Find top rated painting ceiling pros in your area

Expect to pay between $150 and $300 to repaint a bathroom ceiling, depending on its size and any additional preparation, such as mildew cleaning or primer application. Most painters also charge a minimum fee of $150, even for tiny spaces, so the price rarely dips lower. To stretch your dollars, bundle the bathroom with another ceiling or room that needs a refresh—pros can tackle both in one trip, saving you on labor.

Plan on spending $440 to $1,500 to patch and paint a ceiling, with the price depending on the extent of the damage and the materials required. Factor repair costs into your budget first—you’ll need a ceiling pro to handle cracks or water stains before painters arrive. Skipping that step risks an uneven finish and could mean repainting sooner than you’d like.

Most ceilings need two solid coats for an even, durable finish. Those layers cover minor stains and prevent flashing. If you’re hiding dark marks, bold colors, or a thirsty texture, you may need a third coat or a stain-blocking primer first. Taking the extra step up front saves time and keeps the finish looking sharp for years.

When painting your home, tackle the ceiling first, then move on to the walls. Starting overhead lets any stray drips fall onto surfaces you haven’t finished yet, reducing touch-ups and keeping your workflow smooth. With this method, you’ll end up with cleaner lines and a uniform finish throughout the room.

A solid painting quote should clearly outline material costs, labor charges, and exactly what’s included, such as prep, two coats, cleanup, and so on. Look for a timeline, payment schedule, and any warranty details. If the painter supplies materials, the quote should list paint brand, color, quantity, and sheen. Clear line items make it easier to compare bids on an apples-to-apples basis.

One five-gallon bucket covers 1,750 to 2,000 square feet per coat, so allow for 875 to 1,000 square feet if you’re applying the recommended two coats. For smaller jobs, figure each individual gallon covers 350 to 400 square feet per coat. These numbers help you buy the right amount of paint without over-ordering.