A painting business has one of the lowest barriers to entry in the trades — and one of the highest profit margins. With the right approach, you can be profitable within your first month. Here's how to start in 2026.
Why Painting is a Great Business to Start
- Low startup costs (under $2,000 to get started)
- High demand — every home and business needs painting eventually
- No licensing required in most states (check your local requirements)
- Scalable — easy to add crew members as you grow
- Repeat business — clients repaint every 5-10 years
Step 1: Get the Legal Basics Done
Register an LLC, get general liability insurance ($500-$1,000/year), and open a business bank account. This takes one afternoon and makes you look professional immediately.
Step 2: Get Your Equipment
Start with the essentials: quality brushes and rollers (don't cheap out here — it shows in the finish), drop cloths, painter's tape, a ladder, and a sprayer if you plan to do exteriors. Budget around $500-$1,500 for a solid starter kit.
Step 3: Price Your Work
A common formula: calculate your material cost, multiply by 3 for the total job price. For labor-only jobs, charge $40-$75/hour depending on your market. Always provide a written estimate before starting any job.
Step 4: Get Your First Clients
Start with your network. Offer a "grand opening" discount to the first 5 clients in exchange for a Google review. Post before/after photos on Instagram and Facebook. Create a Google Business Profile on day one.
Step 5: Look Like a Pro From Day One
Wear a clean uniform, drive a clean vehicle, and send professional invoices. MyToolbelt lets you create and send a professional painting estimate or invoice from your phone in under a minute.