Cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in San Francisco, CA (2026)
In San Francisco, CA, a popcorn ceiling removal project usually costs $1,150–$5,800, averaging near $2,600. Below is what drives that price and how to keep it in check.
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 San Francisco
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 San Francisco, CA
San Francisco combines high seismic-zone requirements with some of the strictest local planning and permitting review in the country — many projects (even interior ones in older buildings) require Planning Department sign-off before Building Department permitting starts, which extends typical timelines. Soft-story seismic retrofit rules also apply to certain older multi-unit buildings.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a popcorn ceiling in San Francisco, CA?
In San Francisco, CA, it typically costs $1,150 to $5,800, with an average of about $2,600. 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 San Francisco, CA costs. For an exact number, get a free in-person quote from a local pro.