How Much Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in California?
California pricing is above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal Pricing in California
In California, the average cost for popcorn ceiling removal is $2,430 per room, which is 35% higher than the national average of $1,800. Most California residents pay between $1,350 and $4,050.
California has a higher cost of living than most states, which translates to higher labor rates and material costs. Urban areas within California may be even higher.
Popcorn ceiling removal scrapes off the textured acoustic ceiling finish popular in homes built from the 1950s-1980s. The ceiling is then smoothed, primed, and painted for a modern, clean look that dramatically updates a room's appearance.
California vs National Average
What Affects Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in California?
Room Size
Small room (100 sq ft): $600-$1,200. Average room (200 sq ft): $1,000-$2,000. Large room (400 sq ft): $1,800-$3,500
Asbestos
If asbestos is present, professional abatement adds $3-$7/sq ft ($1,500-$5,000 per room)
Per Sq Ft
Removal + smooth + paint: $2-$5/sq ft. Removal only: $1-$3/sq ft
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💡 Tips to Save on Popcorn Ceiling Removal in California
- 1.Test for asbestos first ($25-$50 DIY kit or $200-$400 professional). Homes built after 1980 rarely contain asbestos
- 2.Unpainted popcorn ceiling is much easier to remove than painted — it scrapes off with water
- 3.DIY removal is very doable for non-asbestos ceilings — rent a ceiling scraper ($20/day) and use plastic sheeting for dust
- 4.Covering with thin drywall ($2-$4/sq ft) is an alternative that avoids messy scraping
📈 Popcorn Ceiling Removal in California Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $2,064 | — |
| 2021 | $2,151 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $2,291 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $2,355 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $2,430 | +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 Popcorn Ceiling Removal in California
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I remove popcorn ceiling?
Popcorn ceilings are universally considered dated, collect dust and allergens, are hard to clean, and make rooms feel darker. Removal modernizes the look and can increase home value by $2,000-$5,000 per room in buyer perception.
Is popcorn ceiling dangerous?
Only if it contains asbestos, which was used in some textured ceilings installed before 1980. Disturbing asbestos ceiling releases dangerous fibers. Always test before removal. Non-asbestos popcorn ceiling is just a cosmetic issue, not a health hazard.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in Other States
Related Cost Guides for California
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