When Austin homeowners start thinking about painting the outside of their house, the first question is always the same: “How much is this going to cost me?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Just like no two houses in Austin are exactly alike, no two paint jobs come with the same price tag. The cost can swing depending on your home’s size, its siding, and even the time of year you decide to take the plunge.
The good news? With the right info, you can get a ballpark idea of what to expect before you even request a quote. This guide will walk you through the biggest cost factors and help you figure out where your money goes in an exterior paint project.
What Affects the Cost of Exterior Painting in Austin?
If you’ve ever asked a painter, “What’s the going rate?” and gotten the answer “it depends,” that’s because it really does. Here’s what makes the biggest difference in Austin:
- Home size and stories: A 1,500-square-foot bungalow in Northwest Hills will naturally cost less to paint a two-story estate in Westlake Hills. More square footage means more labor, more ladders, and more gallons of paint.
- Siding material: Stucco, cedar, fiber cement, and brick all require different prep and paints. Cedar siding, for example, often needs extra priming and sealing to hold up against Austin’s humidity.
- Repairs and prep work: Peeling paint, cracked caulk, or wood rot will add to the bill. Skipping prep might save a few bucks up front, but it’ll cut years off the life of the paint job.
- Seasonal demand: Summer is high season for painters, which can drive costs up. If you’re flexible, late fall or early spring often comes with better pricing.
- Paint quality: Cheaper paints fade fast under the Texas sun. Investing in UV- and heat-resistant paint might cost more upfront but saves you from repainting sooner.
Bottom line: an exterior paint job is part labor, part materials, and part “Mother Nature tax” when you live in Central Texas.
Learn More About Painting Costs in Austin
In Central Texas, exterior painting typically runs $5–$9 per square foot. That means a small one-story bungalow might cost around $7,500, while a large two-story estate can run closer to $20,000.
This guide explains what drives those prices, shows average ranges by home size, and helps you understand what you’re paying for when hiring professional exterior painters in Austin.
If you want to go deeper, we’ve broken out full guides on some of the most common cost questions Austin homeowners ask:
- How Much Does Exterior Painting Cost in Austin?
- What’s the Hourly Rate for Exterior Painters in Austin?
- Cheapest Time of Year to Hire Exterior Painters in Austin
- Does Exterior Painting Increase Property Value in Austin?
These articles dive into real numbers, averages, and even local examples to help you budget with confidence.
Get a Free Quote for Your Home
Online calculators and ballpark estimates are helpful, but nothing beats a custom quote for your house. If you’re ready to stop guessing, our team at TruCoat Painters provides free, no-obligation estimates for homeowners across Austin. We’ll factor in your home’s size, materials, and current condition to give you an honest, accurate price—no surprises later.
Because at the end of the day, knowing the cost is the first step to finally getting your home looking brand new again.