How much does a exterior painting cost in Waukegan, IL?

The average exterior painting in Waukegan, IL costs $5,286 in 2026. Costs range from $2,115 for a basic project to $12,687 for a high-end renovation. Waukegan is 6% more expensive than the national average of $5,000.

What is the labor rate for contractors in Waukegan?

The average contractor labor rate in Waukegan, IL is $32.35/hour, compared to the national average of $30/hour. For a exterior painting, labor typically accounts for 45% of the total cost, which is approximately $2,379 in Waukegan.

Are materials more expensive in Waukegan?

Waukegan has a material cost index of 104 (national average = 100). Materials cost about 4% more than the national average. For a exterior painting, materials account for 55% of the cost, approximately $2,907.

Do I need a permit for a exterior painting in Waukegan?

Yes, a exterior painting typically requires building permits in Waukegan, IL. The average permit cost in Waukegan is $920. Always confirm requirements with the Waukegan building department before starting work.

Is a exterior painting a good investment in Waukegan?

A exterior painting provides an estimated 60% ROI nationally. In Waukegan, where the median home price is $234,533, this project costs about 2.3% of your home value. This is a small percentage of home value, making it a relatively low-risk improvement.

Exterior Painting in Waukegan, IL — Costs $2,115 to $12,687

What does exterior painting cost in Waukegan? Average $5,286, ranging $2,115–$12,687. Labor runs $32.35/hr locally — 6% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Waukegan, IL Market

+6% vs national

Labor Rate

$32.35/hr

Material Index

104

Avg Permit Cost

$920

Median Home Price

$234,533

In a smaller market like Waukegan, Illinois, the pool of contractors specializing in exterior painting may be more limited. Getting 3+ quotes is especially important to ensure fair pricing. Costs in Waukegan run slightly above the national average, though the gap is modest enough that smart material choices and timing can close it. At a median home price of $234,533, homeowners in Waukegan should weigh the project cost (2.3% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.

Low Estimate

$2,115

National: $2,000

Mid-Range

$5,286

National: $5,000

High End

$12,687

National: $12,000

Per Sq Ft

$16

National: $15

Duration: 1-2 weeks

DIY: Medium

Permits: Required

ROI: 60%

Exterior Painting Cost Calculator for Waukegan

Adjusted for Waukegan's labor rate ($32.35/hr) and material costs (index 104).

Project Size: 200 sq ft

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Quality Level

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Waukegan

$5,286

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Waukegan market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (45%)$2,379

At Waukegan's average rate of $32.35/hr (8% above national avg)

Materials (55%)$2,907

Material cost index 104 (4% above national baseline of 100)

Exterior Painting vs. Home Value in Waukegan

Metric	Waukegan	National Avg
Exterior Painting (Mid-Range)	$5,286	$5,000
Median Home Price	$234,533	$350,000
Project as % of Home Value	2.3%	1.4%
Estimated ROI	60%	60%
Median Household Income	$56,099	$75,000

What Affects the Price in Waukegan

1Local labor rates ($32.35/hr in Waukegan)
2Material cost index (104 vs national 100)
3Material quality
4Labor rates
5Project size

Popular Upgrades

Premium materials
Custom design

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Exterior Painting in Other Illinois Cities

Chicago, IL

$6,874

+30%Pop. 2,693,976

Aurora, IL

$5,680

+7%Pop. 180,542

Joliet, IL

$5,412

+2%Pop. 150,362

Naperville, IL

$6,168

+17%Pop. 149,540

Rockford, IL

$5,367

+2%Pop. 148,655

Elgin, IL

$6,069

+15%Pop. 114,797

Springfield, IL

$6,116

+16%Pop. 114,394

Peoria, IL

$5,876

+11%Pop. 113,150

Planning a Exterior Painting in Waukegan

Building permits are typically required for a exterior painting in Waukegan. The average permit fee in this area is $920, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 1-2 weeks from start to finish.

A exterior painting is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Waukegan, skilled contractors charge an average of $32.35/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Waukegan household earning $56,099/year, this project at $5,286 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

Exterior Painting — National Guide

See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.

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