The Big Budget Question
You’ve been staring at your faded siding every time you pull into the driveway. Maybe the beige that was “so trendy” in 2008 now looks more like oatmeal that sat out too long. Or maybe hail and sun have done their Colorado thing, and your stucco is showing every crack.
You know it’s time to paint. But the question running through your head (and maybe keeping you up at night) is: How much is this going to cost me in 2026?
We get it. Painting your home’s exterior is a big project—it’s not like repainting a guest bathroom over a weekend. The cost can feel overwhelming, especially with prices fluctuating and inflation still on everyone’s mind. At Southern Mesa, we’ve helped countless Colorado Springs homeowners through this same decision. The good news? With the right info, you can walk into this project with confidence.
By the end of this blog, you’ll know:
- The average cost of exterior painting in El Paso County in 2026
- What factors make prices go up or down
- Why paint quality (and prep work!) matter more than most people think
- Budget-friendly alternatives if you’re not ready for the full repaint
Let’s break it down.
What Is the Average Cost of Exterior Painting in 2026?
In Colorado Springs and El Paso County, the average cost to paint a home exterior in 2026 ranges between $3.00–$6.00 per square foot.
Here’s what that looks like:
- Small ranch home (1,500 sq. ft.) → $4,500–$9,000
- Two-story home (2,500 sq. ft.) → $7,500–$15,000
- Large custom home (3,500+ sq. ft.) → $10,500–$21,000+
Why the wide range? Because no two houses are alike. The type of siding, number of stories, prep work, and paint quality all affect the final number.
Breaking Down the Cost Factors Homeowners Overlook
Siding Material
- Stucco: More labor-intensive because of cracks and texture → higher cost.
- Hardie siding: Holds paint well but requires careful prep.
- Wood siding: Needs extra prep and priming (and sometimes repair).
Prep Work
This is where homeowners often underestimate the cost. If your current paint is peeling, cracked, or chalking, we’ll need to scrape, sand, and sometimes patch before we even open the paint can. Think of it like brushing your teeth before whitening strips—you’ve got to prep the surface for best results.
Paint Quality
Yes, the gallon price difference matters. Premium paints like Sherwin-Williams Emerald Rain Refresh may cost $80–$100+ per gallon, while bargain paints run $30–$40. But the premium stuff resists fading, cracking, and dirt (Colorado dust storms, anyone?)—which means you’ll repaint less often.
Fun fact: Behr’s sheens tend to look shinier than most brands. That’s why we always say—ask your painter, don’t just trust the label!
Labor & Access
Two-story homes, tricky rooflines, or lots of trim = more time, more ladders, more labor.
Paint Colors That Increase Home Value in 2026
Since you’re already investing in the project, let’s talk about ROI. Fresh paint can return up to 60–80% of its cost at resale.
Top Colorado Springs color trends for 2026:
- Warm neutrals (beige, taupe, creamy whites)
- Moody greens (perfect for trim or built-ins—we wrote about it here)
- Classic navy or deep charcoal for accents
- Statement doors in black, emerald, or bold red
Colors to avoid? Neon yellow. Just trust us here.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro? (And What It Really Costs)
DIY
- Materials: $800–$1,500
- Tools (ladders, sprayers, safety gear): $300–$800
- Your weekends: 2–3+ (plus sore shoulders for a week)
- Possible Mistakes – $????
Southern Mesa
- Itemized proposal: transparent, down to the dollar
- Consultation: free
- Daily updates so you’re never in the dark
- Cleanup included (no paint splatters on your shrubs)
At first glance, DIY might look cheaper—but once you factor in tools, time, and potential redo costs, hiring pros often saves money in the long run.
Related read: Should You DIY or Hire a Pro in 2025?
How Long Does Exterior Paint Last in Colorado Springs?
Colorado weather is brutal—intense sun, sudden hailstorms, snow, and dry air. That means:
- Cheap paint → 3–5 years
- Mid-range paint → 6–8 years
- Premium paint → 8–10+ years
When you spread the cost over time, premium paint is usually the smarter investment.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Full Exterior Painting
Not ready to tackle the whole house? Here are some ways to freshen things up without breaking the bank:
- Front door refresh: $300–$800
- Shutters & trim only: $1,500–$3,000
- Deck or fence staining: $2,000–$5,000
These smaller updates still boost curb appeal and make your home look “new” from the street.
How Paint Affects Resale Value in Colorado Springs
Realtors consistently rank exterior painting as one of the top ROI projects before listing a home. A home with fresh, neutral paint feels “move-in ready” to buyers, often reducing time on market.
If you’re selling in the next few years, consider freshening up with timeless neutrals. That bold purple trim you love? It may not help your resale.
Southern Mesa’s Approach to Exterior Painting Costs
Here’s what sets us apart in Colorado Springs:
- Transparent pricing: Itemized proposals so you know exactly where your money goes.
- No-charge paint consults: We’ll walk you through our process and can help you pick the right brand, sheen, and color for your home.
- Premium recommendations: Like Sherwin-Williams Emerald Rain Refresh for exteriors.
- Daily updates: So you’re never wondering what happened today.
- Respect: We clean up every day, no mess in your home or yard for kids/pets to get in trouble with!
FAQs: Exterior Painting Costs in 2026
Q: How much does it cost to paint a two-story home in Colorado Springs?
A: Most two-story homes cost between $7,500–$15,000 depending on siding, paint choice, and prep.
Q: Is premium paint worth the extra cost?
A: Yes. Premium paints last longer, resist fading, and save you from repainting every 3–5 years.
Q: Can I paint over old stucco?
A: Yes, but it often requires extra prep, patching, and elastomeric coatings for best results.
Q: How do I choose a finish (matte vs. satin vs. gloss)?
A: Each brand measures sheen differently—there’s no universal standard. That’s why it’s best to consult your painter for the perfect match.
Q: Should I repaint before selling my home?
A: If your paint is more than 5 years old or faded, yes. Fresh paint helps your home stand out to buyers and has the potential to add $$$ to your sale price.
Painting your home’s exterior in 2025 is one of the smartest ways to boost curb appeal and resale value. Yes, it’s an investment—but when you compare the cost to the ROI, it’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re ready for a full repaint or just a front-door refresh, Southern Mesa is here to help you make the right choice for your budget and your home.
Ready to get started? Call us today for your free paint consultation.
