How Much Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in Chicago, IL?
Chicago pricing is 15% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, humid-continental climate conditions, and Chicago's finance-manufacturing-logistics economy.See our methodology
Popcorn Ceiling Removal Pricing in Chicago, IL
In Chicago, popcorn ceiling removal costs are 15% above the national average, reflecting the city's finance-manufacturing-logistics-driven economy. The union-heavy labor market means you have decent options when shopping for quotes. Most residents with a population base of 2.7M find the pricing competitive relative to the local cost of living.
Local climate plays a direct role in popcorn ceiling removal costs here. Brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects.
Market-specific factors matter in Chicago: strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks.
Chicago has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your popcorn ceiling removal project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.
Chicago vs National Average
What Affects Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in Chicago?
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
Chicago Market Conditions
strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks
Local Climate Impact
brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects
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Tips to Save on Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Chicago
- 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
- 5.Chicago has a strong union labor market. While rates may be higher, union contractors typically carry better insurance and offer workmanship guarantees.
📈 Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Chicago Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $1,758 | — |
| 2021 | $1,832 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $1,951 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $2,006 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $2,070 | +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 Chicago
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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.
Why does popcorn ceiling removal cost different in Chicago than other cities?
Chicago's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the finance-manufacturing-logistics economy, humid-continental climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The union-heavy labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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