Cost to Paint 600 Sq. Ft Apartment: Room-by-Room Budget Guide
Refreshing your apartment with a new coat of paint can completely transform your living space without breaking the bank. Whether you’re covering up scuff marks or updating outdated colors, understanding the cost to paint 600 sq. ft apartment helps you budget smartly. Let’s break down what you will spend in each room and explore ways to maximize your investment.
Breaking Down Your Painting Budget
A 600-square-foot apartment typically costs between $1,800 and $3,600 for professional painting, averaging about $3-$6 per square foot. However, this varies based on paint quality, ceiling height, and room condition.
If you decide to go the DIY route, expect to spend $200–$500 on supplies (rollers, brushes, drop cloths, tape, and paint). You’ll save money but invest around 20–30 hours of your own labor—time most busy city dwellers can’t easily spare.
Living Room: Your Biggest Investment
The living room usually consumes 30-40% of your painting budget since it’s the largest space. Expect to pay $600-$1,200 for professional work here.
Cost factors include:
- Wall texture and current paint condition
- Accent walls requiring different colors
- Trim and molding detail work
- Furniture moving and floor protection
Pro tip: Investing in premium paint for high-traffic areas like living rooms pays off with better coverage and durability.
Kitchen and Bathroom Economics
These moisture-prone rooms need special attention. Kitchen painting runs $300-$600, while bathrooms cost $200-$400. The smaller square footage doesn’t always mean cheaper work—specialized primers and moisture-resistant paints increase costs.
Kitchen Considerations
Grease buildup requires extra prep work, including thorough cleaning and primer application. Cabinet painting adds $400-$1,000 if you’re going all-in on the transformation.
Bathroom Specifics
Bathroom painting involves:
- Mildew-resistant paint ($40-$60 per gallon)
- Ventilation during drying
- Careful taping around fixtures
Bedroom Bliss on a Budget
Bedrooms offer the best value, costing $400-$800 per room. With fewer obstacles and simpler layouts, painters work efficiently here. Many homeowners choose one accent wall to add personality without doubling their budget.
Smart Money-Saving Strategies
Want professional results without overspending? Try these proven cost-saving moves:
- Paint in winter: Contractors often offer 10–20% seasonal discounts.
- Bundle rooms: Painters charge less per sq. ft. for multi-room projects.
- Prep early: Clear furniture and remove wall décor before painters arrive to avoid service fees.
- Choose mid-grade paint: Quality options ($30–$45 per gallon) perform nearly as well as high-end brands and last for years.
For a 600 sq. ft. apartment, you’ll need about 2 gallons of paint for two coats on standard-height walls
DIY vs. Professional: The Real Comparison
DIY painting costs $200-$500 but demands 20-30 hours of labor. Professional jobs finish in 2-3 days with cleaner lines, even coverage, and guaranteed results. For most apartment dwellers, the cost of professionally painting a 600 sq. ft apartment justifies skipping the weekend warrior route.
Fresh Walls, Fresh Start
Understanding the cost to paint 600 sq. ft apartment empowers you to make informed decisions about your space. Whether you choose professional services or tackle it yourself, fresh paint delivers incredible value—boosting your mood, increasing property appeal, and protecting walls for years. With proper planning and smart choices, you will achieve stunning results that fit your budget perfectly.
Partner with experts who understand apartment painting inside and out. Visit NYC Renovation today for professional estimates and quality workmanship that brings your vision to life!
