Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Washington, DC — Costs $1,752 to $10,511
What does popcorn ceiling removal cost in Washington? Average $5,256, ranging $1,752–$10,511. Labor runs $56.18/hr locally — 75% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.
Washington, DC Market
+75% vs nationalLabor Rate
$56.18/hr
Material Index
147
Avg Permit Cost
$2,983
Median Home Price
$630,092
As one of the largest metros in District of Columbia, Washington 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 75% above the national average, Washington is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $630,092, this popcorn ceiling removal represents just 0.8% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.
Low Estimate
$1,752
National: $1,000
Mid-Range
$5,256
National: $3,000
High End
$10,511
National: $6,000
Per Sq Ft
$4
National: $2
Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Calculator for Washington
Adjusted for Washington's labor rate ($56.18/hr) and material costs (index 147).
Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.
Estimated Total in Washington
$5,256
Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Washington market rates.
Local Cost Breakdown
At Washington's average rate of $56.18/hr (87% above national avg)
Material cost index 147 (47% above national baseline of 100)
Popcorn Ceiling Removal vs. Home Value in Washington
| Metric | Washington | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Popcorn Ceiling Removal (Mid-Range) | $5,256 | $3,000 |
| Median Home Price | $630,092 | $350,000 |
| Project as % of Home Value | 0.8% | 0.9% |
| Estimated ROI | 50% | 50% |
| Median Household Income | $103,074 | $75,000 |
What Affects the Price in Washington
- 1Local labor rates ($56.18/hr in Washington)
- 2Material cost index (147 vs national 100)
- 3Room count
- 4Asbestos testing
- 5Ceiling condition
- 6Height
Popular Upgrades
- Smooth finish
- Knockdown texture
- Coffered ceiling
Other Projects in Washington, DC
Attic Conversion
$93,031
Basement Finishing
$74,304
Basement Finishing
$58,497
Wine Cellar Construction
$50,140
Second Story Addition
$334,267
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction
$250,700
Room Addition
$150,420
Home Addition
$132,096
Planning a Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Washington
A popcorn ceiling removal typically doesn't require a permit in Washington, 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 Washington, skilled contractors charge an average of $56.18/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.
With a median household income of $103,074, many Washington residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $5,256 represents 5% of the typical household's annual income.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal — National Guide
See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.
All Construction Costs in Washington
View labor rates, material costs, and project estimates for Washington, DC.
Explore All Project Cost Guides
Compare costs across 120+ home improvement projects in 3,636 cities nationwide.
View All Project Costs