5-$10 |
| Sandpaper | $5-$10 |
| Sanding Sponge | $5-$10 |
| Paint Stripper (if needed) | $10-$20 |
Additional Factors
There can be also some additional factors that can affect the cost to paint a kitchen, whether you’re hiring the experts or doing it yourself. It may include:
- The type of paint you choose
- Color of the paints
- Layout of the kitchen
- The type of cabinets
- Number of doors or windows
- Number of features such as countertops, hoods, cabinets
- Condition of the kitchen
- Size of the kitchen
Conclusion
The average cost to paint a kitchen can be between $2 to $6 per square foot. Painting a 200 sq ft kitchen will take up to $400 to $1,200. It includes both the material and labor costs. It is important to understand multiple types of paints and their costs to choose the best for you.
It is always recommended to get quotes from multiple contractors before starting your project. Identify local labor rates. The experts will help you make an effective budget according to your kitchen condition and requirements.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best paint to use on kitchen cabinets?
The best paint for kitchen cabinets is durable, washable, and often semi-gloss or satin for easy cleaning. Acrylic or enamel paints work well.
Q2. How much to paint a kitchen walls and ceiling?
Painting kitchen walls and ceiling usually cost between $200 to $600, depending on kitchen size and paint quality.
Q3. How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?
Painting kitchen cabinets typically costs $300 to $1,000, depending on cabinet size and whether you hire a pro or DIY.
Q4. Do you need special paint for the kitchen?
Yes, kitchens need moisture- and stain-resistant paint, like semi-gloss or satin, to withstand humidity and frequent cleaning.
