Cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in New York, NY (2026)
Planning to remove a popcorn ceiling in New York, NY? Expect to spend roughly $2,500 for a typical job, with the range running from about $1,100 on the low end to $5,600 for larger or higher-end work.
What drives the cost
- Square footage
- Whether it contains asbestos (testing)
- Re-texture and repaint
- Room prep and height
What's typically included
- Scraping and removal
- Skim coat and re-texture
- Priming and paint
- Cleanup
Where the money typically goes
As a rough rule of thumb for interior remodeling projects, quotes tend to break down like this — actual splits vary by contractor and scope:
How to get the best price in New York
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 New York, NY
The New York metro spans some of the oldest housing stock in the country alongside dense new construction, so permitting often hinges on a building's age and landmark status as much as the project itself — co-op and condo boards frequently add their own approval layer on top of city permits. Labor and disposal costs run well above the national average, and older buildings (pre-1978) trigger lead-safe work practice rules for anything disturbing painted surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in New York, NY?
In New York, NY, it typically costs $1,100 to $5,600, with an average of about $2,500. Your exact price depends on square footage and whether it contains asbestos (testing).
What affects the price the most?
The biggest cost drivers are: Square footage; Whether it contains asbestos (testing); Re-texture and repaint; Room prep and height. 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 remove a popcorn ceiling generally includes: Scraping and removal; Skim coat and re-texture; Priming and paint; 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 New York, NY costs. For an exact number, get a free in-person quote from a local pro.