How Much Does Exterior House Painting Cost in San Francisco, CA?
San Francisco pricing is 55% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and San Francisco's tech-finance-tourism economy.See our methodology
Exterior House Painting Pricing in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a high-cost market where exterior house painting runs about 55% above the national average. The city's tech-finance-tourism economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 870K, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in exterior house painting costs here. Fog and moisture create unique challenges for exterior maintenance; earthquake safety adds to all construction costs.
Market-specific factors matter in San Francisco: among the highest labor rates in the US; strict permit and inspection process adds weeks and cost to projects; rent costs for contractors get passed to consumers.
San Francisco has very strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your exterior house painting project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
San Francisco vs National Average
What Affects Exterior House Painting Cost in San Francisco?
House Size
1,500 sq ft: $2,500-$4,500. 2,500 sq ft: $4,000-$7,000. 3,500+ sq ft: $6,000-$10,000
Stories
Each additional story adds 20-40% due to ladder/scaffold needs
Surface Condition
Extensive scraping and priming can add $1,000-$3,000
San Francisco Market Conditions
among the highest labor rates in the US; strict permit and inspection process adds weeks and cost to projects; rent costs for contractors get passed to consumers
Local Climate Impact
fog and moisture create unique challenges for exterior maintenance; earthquake safety adds to all construction costs
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Tips to Save on Exterior House Painting in San Francisco
- 1.Schedule in late summer or early fall for best conditions
- 2.Power wash yourself to reduce prep costs
- 3.Use quality paint — it lasts longer and saves money long-term
- 4.Get quotes from at least 3 painters
📈 Exterior House Painting in San Francisco Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $5,925 | — |
| 2021 | $6,174 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $6,575 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $6,759 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $6,975 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for Exterior House Painting in San Francisco
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does exterior paint last?
Quality exterior paint lasts 7-10 years on wood, 10-15 years on stucco, and 15+ years on brick.
What's the best time to paint a house exterior?
Late spring through early fall, when temperatures are consistently between 50-85°F with low humidity.
Why does exterior house painting cost different in San Francisco than other cities?
San Francisco's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the tech-finance-tourism economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and very-strict permitting requirements. The expensive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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