Is it cheaper to hire a painter or do it yourself?

It is cheaper upfront to do it yourself than to hire a painter, but true cost depends on time, quality, and long term durability. DIY painting costs only materials, paint, primer, brushes, rollers, tape, drop cloths, which for average 12x12 room is 100 to 300 dollars, versus hiring professional which is 350 to 900 dollars per room. For whole 2000 square foot house interior, DIY materials cost 800 to 2000 dollars versus professional 4000 to 12000 dollars, so DIY saves 3000 to 10000 dollars in labor. However, DIY has hidden costs, you need tools, ladders, time, typically 2 to 4 times longer than professional, risk of mistakes like drips, uneven coverage, poor prep leading to peeling and need to repaint sooner. Professional painter brings expertise in prep, proper priming, even coats, sharp lines, insurance, and warranty, and finishes faster, often in 2 to 4 days for whole house versus 2 weeks DIY. If you have small room, free time, and basic skills, DIY is cheaper and satisfying. If you have high ceilings, exterior, cabinets, or want flawless durable finish and time saving, hiring professional may be cheaper long term because job lasts longer and avoids rework. So immediate cash cheaper is DIY, but value for quality and time often favors professional.