If you’re thinking of freshening up your home or preparing it for sale, painting can make a huge difference. However, before you grab that paintbrush, one of the most important questions you’ll need to answer is: How much does it cost to paint a house in Melbourne in 2025?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of house painting in Melbourne, provide you with an overview of potential costs for different types of homes, and offer tips on how to get the best deal while ensuring a quality finish. So, let’s dive into the details!
Factors Influencing the Cost of House Painting in Melbourne
1. Size of the House
The size of your house is the primary factor in determining the cost of a painting project. The larger the home, the more paint and time it will take to cover every surface. For example:
- A 2-bedroom apartment or unit may cost between $2,500 and $5,000 to paint.
- A 3-bedroom house could range from $4,000 to $10,000.
- A 4-bedroom house generally falls between $6,000 and $12,000.
For larger homes with many rooms, expect the cost to go up significantly.
2. Interior vs. Exterior Painting
Are you just painting the interior? Or do you want to refresh the exterior as well? Here’s what you can expect for both:
- Interior Painting: Painting the inside of your home generally costs less than exterior painting. However, the overall price will depend on factors like the number of rooms, the ceiling height, and the type of finish you desire.
- Exterior Painting: This is typically more expensive due to the larger area and additional preparation required to handle outdoor elements. A single-storey house may cost between $10,000 and $20,000, while a double-storey house can range from $12,000 to $25,000, depending on its size and condition.
3. Quality of Materials
Not all paint is created equal. If you want your paint job to last, investing in high-quality paint is essential, particularly for exterior jobs where your paint needs to endure the elements. Higher-quality paints may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long term by reducing the need for touch-ups or reapplications. Expect to pay around $50 to $100 per litre for premium exterior paint.
4. Surface Preparation
Good surface preparation is key to a lasting paint job. This includes cleaning, sanding, scraping old paint, priming, and fixing any damages to the walls. Homes that require more extensive preparation will naturally come with a higher cost due to the labor involved.
5. Labor Costs
Labor costs can vary depending on the company and the complexity of the job. In Melbourne, painters typically charge between $35 and $45 per hour. The overall labor cost will depend on how many painters are needed and how long the job takes. If you’re painting a large house or complex surfaces, expect to pay for additional labor time.
6. The Condition of the Property
Homes with peeling paint, damaged surfaces, or severe weathering will require more prep work. The amount of cleaning, sanding, and priming needed will affect the overall price. Additionally, multi-storey homes or those with hard-to-reach areas like high ceilings or steep roofs will be more expensive to paint due to safety concerns and the need for scaffolding or ladders.
Typical Costs for Painting a Home in Melbourne in 2025
To give you a better sense of how much it costs to paint different types of homes in Melbourne, here’s a breakdown of typical costs based on current market trends:
1. Interior Painting
- 2-Bedroom Unit/Apartment: For a small unit, interior painting typically costs between $2,500 and $5,000. This includes painting walls, ceilings, and trim in standard rooms.
- 3-Bedroom House: The cost for painting a standard 3-bedroom house can range between $4,000 and $10,000, depending on the size of the rooms, the height of the ceilings, and the quality of materials used.
- 4-Bedroom House: A larger 4-bedroom home will typically cost between $6,000 and $12,000 to paint. More complex layouts and higher ceilings can push this price up.
2. Exterior Painting
- Single-Storey House: Expect to pay anywhere between $10,000 and $20,000 for exterior painting of a single-storey home, depending on size, surface condition, and materials used.
- Double-Storey House: A larger, two-storey home may cost between $12,000 and $25,000 to paint, with variations based on the complexity of the property and the amount of work involved in preparation and painting.
3. Additional Costs to Consider
- Feature Walls: Adding accent or feature walls typically costs an additional $150 to $500 per wall, depending on the size and preparation needed.
- Trim and Details: Painting trim, doors, windows, and other detailed elements may add an extra $2,000 to $4,000 to your project, depending on the level of detail and amount of work involved.
- Ceiling Painting: Don’t forget about your ceilings! If you’re painting the entire interior, expect to add $500 to $2,000, depending on the size of the area.
4. Eco-Friendly Options
If you’re concerned about environmental impact, opting for eco-friendly paint can increase your costs slightly, but it may be worth it for healthier indoor air quality and peace of mind. Expect to pay about 10-20% more for paints that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or certified as eco-friendly.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on House Painting
Now that you know the cost breakdown, here are some tips to ensure you get the best value for your investment:
1. Get Multiple Quotes
To ensure you’re getting a competitive price, always get quotes from at least three different painting contractors. Compare the breakdown of each quote, paying attention to labor costs, materials, and preparation work involved.
2. Do Some of the Prep Work Yourself
If you’re looking to save some money, consider doing some of the preparation work yourself, such as clearing the room, sanding the walls, or washing exterior surfaces. Just be sure that the prep work is done correctly, as poor preparation can lead to poor results.
3. Plan for Off-Peak Seasons
In Melbourne, the demand for painters can fluctuate based on the season. Summer and early spring are typically busy times for painters, so booking during the off-peak season (autumn or winter) may help you secure a better price and quicker service.
4. Check Reviews and References
Before choosing a painter, check reviews from previous clients or ask for references. A good painter will have a proven track record of quality work and customer satisfaction. Online review platforms like Google or Yelp are good places to start.
5. Consider Long-Term Durability
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that the quality of the paint and the painting job itself will impact how long it lasts. A higher upfront cost for premium paint may be more economical in the long run if it saves you from having to repaint in a few years.
Conclusion
The cost of painting a house in Melbourne in 2025 can vary significantly depending on the size of your home, the scope of the job (interior vs. exterior), and the quality of materials used. By understanding the factors that affect pricing, shopping around for quotes, and considering your long-term goals, you can make an informed decision about painting your home.
Whether you’re simply refreshing a few rooms or giving your entire house a makeover, painting is one of the best ways to increase the aesthetic value of your property. With proper planning and a realistic budget, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come!