Cost to paint a home exterior in Washington, DC (2026)
Planning to paint a home exterior in Washington, DC? Expect to spend roughly $7,000 for a typical job, with the range running from about $3,800 on the low end to $13,000 for larger or higher-end work.
What drives the cost
- Home size and number of stories
- Siding material and condition
- Power washing and prep
- Paint grade and trim work
What's typically included
- Power washing and scraping
- Primer and premium exterior paint
- Trim and doors
- Labor and cleanup
Where the money typically goes
As a rough rule of thumb for exterior and structural projects, quotes tend to break down like this — actual splits vary by contractor and scope:
How to get the best price in Washington
Get 2–3 itemized quotes from licensed, insured local pros and compare the same scope and materials. Ask about off-season timing and bundling related work. The lowest bid isn't always the best value — check reviews, licensing and warranty.
Local factors in Washington, DC
DC's rowhouse-heavy housing stock means shared walls and tight lot lines, so party-wall agreements and historic-district review (a large share of the city sits in a designated historic district) are common extra steps beyond the standard permit. The Historic Preservation Review Board can add real time to exterior projects specifically.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to paint a home exterior in Washington, DC?
In Washington, DC, it typically costs $3,800 to $13,000, with an average of about $7,000. Your exact price depends on home size and number of stories and siding material and condition.
What affects the price the most?
The biggest cost drivers are: Home size and number of stories; Siding material and condition; Power washing and prep; Paint grade and trim work. Getting 2–3 itemized quotes is the best way to see how these apply to your specific project.
What's usually included?
A standard quote to paint a home exterior generally includes: Power washing and scraping; Primer and premium exterior paint; Trim and doors; Labor and cleanup. Always confirm what's in (and out of) scope before signing.
How can I save money?
Get multiple quotes, ask about off-season scheduling, bundle related work, and make sure you're comparing the same scope and materials. The cheapest bid isn't always the best value — check licensing, insurance and reviews.
Are these prices exact?
No — they're estimated local ranges for planning, derived from national averages adjusted for Washington, DC costs. For an exact number, get a free in-person quote from a local pro.