Interior Costs — 2026 Price Guide
Painting, drywall, and interior finishes
Interior updates refresh your living space without major construction. Professional interior painting costs $2-$6 per square foot, while DIY runs $0.50-$1.50 per square foot in materials.
Popular interior projects include painting (highest ROI home improvement), crown molding installation, built-in shelving, and accent walls. Most interior work doesn't require permits unless you're moving walls.
Interior Projects
Interior Cost FAQs
How much does interior painting cost?
Professional interior painting costs $2-$6 per square foot of wall space. An average room costs $400-$800. Whole house painting runs $4,000-$12,000 depending on size and prep needed.
How much does crown molding cost?
Crown molding installation costs $8-$15 per linear foot including materials and labor. A typical room (50 LF) costs $400-$750. Wood molding costs more than MDF or foam alternatives.
How much does drywall repair cost?
Small patches cost $50-$150. Large hole repair runs $150-$350. Full room drywall replacement costs $800-$2,500. Texture matching and painting add to these costs.
How often should you repaint interiors?
Repaint every 5-10 years on average. High-traffic areas need repainting every 3-5 years. Hallways, kitchens, and kids rooms need more frequent updates. Quality paint lasts longer.
What interior updates have the best ROI?
Paint is the best ROI at 100-200% return. Other high-value updates: light fixture upgrades, new door hardware, updated trim, and fresh caulking. Low cost, high impact improvements.