Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Houston, TX — Costs $1,161 to $6,965

What does popcorn ceiling removal cost in Houston? Average $3,483, ranging $1,161–$6,965. Labor runs $35.61/hr locally — 16% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Houston, TX Market

+16% vs national

Labor Rate

$35.61/hr

Material Index

110

Avg Permit Cost

$1,086

Median Home Price

$305,583

As one of the largest metros in Texas, Houston has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 16% above the national average, Houston is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. The median home in Houston is valued at $305,583, putting this project at about 1.1% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 50% ROI.

Low Estimate

$1,161

National: $1,000

Mid-Range

$3,483

National: $3,000

High End

$6,965

National: $6,000

Per Sq Ft

$2

National: $2

Duration: 2-4 days
DIY: Medium
Permits: Not Required
ROI: 50%

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Calculator for Houston

Adjusted for Houston's labor rate ($35.61/hr) and material costs (index 110).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Houston

$3,483

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (70%)$2,438

At Houston's average rate of $35.61/hr (19% above national avg)

Materials (30%)$1,045

Material cost index 110 (10% above national baseline of 100)

Popcorn Ceiling Removal vs. Home Value in Houston

MetricHoustonNational Avg
Popcorn Ceiling Removal (Mid-Range)$3,483$3,000
Median Home Price$305,583$350,000
Project as % of Home Value1.1%0.9%
Estimated ROI50%50%
Median Household Income$47,358$75,000

What Affects the Price in Houston

  • 1Local labor rates ($35.61/hr in Houston)
  • 2Material cost index (110 vs national 100)
  • 3Room count
  • 4Asbestos testing
  • 5Ceiling condition
  • 6Height

Popular Upgrades

  • Smooth finish
  • Knockdown texture
  • Coffered ceiling

Planning a Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Houston

A popcorn ceiling removal typically doesn't require a permit in Houston, which simplifies planning. However, always confirm with the local building department before starting, especially for structural changes. Expect the project to take 2-4 days to complete.

A popcorn ceiling removal is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Houston, skilled contractors charge an average of $35.61/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

In Houston, where the median household income is $47,358, a $3,483 project requires careful budgeting. Look into home improvement loans, HELOC options, or local grants that may be available in Texas.

Explore All Project Cost Guides

Compare costs across 120+ home improvement projects in 3,636 cities nationwide.

View All Project Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators