Bathroom Painting Cost by Size
| Bathroom Size | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small 5×8 | $30–$70 | $150–$350 |
| Average 8×10 | $50–$100 | $200–$450 |
| Large 10×12 | $70–$140 | $250–$550 |
| Master bath 12×14 | $100–$180 | $350–$700 |
Why Bathroom Paint Costs More Per Sq Ft
Professional painters often charge a minimum call-out fee regardless of room size — meaning a small bathroom costs more per square foot than a large living room. A minimum charge of $150–$200 is common even for the smallest bathroom.
Bathroom-specific moisture-resistant paints also cost more than standard wall paint — typically $40–$65 per gallon vs $25–$40 for standard latex. The premium is worth paying — standard paint in a bathroom will fail within 1–2 years.
DIY Bathroom Painting — Is It Worth It?
Bathrooms are ideal DIY painting projects because of their small size. One gallon of bathroom paint costs $40–$65 and covers a small bathroom for two coats. A small bathroom can be painted in 2–3 hours including prep — making DIY very practical even for beginners.
The one area where professional help is worth considering is bathrooms with extensive tile removal, mould remediation, or complex prep work. Basic repainting over existing sound paint is always a DIY-friendly job.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to paint a bathroom?
An average 5×8 bathroom costs $150–$350 professionally and $30–$70 DIY. Large master bathrooms cost $350–$700 professionally.
Do I need special paint for a bathroom?
Yes — use satin or semi-gloss with mildew-resistant additives. Standard flat paint absorbs moisture and will peel or grow mould in any bathroom.
Is bathroom painting a good DIY project?
Yes — small size makes it one of the easiest rooms to paint. Most bathrooms can be completed in 2–3 hours including prep. The cost savings are significant relative to the effort.
How often should you repaint a bathroom?
With quality moisture-resistant paint, every 3–5 years. Poor ventilation or cheap paint may require repainting sooner.
Why does a tiny bathroom cost so much professionally?
Professional painters have minimum charges regardless of room size, plus bathroom prep (removing fixtures, caulking, mould treatment) takes proportionally more time in small spaces.
What is the best paint colour for a small bathroom?
Light colours — pale blue, soft white, light grey — make small bathrooms feel larger. Dark tones work in larger bathrooms with good lighting and create a spa-like atmosphere.