In this guide

Wall Mural Cost by Type of Paint

The best type of paint to use for a basic mural is acrylic. An artist can use latex paint for the underpainting base layer, as this paint is cheaper. An eggshell finish is the best choice as satin and semi-gloss would be too shiny and flat paint cannot be scrubbed. For outdoor murals, or those on stone or brick, a high quality acrylic, mixed with an acrylic polymer is the best bet. Spray paint may also be used. A clear coat or graffiti seal may be needed on some murals. The price for applying a clear coat or seal is about $2 per sq.ft. Faux finishes are usually created by mixing a glaze with paint to create the desired look. A glaze will cost about $14 per pint. It is also important to use high quality paints that will not fade quickly.

Sharpie Wall Mural

These paint pens average $3 to $10 each. Sharpies are popular permanent markers and pens, but the brand also carries special paint pens for wall murals. This is a unique way to apply small amounts of paint to wall murals. The oil-based paint markers are much smaller than other paint varieties and are used for minute details, fine shading, and textured areas. With the right technique and a few applications, a Sharpie wall mural mixed with acrylics looks great. Typically, the oil paint works best applied atop an acrylic foundation. This type of paint adheres to walls, wood, plastic, and stone and absorbs lightly into the materials.

Airbrush Murals

The average cost is $5 to $15 per 4 oz. bottle. Airbrush painting uses a stream of compressed air to push the paint out and onto the surface smoothly. The airbrush spray gun can be used with different size nozzles for small details and large-scale murals. Airbrush is popular because it allows artists to focus on fine details and create realistic artworks. With a light and airy feel, airbrushing is great for subtle shading and shadow illusions. It absorbs well into the wall but is still light enough for more painting. Acrylic paints work best for airbrush painting. Keep in mind that airbrush paints are sold in much smaller quantities than other wall paints.

Spray Paint Mural

The average price for spray paints is $5 to $20 per 12 oz. can. Spray paint comes in aerosol cans and is applied using a small nozzle within the can. Commonly used for graffiti and urban street art, spray paint can create eye-catching murals with the proper application by an experienced artist. Spray paint looks light and airy and feels smooth to the touch. It may not absorb as deeply as traditional oil or acrylic paint, but it still is one of the preferred choices for murals, especially in public spaces. It can be used for home murals too. It’s best to apply spray paint over an acrylic or oil base. Different paint varieties are suitable for wood, plastic, metal, and glass.

Oil Paint Mural

Expect to pay an average of $20 to $70 per gallon of oil paint. Oil paint is a good choice for long-lasting indoor or outdoor murals. These paints come in larger quantities, such as gallons to cover wider walls and big blocks of color. Oil paint retains its color well and absorbs deeply into the surface for comprehensive paint coverage. It takes longer to dry than other paints, allowing artists to be creative and change shapes and colors as they experiment on the wall. Oil paints are good for wood, metal, canvas, and a lot of other materials too. It can also be a base before smaller airbrush or spray paint features.

Acrylic Paint Mural

The average price for acrylic paints is $20 to $100 per gallon. Acrylic paints come in a wide range of colors and finishes, much like oil paints. Compared to oil paints, acrylic requires slightly less maintenance and can be thinned with just water instead of chemicals. Acrylic paint is preferred by many mural painters as it's incredibly versatile and can be used across a range of surfaces for a smooth, sharp finish. Acrylics can take just a few minutes to dry, so artists need to be pretty sure of their work before applying the paint. Acrylics are also known for their fantastic lightfastness, which means they won’t fade over time after being exposed to light.

Mural Painting Prices by Paint Brand

One of the main factors in how much a wall mural installation costs is the specific type of paint and the brand you choose. The paint quality affects the finished mural and determines how long the mural lasts. It is important to use high-quality paint. Wall mural artists typically include paint costs in their quotes because they have brands they prefer to use. Some artists accept client requests for certain brands, while others may work exclusively with one type. Here are some of the most common paint brands and the average cost per gallon.

Chroma Mural Paint

Chroma mural paint averages $15 to $30 per gallon. Students and teachers in art classes often use Chroma mural paint to test their skills. This mural paint is popular with its range of water-resistant paint products that are bright and bold in color. There are acrylic and matte options priced reasonably for homeowners who want a mural on a budget.

Pelaka Mural Paint

Homeowners pay $20 to $30 per gallon on average for Pelaka. It is another affordable paint brand focused on non-toxic, water-based hues that attract attention for good reasons. From light green and pink to orange-red and chrome yellow, Pelaka mural paints are used to set the foundation for a quality indoor or outdoor mural.

Blick Paint

Blick paints cost $20 to $35 per gallon on average. You can get acrylic, watercolor, and oil paints from Blick. They also have varnishes that could protect a mural once it's completed. Blick paints are known for their strong pigment and smooth texture, making them suitable for a permanent wall mural.

Liquitex Paint Price

The Liquitex acrylic paint price is between $20 and $40 per gallon on average. This brand has a long history in the painting industry, having invented water-based acrylic paint in the 1950s. The company continues to offer a range of acrylic paints that are suitable for mural painting. These paints retain artistic brush strokes for a beautifully textured finish.

PPG Paint Cost

PPG paints cost $25 to $50 per gallon on average. Their 100% acrylic paints provide adequate coverage and awesome color on wall murals. Seen as a leader in the painting industry, PPG has the highest revenue of any coating company in the world. These acrylic paints are designed to last with super-strong adhesive properties, so they really stick to the wall and stand out brightly against the surroundings.

Nova Color Mural Paint

Nova Color paints are made with a pure acrylic binder of the highest quality, supporting the higher average price of $75 to $100 per gallon. This brand specializes in acrylic paint, which works well for all the stunning details on custom wall murals. They are known for iridescent, pearl, and scenic paints, all great materials for landscape murals inside or outside a house.

Golden Mural Paint

Most homeowners pay $80 to $120 on average for a gallon of Golden mural paint. Golden Mural is a trusted choice for higher-end paints. The heavy-duty pigments in these paints make for a dynamic finish on wall murals and other art projects. The company also makes varnish gloss, isolation coats, and acrylic topcoats with UV protection.

One Shot Paint

A gallon of One Shot paint for a wall mural costs $90 to $160 on average. One Shot is an experienced producer of painting products founded in 1948. They offer many different mural painting products such as waterproof art and poster topcoats, background enamels, and fluorescent colors. They also have tinted black and white paints and priming materials.

Average Cost for Mural Painting

Most artists will have a set rate per square foot. On occasion, an artist may charge per hour. Expect to pay between $50 and $70 per hour if an artist charges an hourly rate. The cost per square foot is generally between $10 and $30 depending on the complexity of the design. Pricing includes all materials, but if lifts or scaffolding ¹ are needed, that will add on extra costs. The cost to rent a lift for a day is about $120.

Sure, it could be fun to try to paint a mural yourself, but chances are it will look much better painted by a professional. They have the training and talent needed to create beautiful art for your home. So how much do muralists charge to paint a wall mural in your home? Well, the cost depends on the time it will take to complete a mural. This depends on many things, including the size, subject, if scaffolding or a lift will be needed, and if there are obstacles that need to be worked around. Most murals can be completed in 40 hours (one week). Smaller, uncomplicated murals will take less time and large, complicated murals will take more time.

Down payments are usually part of a wall mural installation project. While the amount will depend on your painter’s preference, the industry standard is around 50 percent. This payment may include the sketch fee, initial work, and materials. Then, the painter is covered for the cost of buying the materials and designing the mural even if the homeowner backs out.

It is possible to save some money by hiring an artist who is still in school or just starting out. Their rates could be discounted in order to build their experience and portfolio. Just be sure that the artist has enough experience and will do a good job. Prices will also vary depending on the part of the country you live in. A mural in a New York City apartment will cost more than in a house in Houston, TX. Hiring a muralist from out of state will also be more expensive, as travel costs would need to be paid for as well.

Mural Painting Cost per Square Foot

Although it may seem that the larger a mural is, the more expensive it would be, that is not always the case. Most artists will have a size minimum of somewhere between 100 and 160 sq.ft. The price normally directly correlates to how detailed the mural is, not how large it is. A small mural with intricate details could cost more than a large mural without much detail. A mural could cover a small space on the wall of a room, an entire wall, or an entire ceiling. Most painters offer mural costs per square foot around $20 to $30 for a mural with medium-level intricacy.

A simple mural without much detail would cost around $10 per sq.ft., whereas an intricate and detailed mural would cost around $30-$40 per sq.ft. For a 200 sq.ft. mural, that is $4,000 for simple and $6,000 for highly detailed. Medium-level intricacy would obviously fall somewhere in between. Each artist has their own threshold for intricacy. The more colors used and design elements desired make a mural more intricate. The low end of the ranges in the table accounts for a less intricate design, while the high-ends are for a more complicated and intricate wall mural featuring multiple design techniques, colors and paint materials.

Mural Painting by Type of Surface

Murals can be painted on many different surfaces. The wall construction in your home will affect your total costs. This is true for both indoor and outdoor home murals. Each surface type has its own peculiarities, so you and your painter will need to determine the surface type before painting supplies are purchased. When in doubt about the ease or difficulty of painting on a certain wall, consult your artist or painting company. Here are some of the most common surface types and the average costs for painting a 200 sq. ft. wall mural on them.

Drywall Mural

The average cost for a drywall ² mural is $10 to $25 per sq. ft. You should budget $2,000 to $5,000 to finish a 200 sq. ft. project. Drywall is one of the most common materials for constructing interior walls. It’s relatively easy to paint on as long as you use at least a coat of primer first. Drywall is smooth and can be painted in large strokes with a roller or brush thanks to the even surface. When painting a drywall mural, just be aware of the wall’s location in relation to windows and doors. The more sunlight that streams through and hits the wall directly, the more maintenance and protection your mural may require to minimize wear and tear over time.

Plaster Mural

The average cost for a plaster ³ mural is $10 to $30 per sq. ft. or $2,000 to $6,000 for a 200 sq. ft. mural. Plaster is similar to drywall and is another popular material for interior walls. It provides enhanced insulation and better fireproofing. Plaster blocks sound and prevents mold growth very well. If you have plaster walls in your home and would like to paint a mural on them, keep in mind that the surface should be cleaned before starting, and a few coats will give you vivid color. If you can choose a wall with less direct sunlight, your mural may last longer.

Stucco Mural

The average cost of a stucco ⁴ mural is $10 to $35 per sq. ft. or $2,000 to $7,000 for a 200 sq. ft. mural. Stucco walls are made of sand and cement, so this porous material typically requires a little more preparation before mural painting. The slightly textured surface can be used to create big, bold murals for inside or outside living areas. Oil paints work well for stucco murals, but they may require future touch-ups as they are less resistant to sun exposure and the elements than acrylic paints. Special masonry latex paint may also work.

Concrete Wall Mural

Concrete wall murals cost $15 to $30 per square foot on average, or $3,000 to $6,000 for a 200 sq. ft. project. Concrete wall murals are commonly found in cities and parks, but you can bring this artistic flair right into your home. Whether it's a concrete wall in the garage, basement, living room, bedroom, or backyard, you can bring these walls to life with a mural. Keep in mind that concrete is porous and needs to be primed before painting. Eggshell acrylic paint is commonly used for a fully washable mural that’s easier to maintain.

Glass Mural

The average cost for a glass mural is $15 to $40 per square foot or $3,000 to $8,000 to finish a 200 sq. ft. interior mural. Glass walls are more unusual than other types, especially if they are decorated with a dynamic mural. As these walls are incorporated into more modern designs, the demand for mural paintings across them is increasing. Acrylic paint is good for glass surfaces, and there’s a wide range of colors to consider. These paints also hold up better against direct sunlight that may bounce off of the glass wall.

Brick Wall Mural

The average cost of brick wall murals is $20 to $35 per square foot or $4,000 to $7,000 to cover 200 sq. ft., although it depends on the artist and the complexity of the final design. Brick walls can be enhanced with beautiful murals. They look best when used with thinner paints that can seep into the crevices for a bright, bold look. The density of bricks makes them a bit trickier to cover fully with paint, so a few coats are usually required. Before painting on brick walls, consider the location and how much sunlight it will receive. Brick wall murals may not last as long when in direct sunlight.

Wood Wall Mural

If you wanted to paint a 200 sq. ft. mural across wood walls in your home, the average cost would be around $4,000 to $7,000, although it may change based on the artist you choose and their preferred materials. Wood is a natural material like brick that requires extra prep time for mural painting. These walls give off a natural, rustic look that can be enhanced with the right materials, such as primer ⁵ and oil or acrylic paint. It may take a few coats to cover wood walls, and a little bit of extra prep makes the average price around $20 to $35 per square foot.

Mural Painting Cost by Technique

There are a variety of techniques used to paint murals. Most techniques are pretty standard and will not incur an extra fee. Applying several coats of oil, acrylic, or airbrush paints should not change the overall pricing. However, more complicated techniques, such as trompe l’oeil, may cost extra. Overall, the total cost of a 200 sq. ft. indoor mural project of medium intricacy is outlined in the table below. Keep in mind costs may go up if you have a complex design that requires several different techniques instead of just one or two basic application methods.

Stipple Wall Texture

Stipple texturing is relatively inexpensive, around $1 to $5 per square foot, so if you prefer an entire 200 sq. ft. mural to be stippled, it may cost $200 to $1,000. Stippling is a popular technique used in murals. It adds detail to a mural by first painting one color onto the wall, then adding another color. While the top paint is still wet, the artist will dab the wet paint to allow some of the base coat to show through. This technique could, for example, add depth to a field or meadow.

Sponging a Wall

Sponging costs around $3 to $5 per square foot, so a 200 sq. ft. mural project may end up costing about $600 to $1,000. Sponging is an easy technique that can add texture by using a sponge to apply paint. It is widely used in landscape murals, particularly when creating trees or skies. Once the base is applied, a sponge can be used to produce amazing patterns and looks on a budget.

Wall Paint Glazing

The cost to apply glazing is approximately $4 to $12 per sq. ft. on average, so the cost to glaze a 200 sq. ft. mural would be $800 to $2,400. Glazing is a technique that adds dimension and shading to a mural. It is done by mixing acrylic paint with a glazing liquid. Glazing is more common in medium- and high-level mural designs that require greater intricacy and detail.

Wall Mural Stencils

Using mural stencils usually costs between $5-$30 per square foot, so your 200 sq. ft. project would be between $1,000 and $6,000, although it may be less if only a section of the mural needs to be stenciled. Stenciling ⁶ is another easy technique when the artist will either tape or hold a stencil on the wall and paint in the stencil. This is great for borders or adding letters and shapes to a mural. Stencils are popular for fun and playful murals in children’s rooms or living areas, and may be used to make animals or people.

Vintage Wall Mural

The average cost for a vintage wall mural is about $15 to $30 per sq. ft. or $3,000 to $6,000 in total to cover 200 sq. ft. Adding a vintage look to a wall mural, or antiquing, is a technique that makes a mural look old. It involves mixing a color such as siena or umber with a glazing medium and brushing the mixture onto the wall when the paint is still wet. This is a cool option if you want a retro look without using wallpaper.

Faux Finish Mural

If you want a fully faux finish mural 200 sq. ft. in size, plan to pay around $4,000 to $6,000 on average. Faux finishes may be used to comprise an entire mural or just a part of it. An artist may create faux brick or stone, plaster 3 2, linen, or other looks. Adding these extra materials is more complicated than a standalone mural, which explains the slightly higher average costs of $20 to $30 per square foot.

Trompe l’oeil Mural

Expect to pay $30 to $40 per square foot 5 or more, depending on the complexity. A 200 sq. ft. project may cost you $6,000 to $8,000 or more on average. Trompe l’oeil is painting objects that look as realistic as a photograph and exist in three dimensions. These paintings make it look like objects are actually in the room and coming off the walls. Requesting a mural in this style will undoubtedly come with a higher price tag due to the necessary attention to detail and the extra time it takes to produce work of this caliber.

Mural Painting Process

Each artist will have their own variation on the mural painting process, but here are the basic steps:

1. Prepare the surface and area to be painted. Do this yourself, hire someone, or have the artist do it.

2. The artist will then prepare the design. There are a few methods of doing this. They could simply sketch the design on the wall, use a projector to trace the design, or use a grid. The grid method is done by drawing a grid over the design on paper and then drawing a grid on the wall in chalk or watercolor pencil. Once the grid is made, the image can be outlined on the wall.

3. Next, the artist will prepare the paint and supplies. Using the proper size brushes will save on time. They will also prepare paint trays and soapy water for cleaning brushes to have ready when needed. Self-priming latex paint is great for a base coat and then water-based acrylics are usually used to create the small details and pops of color.

4. The artist is now ready to paint the mural. It is important to have good ventilation when painting to ensure the paint fumes can be released–chat with the artist about a ventilation plan. Several layers of paint will be needed to create the mural. Time will be needed between coats to let them dry.

5. Lastly, the artist will step back every once in a while and make sure everything is looking great from a distance. If something does not look right, it can be painted over. When the mural is done it may need to be sealed so that it is protected from the elements. This is especially important with an outdoor mural. After all is done and the mural is completely dry, it is time to clean up, uncover furniture, and move everything back.

Wall Mural Painting Preparation

For a successful mural project, you need to have a clean, solid mural base. It’s all about preparing the wall for the mural so that you can enjoy the best results and have a mural that holds up for years to come. Remember that each wall needs a base coat before the fresh mural colors are applied. The workspace needs to be cleared. The artist may charge extra fees if more painting or wall patching needs to be done, which is usually priced between $55 and $90 per hour. This includes filling holes and cracks, texturizing the wall, and using a primer. Don’t forget to move any furniture out of the room to ensure no paint damages your personal belongings.

Paint Lightfastness

When looking at home murals, the lightfastness of different colors and materials is very important. Lightfastness refers to a material’s ability to withstand fading from sunlight exposure. The more lightfast a certain paint is, the stronger and more vivid it appears even after a lot of direct sunlight. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM and the British Standard (B/S) are the two rating systems used to evaluate lightfastness in paint pigments.

Some paint products have the lightfastness included directly in the product information, but you can also ask your painter to confirm how the pigment rates on the lightfastness scale. Keep in mind that blues are known to fade earlier than other colors. If your paint is rated ASTM I or ASTM II, it is the most lightfast, while ASTM III is the least lightfast and more likely to fade in the light sooner than others. On the B/S scale, aim for a rating of six to eight, which is the best for exterior painting. A rating below six on the B/S scale has poor lightfastness, so it’s best to avoid those products. There are also opacity ratings for oil, acrylic, latex, spray paint, and all other paint types. For example, yellow latex is one of the most translucent paints and requires three or four coats to minimize the opacity.

Wall Mural Design Cost

Each artist may have their own variation of the design process. It is a good idea to meet with an artist to tell them what you are looking for and see if their experience and style match your vision before hiring them. Ask to see a portfolio and check out references before hiring someone. It is typical for an artist to ask for a design deposit before beginning work on the project, usually around $1,500. This should cover the cost of a sketch and revisions if needed. Most artists can create a digital mock up of the design on a photo of the room before starting the painting process. You may be able to skip or modify the design process if you already have the design done yourself.

Something else to keep in mind with wall mural design is that it’s common for painting companies to charge a non-refundable design sketch fee, incorporated as part of the project cost. Expect to pay $800 to $1,500 depending on the project size and complexity. Before painting the mural, some painters draw it out on paper so that homeowners can confirm that the design meets their vision. This sketch takes a few hours. Painting companies and artists want to make sure they are paid for their work even if homeowners change their minds on the final mural. Expect your painter to have limits on how many sketches you can do. A maximum of three sketches with two rounds of changes is pretty standard. Check with your painting company to determine their policy.

Hand-Painted Wall Murals for Children's Rooms

One popular place for hand-painted wall murals is children’s rooms. Young kids love the sight of a colorful, creative mural that encourages their imagination and represents some of their favorite things. There’s no end to the possibilities for children’s murals, whether it’s a favorite princess or superhero, an outdoor scene, or their animal friends. Finding a children’s room mural artist really depends on what you want. If you just want a cute painting that’s pretty generic and doesn’t require a lot of customization, a general mural painter in your local area may be able to do it for you. If you have a set vision that requires multiple different designs and very specific details, it may be better to choose a specialist in children’s murals who can meet your needs. The average cost for hand-painted children’s room wall murals is $15 to $55 per square foot. You can expect to pay $3,000 to $11,000 for a 200 sq. ft. room, depending on the level of detail and the painter you hire.

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UV Mural

A UV mural is made using specialized UV paints that give off a glow effect in the dark. These illuminating murals transform what looks like blank walls during the day into bright, neon works of art at night. Not all artists offer UV mural painting, which requires specific UV paint that’s fluorescent in the dark, unlike other mural materials that give off the same appearance all day long. UV paint is affected by the amount of light in a room as it absorbs the invisible UV rays and then reflects the light. UV paint is best used indoors and averages $20 to $75 per gallon. For a 200 square foot UV mural project at the average of $20 to $60 per square foot, it may cost $4,000 to $12,000 depending on the artist you hire and their expertise and price point.

Stained Glass Mural Painting

Mural windows are another option for enhancing the look and feel of a home. They require special materials and an experienced painter who can appropriately apply paint over your windows. Think of it as very similar to stained glass windows. You can also have the walls surrounding windows painted for an artistic addition to any room. Acrylic or tempera paint is normally used to paint glass windows or their surroundings, which people like for the bright bursts of creative color inside and outside. The average cost for mural window painting is $20 to $60 per square foot or $2,000 to $6,000 to cover a 100 sq. ft. project, depending on the company you choose, their skill level, and the complexity of the design.

Mural Windows

Mural windows are realistic window paintings that feature beautiful sceneries such as rolling hills, beaches, forests, and other natural landscapes. These projects require a skilled artist who can make the windows blend in with the rest of the mural. Oil, acrylic, and airbrush paints are commonly used for mural windows. Some painting companies charge extra for mural windows, around $15 to $35 per sq. ft. or incorporate them in the overall mural design, which you can discuss in the design stage ¹ as part of the consultation and down payment.

Ceiling Wall Murals

Simply enough, a wall mural is painted on a wall and a ceiling mural is painted on a ceiling. A ceiling mural is more difficult to paint and will therefore cost more. Additional equipment, such as scaffolding 6 or a lift are also usually required. The same paint is used for both wall and ceiling murals. Spray-paint is rarely used on ceilings. Sealing is rarely required for a ceiling mural since no one should be touching it.

Some artists will charge extra per hour for working under extraneous circumstances. Others may charge more per sq.ft. Equipment rental charges will also be accrued. It will cost about $120 a day to rent a lift or about $50 a day to rent scaffolding ¹. If the equipment is needed for a long period of time, weekly or monthly rates would likely be a better deal.

Outdoor Fence Murals

Another popular option for eye-catching artwork is outdoor fence murals. Just about anything can be painted on a fence. Some neighborhoods really appreciate the addition of outdoor fence murals. You will need to check with your preferred painting company to see if they offer this or not. Many companies do outdoor fence murals in addition to indoor murals. You may want to hire a specialist in outdoor fence painting, although that may cost more, around $30 to $40 per sq. ft. depending on their qualifications. The main difference between a fence mural and a wall mural is the materials on which they are painted. Outdoor fence murals are usually painted on wood fencing but may also be done on brick or metal fencing. Acrylic paint or spray paint is best for outdoor fence murals, while there are more options for oil-based paints on indoor murals. The average cost for an outdoor fence mural is usually $10 to $35 per sq. ft., so a 100 ft. fence would cost between $1,000 and $3,500.

Mural Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a mural starts before the painting begins. Proper wall preparation and cleaning is essential. Using quality paints is also important, as well as using a sealant, varnish, or other top coat. Be sure to ask the artist about proper cleaning and maintenance techniques for the mural when it is finished. These will differ depending on what type of paint was used. Acrylic paints can be cleaned with a light brush or cloth soaked in soap and water. Oil paints require white spirit or turpentine to clean as they can be damaged by water. Keep an eye on your mural for specks of dirt and dust, which are bound to happen even if you keep the room spotless. Light mural cleaning is recommended at least once a year, but you can confirm with your painting company or artist with their preference based on the combination of materials they used. Sometimes a mix of degreaser, bleach, and primer ⁵ can be used to get dirt, mold, or mildew off. However, you may want to call your painter back in to assist with maintenance, just in case. They may charge $50 to $100 per hour of maintenance.

Hand-Painted Wall Murals vs Spray-Painted

Graffiti artists are in high demand for their unique, modern features. Their smart street style can be used to make a meaningful mural that stands out. Creating art with an aerosol is a rare talent and it will cost more than a traditional mural. A low-detail mural that includes one or two colors of traditional graffiti will cost about $30 per sq.ft. A medium-detail mural that includes full color graphics will cost about $50 per sq.ft. A high-detail mural that includes photorealism will cost about $75 per sq.ft.

When comparing the two options, the same project with a medium level of detail would cost about $20 to $30 per sq. ft. for hand painting, while spray painting the wall would cost $35 to $70 per sq. ft. The spray painting would give off a more trendy vibe, much like street art, compared to a more traditional feel with hand painting. Spray painting is more commonly seen outdoors, but it can be incorporated indoors, while hand-painted murals are more versatile and frequently used both in and out of the house. Keep in mind that it’s easier to find someone to install a hand-painted wall mural than locate a talented spray paint artist who can do your mural, which explains the higher costs.

Indoor Wall Murals vs Outdoor

There are several differences between outdoor and indoor murals. An outdoor mural will be exposed to the elements and need to be protected accordingly. It is important to make sure the surface is in good shape before painting the mural, as this will help protect it in the long run. When the mural is finished, it will need to be sealed. Professional sealing will cost about $2 per sq.ft. The artist will also need to be mindful of choosing paints that are made for use outdoors, on potentially porous surfaces, and which are resistant to fading in sunlight.

Although outdoor murals take more prep work and need to be sealed, they are often not as detailed as indoor murals. Even though an outdoor mural will likely be larger and cover more area, it may not necessarily cost more than an indoor mural. An exception would be an outdoor mural using spray paint; this type of mural does cost more. If an outdoor mural is sealed properly, it will not need much additional maintenance. The exception, however, is if the outdoor mural is in a public place–then it is a good idea to regularly check for graffiti and remove it if necessary. Most companies generally offer similar pricing of $20 to $50 per square foot for indoor and outdoor murals. Some charge $50 to $100 per hour of work, but the final costs depend on the size, materials, and specific design concepts.

Wall Mural vs Wallpaper

Wall murals and wallpapers are two great ways to decorate walls, but they require a different level of work for each project. Wall murals are great because you can completely customize them with a low, medium, or high level of intricacy and an endless array of colors. They are also unique and eye-catching. They set your house apart from others on the block. The main downside of wall murals is the amount of work required to prepare the wall and install the mural. Unless you’re just painting a few coats of solid colors, wallpaper is easier and cheaper to install in most cases. Unlike paint, wallpaper does not chip or peel.

A 200 sq. ft. medium-level wall mural costs $4,000 on average for materials and labor, while wallpaper rolls covering around 58 sq. ft. cost $30 to $50 a roll. To cover the same 200 sq. ft. room, you would need four rolls of wallpaper, which would cost you between $120 and $200, plus labor costs of $25 to $90 per hour, for a total of $300 to $1,200 depending on the wallpaper and the installation contractor you choose. In comparison, painting four walls in solid colors is more on par with wallpaper, around $320 to $500.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Mural Sealant and Preservation

Outdoor murals definitely need a sealant applied to protect the painting from the elements. There are cases when an indoor mural could also benefit from a sealant or protective top coat. For example, if the mural will be in a very sunny location or if people or objects might regularly brush up against the mural. Expect to pay an additional $1-$2 per sq.ft. for the application of a sealer or clear coat.

Textured Wall Mural

Texture may be added to the paint to create dimension and character. An artist may use this technique to accentuate certain parts of the mural. The artist will either purchase premixed textured paint or packages of powdered texture to add to regular paint. Pre-mixed textured paint starts at about $50 per gallon and powdered texture starts at about $5 per 10 ounces. This can create the look of stone, sand 1, or other faux finish. This is a popular method used in trompe l’oeil murals.

UV Blocking Glass Windows

Depending on the position of your mural, the painting company may suggest installing UV blocking glass windows, which can prevent excessive exposure to sunlight. These window coatings are an extra layer of protection, made from sun-resistant materials that minimize how much sunlight and UV rays enter the room. If you have a mural facing any windows, it may be worth investing in UV blocking glass windows, which average $50 to $100.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Stage: (Also known as Scaffolding) A temporary structure used during construction/maintenance/painting projects to raise and support workers (or one worker), required materials, and equipment

² Drywall: Type of plasterboard, commonly used to build walls and ceilings, composed of gypsum that is layered between sheets of heavy paper

³ Plaster: A paste composed of sand, water, and either lime, gypsum, or cement, which forms a smooth hard surface on walls, ceilings, and other structures upon drying

⁴ Stucco: A type of durable plaster finish made of aggregates, a binder, and water (traditionally Portland cement, sand, and water) used on masonry, walls, ceilings, and decorative moldings

⁵ Primer: Preparatory coat applied to materials (drywall, wood, metal, etc.) before painting to ensure paint adhesion, extend paint durability, and help seal and protect the surface to be painted