How Much Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in Cary? (2026 Table)
Real cost ranges for popcorn ceiling removal in Cary, NC — by square footage, DIY vs. pro, and what drives the price up.
Prices in Cary typically land between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot for professional removal, scrape, and finish. Here is the honest range by project size:
The short version
- Professional popcorn ceiling removal in Cary typically runs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot for removal, scrape, and finish.
- A 500 sq ft ceiling costs $500–$1,000 in DIY materials versus $750–$1,750 professionally, and 1,000 sq ft runs $1,000–$2,000 DIY versus $1,500–$3,500 professional.
- At 1,500 sq ft the ranges are $1,500–$3,000 DIY and $2,250–$5,250 professional, and at 2,000 sq ft they are $2,000–$4,000 DIY and $3,000–$7,000 professional.
- Asbestos testing adds $100 to $300 for homes built before 1980, and testing is the first step in any removal plan for a pre-1980 ceiling.
- Painted texture, ceiling height, and whether the finish is a smooth skim or a new light texture are the factors that push the price upward.
| Project size | DIY (materials) | Professional (all-in) |
|---|---|---|
| 500 sq ft | $500 – $1,000 | $750 – $1,750 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $1,000 – $2,000 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $1,500 – $3,000 | $2,250 – $5,250 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $2,000 – $4,000 | $3,000 – $7,000 |
From our Popcorn Extraction Masterclass deck
What moves the number: asbestos testing ($100–$300) if the home predates 1980, painted texture (slower wet scrape), ceiling height, and whether you want a smooth skim finish or a new light texture. Get the full cost guide or price your exact room with our materials calculator.