Portrait Artist Pricing: How Much Do Custom Portraits Really Cost?

When you hire a portrait artist, a professional who creates custom painted or drawn likenesses of people. Also known as a portrait painter, they turn photos or live sittings into lasting artworks that capture more than just a face—they capture presence. But how much should you expect to pay? And if you’re the artist, how do you set fair prices that actually cover your time, materials, and skill? It’s not just about size or medium. The real cost depends on experience, detail level, turnaround time, and even where you live.

Portrait commission price, the fee a client pays for a custom portrait. Also known as portrait painting cost, it can range from under $200 for a simple pencil sketch to over $10,000 for a large oil painting by a nationally recognized artist. Most artists charge based on hours worked, not just the final product. A beginner might charge $50 an hour for a small acrylic portrait. A seasoned artist with gallery representation could charge $150–$300 an hour for a detailed oil portrait on canvas. Materials matter too—high-quality linen canvas, premium pigments, and varnishes add $100–$500 to the total. And don’t forget the time spent on revisions, reference photo editing, and shipping. Some artists include all that in one flat fee; others break it down. The best ones give you a clear contract upfront.

What else affects the price? Custom portrait pricing, the way artists structure their fees based on client needs. Also known as artist fees, it’s not one-size-fits-all. A single-person portrait in charcoal will cost less than a full family group in oils. A pet portrait? Often cheaper than a human one, but not always—hyperrealistic dog portraits by top artists can hit $3,000. Location plays a role too: artists in big cities like London or New York tend to charge more than those in smaller towns. And if you need it fast? Rush fees are common. Some artists charge 25–50% extra for delivery under two weeks.

There’s no magic formula, but the most successful portrait artists don’t guess their prices. They track their hours, calculate material costs, research local competitors, and adjust for demand. Many use a base rate per inch of canvas or per hour, then add complexity multipliers—like multiple subjects, intricate backgrounds, or special lighting. If you’re buying, ask for a written quote. If you’re selling, don’t undervalue your work. A $400 portrait isn’t just paint on canvas—it’s weeks of focused skill, emotional connection, and craftsmanship.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns, pricing examples from working artists, and honest advice on what to expect when you commission a portrait. Whether you’re looking to hire someone or set your own rates, the posts here cut through the noise and give you the facts you need to make smart decisions.