Cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in Philadelphia, PA (2026)
Planning to remove a popcorn ceiling in Philadelphia, PA? Expect to spend roughly $2,000 for a typical job, with the range running from about $900 on the low end to $4,500 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 Philadelphia
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 Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia's housing stock skews older, and homes built before 1978 trigger EPA lead-safe renovation rules for anything disturbing painted surfaces — common in a city where rowhouses often date to the early-to-mid 1900s. The city also has its own contractor licensing requirements, separate from state licensing.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in Philadelphia, PA?
In Philadelphia, PA, it typically costs $900 to $4,500, with an average of about $2,000. 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 Philadelphia, PA costs. For an exact number, get a free in-person quote from a local pro.