How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior? Plus 5 Colors That Boost Curb Appeal

A fresh coat of paint elevates your home’s appearance and creates a sense of pride every time you pull in the driveway. It’s one of the most impactful ways to protect your home’s exterior, increase long-term value, and make a lasting impression. With those factors in mind, let’s look at what that actually means for homes across Metro Atlanta.

We’re breaking down how much it costs to paint a house exterior in Atlanta, what factors impact that price, and we’re sharing five Sherwin-Williams colors that consistently deliver that head-turning curb appeal. As always, we’ll explain how we approach painting projects at Clark Brothers—with honesty, craftsmanship, and long-term value in mind.

Factors That Affect How Much It Costs to Paint a House Exterior

No two homes—and no two paint jobs—are alike. The total cost to paint your home’s exterior depends on a combination of prep, product, and access. Here’s what drives the numbers:

Size of the Home
Larger homes require more labor and materials. A two-story house with architectural details and trim will take longer and cost more than a single-level ranch.

Paint Quality and Brand
At Clark Brothers, we use Sherwin-Williams paints for a reason—they’re built to withstand Georgia’s heat, humidity, and storms. Premium paint can increase your up-front investment, but it reduces how often you’ll need to repaint.

Labor Costs
In Metro Atlanta, labor rates vary depending on the crew’s experience, licensing, and insurance. We staff trained, fully licensed painters because we believe the job should be done right the first time.

Prep and Repairs
If there’s peeling paint, wood rot, mildew, or caulking that needs to be replaced, expect that to factor into the final price. The more prep required, the higher the labor cost—but it’s essential for durability.

Number of Coats
Most quality paint jobs require two coats for complete coverage and lasting color. A single coat might save you money today but lead to fading or peeling within a few years.

Special Finishes
Accent trims, textured stucco, or bold contrast colors can elevate your home’s look—but they require more time and detail, which increases the price.

Accessibility
Tight landscaping, sloped yards, or homes with three or more stories may require scaffolding or special equipment. That additional setup and safety planning can impact the labor budget.

Seasonality and Demand
Atlanta’s painting season runs nearly year-round, but spring and fall offer the best conditions for curing. Warmer months often bring more demand, which can slightly drive up prices due to scheduling.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior in Atlanta, GA?

In the greater Atlanta area, homeowners typically spend between $1.20 and $2.90 per square foot for a professional exterior paint job, depending on the scope, paint quality, and the level of prep required.

Typical Pricing Breakdown:

Home Size Sq. Ft. Estimated Cost
Small ~1,500 sq. ft. $1,800 – $4,350
Medium ~2,000 sq. ft. $2,400 – $5,800
Large 3,000+ sq. ft. $3,600 – $8,700+

DIY vs. Professional Painting: What to Consider

We get it—there’s always the temptation to save some money and go the DIY route. But painting the exterior of a home is a lot more involved than it looks.

DIY projects often stretch over days or even weeks, especially if you don’t have the right tools or help. And if you’re not comfortable on ladders or dealing with surface prep, mistakes can be costly. Uneven coats, drips, or skipped primer? That can mean a redo—or worse, moisture problems down the road.

Hiring a professional team like Clark Brothers gives you peace of mind. We’re licensed, insured, and trained to work efficiently and safely. We use the right techniques for your siding type and ensure a clean, lasting finish. Plus, our work is backed by a warranty—so you’re not on the hook if anything goes wrong.

Bottom line: DIY might seem like a good idea until it’s not. If you want it done right, we’re here to help.

Top 5 Sherwin-Williams Exterior Paint Colors to Boost Curb Appeal

Over the years, we’ve seen certain colors outperform others when it comes to style, staying power, and resale impact. Here are five Sherwin-Williams colors we often recommend to homeowners who want to create a lasting first impression.

  • Alabaster (SW 7008)
    A soft, warm white that works with nearly any style—from traditional Craftsman to modern farmhouse.
  • Naval (SW 6244)
    A deep, classic navy that adds richness and contrast. Pair it with white or bronze trim for serious wow factor.
  • Repose Gray (SW 7015)
    A versatile, modern gray with just enough warmth to feel inviting, not industrial.
  • Evergreen Fog (SW 9130)
    This green-gray tone blends beautifully with stone, wood, and natural landscaping. Calm and elegant.
  • Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
    A bold, earthy taupe that gives your home a grounded, modern look. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard.

Why Color Matters

Paint does more than beautify—it defines how your home is perceived. The right shade can elevate your home’s character, create visual harmony, and even boost resale value. We help homeowners select colors that reflect their personality while staying timeless and HOA-friendly.

FAQs

Q: How much more does it cost if repairs are needed before painting?
If siding or trim needs to be repaired or replaced, you can expect a 15–25% increase in your estimate. We always provide detailed quotes that include prep and repair so you know exactly what to expect.

Q: Can repainting my home increase its value?
Yes—fresh exterior paint improves perceived value and can increase resale value by 2–5%, especially when neutral, modern colors are chosen.

Q: When’s the best time to paint in Atlanta?
Spring and fall provide optimal conditions—low humidity, milder temperatures, and stable weather. That said, with the right paint formulas, quality work can be done year-round.

Q: Do you offer financing?
We do. Through our partnership with GoodLeap, homeowners can spread the cost of exterior painting over time with flexible, easy-to-apply financing options.

Q: What’s included in Clark Brothers’ painting process?
We handle everything from start to finish: power washing, surface repair, sanding, priming, paint application, and final inspection. We also protect landscaping and hardscapes so your home stays clean and safe.

Conclusion

When you invest in exterior painting, you’re protecting your home, increasing its value, and creating a place that feels right for your family. But that kind of result doesn’t come from cutting corners or rushing through the process.

At Clark Brothers, we approach every project with the same discipline and dedication that we would our own homes. We take the time to understand your vision, recommend the right paint for Georgia’s climate, and deliver results that are built to last. From detailed prep work to a flawless final coat, our team works with precision and transparency at every stage.

We aim to exceed expectations, and we work to earn your trust and deliver a result you’ll be proud of for years. Ready to get started? Request your complimentary inspection today, and let’s bring your home’s exterior to life—on time, on budget, and built to stand the test of time.

Click here for our ultimate guide to improving your home’s exterior.

Note: The pricing estimates shared in this blog are based on general Atlanta-area averages. Your specific project cost may vary depending on factors like prep work, paint selection, and overall scope. We’re happy to provide a personalized quote tailored to your home—just ask!

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About the Author 

Micah Clark

Owner & CEO

Born in Suwanee, GA, I now call Roswell, GA, my home. I’m blessed to be married for over six years and have the joy of raising three boys and a girl. From my early years, construction has been more than just a job; it’s been a passion. There’s nothing quite like the magic of transforming a vision into reality through careful preparation, design, and skilled craftsmanship.

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