Painting in Chicago, Illinois

Best Painting Companies in Chicago

Chicago (population about 2.7 million) has a competitive market of painting companies serving the wider Illinois area. Comparing providers on ratings, reviews, licensing, and price is the best way to find a professional who fits your project and your budget.

Chicago at a glance

Population
2,664,452
County
Cook County
Size in Illinois
#1 largest city

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Vintage 2023 Population Estimates (POPESTIMATE2023)

What painting labor costs near Chicago

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metro median
$61,740/yr

That's the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metro-area median for Painters, Construction and Maintenance, 25% above the national median. Because labor is the biggest line item in most paintingjobs, it's a strong signal of what you'll pay to hire in Chicago.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2025 · metro-area estimate · Painters, Construction and Maintenance (SOC 47-2141)

Permits & licensing in Chicago

Building permits in Chicago are issued locally — confirm what your project needs with the Cook County or Chicago building department before work starts. Contractor licensing is handled at the state level; Illinois has no statewide general-contractor license, so check the Illinois (general contracting is licensed locally; plumbers via IDPH) and local rules.

Licensing infoIllinois (general contracting is licensed locally; plumbers via IDPH)

Top-Rated Painting Companies in Chicago

Below are highly rated painting companies serving Chicago and the surrounding area. Compare providers, request quotes, and find the right professional for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do painting services cost in Chicago?
Painting pricing in Chicago depends on the scope of your project, materials, and the provider you choose. Because Chicago is part of the Illinois market, local labor rates play a big role — always compare at least three written quotes from Chicago-area companies before hiring.
Are painting contractors in Chicago licensed and insured?
Licensing and insurance rules for painting work are set at the Illinois state and local level. Before hiring any Chicago painting company, confirm it holds the proper Illinois license, carries liability insurance, and can provide local references.
How do I find the best painting company in Chicago?
Compare provider ratings, read what past customers liked and disliked, verify licensing, and request written quotes from several Chicago-area companies. The list above ranks top-rated painting providers serving Chicago and the surrounding region.