Wallpaper removal cost: what pros charge in 2026
Short answer: wallpaper removal typically costs about $1 to $5 per square foot, or $400 to $1,200 per room, around $800 on average (Inch Calculator). Old paper with strong glue, or paper hung over unprimed drywall, takes longer.
National figures from the sources listed at the bottom. Local prices vary; use them as a starting point.
What it costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Per sq ft | $1–$5 |
| Per room | $400–$1,200 (average $800) |
| Stripping, per sq ft | $0.75–$1.75 |
| Steaming, per sq ft | $1–$2 |
| Saturate and scrape, per sq ft | $3–$10 |
Related: cost to paint a room.
Handyman or licensed pro?
Wallpaper removal is handyman and painter work. Paper from before the 1980s can hide hazardous materials in old layers, so test if you suspect it. Rules vary by state; see handyman license requirements by state.
How to quote it
- Peel a test corner before quoting to see how the glue behaves.
- Quote removal, wall repair, primer and paint as separate lines.
- Add a day rate line for surprises like torn drywall paper.
More prices in the handyman price list.
Sources
Questions
How much does it cost to remove wallpaper?
About $1 to $5 per square foot, or $400 to $1,200 for a typical room.
Is wallpaper removal included in painting quotes?
Usually not. Ask for removal, wall repair, primer and paint as separate lines.
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