One of the most common challenges for artists is determining how much to charge for a mural project. Developing a structure and system will make it much easier for you.

But how do you develop a pricing structure for murals? Simple: follow the example of many of the best muralists. Create a price sheet that lists a rate per square foot, as well as any possible additional charges.

How to create your price sheet:

1 – Determine the price per square foot you will charge for most murals (Most artists charge $30-$50 per square foot. You can charge for the higher price if you are experienced and in high demand. Go for price lower if you are new to wall painting.)

2- Include additional charges to your price per square foot, such as:

  • Please add a design fee to design and draw the artwork (we charge $500 and it is non-refundable)
  • Add an hourly charge if additional work is required to prepare a problem surface (we charge $95/hour)
  • Add $3 – $5 per square foot if the design requested by the client is of great complexity or difficulty.

3 – The price sheet should include a list of what your charges include (travel in the local area, assistant fees, all materials and scaffolding).

4 – The price sheet should include a list of what your charges DO NOT include (travel outside the local area, insurance fees, sketches beyond the first 3 gear sets).

5 – There should be a minimal charge for small murals. We charge a minimum of $5,600.00, even if the mural is very small. This is because the time it takes to paint a small mural is not much less than a larger one.

Once you’ve determined your price, keep in mind that you can change it at any time. If you find that you are charging too little, increase your rate per square foot. If you find your price is too high to keep the business, cut the rates a bit.

When you have a price sheet handy, it’s much easier to have a professional conversation with a prospective client. if they ask “How much do you charge for a mural on the wall?“You can say with confidence, “The rate is $35.00 per square foot (or whatever your charge is) and I can send you a price sheet with additional details if you’d like.“

For a sample mural price sheet, go to How to Price a Mural. You can copy and paste the price sheet into that post and enter your own numbers.

Keep in mind that your client will be happy if you have a price sheet in writing. This tells them that you are professional, and it will give them more confidence in your work.

One final thought on mural price quotes: make sure you get a 50% deposit up front before purchasing the necessary materials. This requirement must also be printed on your price sheet.