The average cost for painting in San Francisco ranges from $3.50 to $8.50 per square foot, depending on project complexity, materials, and labor availability. Interior painting typically costs $3.50 to $6.00 per sq.ft., while exterior projects including stucco or wood surfaces may cost $5.00 to $8.50 per sq.ft. Premium finishes or specialty services can exceed $10.00 per sq.ft.

San Francisco’s painting costs are influenced by high labor rates, stringent building regulations, and material expenses. Labor costs account for 60-70% of the total, with unionized painters charging $35-45 per hour. Material prices are 20-30% higher than national averages due to local distribution and environmental compliance. A 2023 survey by the California Painting Association found that exterior projects require 15-20% more time and materials than interior work in SF, reflecting unique challenges like coastal weatherproofing and historic building restoration. For example, repainting a 1,500 sq.ft. home’s exterior costs $7,500-$12,750, while a 1,000 sq.ft. interior repaint ranges from $3,500 to $6,000. Local codes also mandate specialized coatings for earthquake-prone areas, adding 10-15% to material costs. These factors collectively drive SF’s painting rates above the U.S. average of $2.50-$5.00 per sq.ft.