Want to give your walls a stylish makeover without the dust, smell, and long drying time of paint? As of 2025, wallpaper has become a popular choice in Indian homes because it’s quick to install, comes in endless designs, and can instantly transform the vibe of any room. From minimalistic textures to bold statement walls, the options are limitless.
But before you dive in, the first question most homeowners ask is: “What is the wallpaper cost per square foot in India, including installation charges?”
In this guide, we’ll break down the wallpaper installation cost in India, compare wallpaper vs paint, and answer common queries like How much does 1 feet wallpaper cost? And is wallpaper costly or paint? By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect, whether you’re refreshing a single feature wall or wallpapering your entire room.
Wallpaper Cost in India (2025) – Quick Overview
In 2025, the average wallpaper cost in India ranges between Rs 50 and Rs 500 per sq. ft., depending on the material, design, and brand. On top of that, you’ll need to factor in installation charges, which usually add Rs 8 – Rs 15 per sq. ft, depending on size and type of wallpaper.
Basic wallpapers (simple patterns, vinyl-based) cost about Rs 50–Rs 100/sq. Ft.
Premium wallpapers (textured, fabric, imported) can go up to Rs 300–Rs 500/sq. ft.
So, if you’re planning to cover a 10 ft x 10 ft wall (100 sq. ft.), the wallpapering cost will be somewhere between:
Now that you know the basic cost range, let’s look at installation charges and other factors that can influence the total wallpapering cost.
Wallpaper Installation Cost in India
Buying the wallpaper is just half the job. Proper installation is equally important for a flawless finish. Unlike paint, wallpaper requires precision in cutting, pasting, and aligning patterns. Poor installation can lead to bubbles, wrinkles, or peeling edges, which not only look bad but also reduce the wallpaper’s life.
On average, wallpaper installation charges in India range from Rs 8 – Rs 15 per sq. ft., depending on:
Room size – Larger areas may get lower per sq. ft. rates.
Wallpaper type – Heavier, textured, or 3D wallpapers take more effort and skill.
Wall condition – If the wall needs extra preparation (putty or primer), the cost goes up.
Flat fee per roll: Some installers, especially for smaller jobs, charge a flat fee of Rs 500 – Rs 1,500 per roll instead of per sq. ft. This can work out cheaper (or costlier) depending on wall size and pattern matching
Minimum service charges: Many contractors charge a lump sum (Rs 1000 – Rs 2,000) for small projects, since the effort of site visits and setup is the same.
Example: Wallpapering a 12×12 room (144 sq. ft.) in the mid-range category may cost around Rs 10,000 – Rs 15,000, including labour and installation materials (adhesive, tools, etc.).
Note: Professional installation ensures your wallpaper lasts longer (5–7 years) and maintains its premium look, so it’s always worth investing in skilled labour.
How Much Does 1 Feet Wallpaper Cost?
This is one of the most common questions asked online. Let’s simplify:
Per sq. ft. cost = Wallpaper price (Rs 50–Rs 500) + Labour cost (Rs 8–Rs 15).
So, 1 sq. ft. wallpaper installation cost = Rs 60 – Rs 515 approx.
Example: A 100 sq. ft. wall using a Rs 120/sq. ft. of wallpaper will cost: 120 + Rs 12 (labour) × 100 = Rs 13,200
How Much Wallpaper for a 10×10 Wall?
A 10×10 wall = 100 sq. ft. Since wallpaper rolls in India usually cover 50–60 sq. ft., you’ll need 2 rolls for one wall.
Budget wallpaper (Rs 60/sq. ft. with labour): Rs 6,000 approx.
Designer wallpaper (Rs 300/sq. ft. with labour): Rs 31,500 approx.
Tip: Always buy an extra 5–10% wallpaper to account for wastage and pattern matching.
How Much Does it Cost to Wallpaper a 12×12 Room?
A 12×12 room has about 4 walls. Assuming 10 ft. height, the total wall area is:
(12+12+12+12) × 10 = 480 sq. ft.
Budget wallpaper (Rs 60/sq. ft. with labour): Rs 28,800 approx. Mid-range wallpaper (Rs 150/sq. ft. with labour): Rs 72,000 approx. Premium wallpaper (Rs 350/sq. ft. with labour): Rs 1.68 lakh approx.
Clearly, the cost depends heavily on the quality you choose.
Wallpaper vs Paint: Which is Costlier?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Is wallpaper costly or paint?”
Wallpaper cost: Rs 60 – Rs 500 per sq. ft. (including installation).
Paint cost (emulsion): Rs 20 – Rs 40 per sq. ft. (including labour).
At first glance, paint is cheaper upfront, which makes it the go-to option for budget-friendly makeovers. However, wallpaper offers luxury aesthetics, unique textures, and premium finishes that paint simply cannot replicate.
When to choose wallpaper: Best for feature walls, bedrooms, dining areas, or living rooms where design and style are the priority.
When to choose paint: Ideal for budget renovations, rental homes, and exterior walls where durability and low cost matter more than design.
Quick Tip: A smart approach is to combine both, use paint for most walls and wallpaper for one accent wall. This way, you control costs while still enjoying the luxury look of wallpaper where it matters most.
While wallpaper cost is usually quoted per sq. ft., the final price you pay can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors. Knowing these helps you plan your budget better and avoid surprises during installation.
Material & Type – Vinyl, fabric, 3D, textured, or imported wallpapers all come with different price tags.
Room Size – Larger rooms naturally require more rolls, though bulk jobs sometimes get lower labour rates.
Design Complexity – Detailed patterns, murals, or wallpapers that need pattern matching often increase wastage and cost.
Labour Expertise – Skilled professionals may charge slightly higher, but they ensure a flawless finish that lasts longer.
Wall Condition – Damp or uneven walls may need extra preparation (putty, primer, waterproofing), which adds to the total expense.
In short, wallpapering costs in India are not just about the per sq. ft. rate; the type of wallpaper, the installer’s skill, and even the condition of your walls can significantly impact the overall budget.
Pros and Cons: Wallpaper vs Paint
Homeowners in India often wonder whether to go for wallpaper or stick with paint. Both have their strengths and trade-offs, and the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and design goals.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Factor
Wallpaper
Paint
Cost
Higher (Rs 60–Rs 500/sq. ft.)
Lower (Rs 20–Rs 40/sq. ft.)
Aesthetic appeal
Premium, luxury, endless designs
Limited, depends on shade/finish
Durability
5–7 years (longer if high-quality)
3–5 years before repainting
Maintenance
Wipe-clean for most vinyl options
Needs repainting for stains
Installation
Quick but needs expertise
Labour-intensive, dusty
In summary, wallpaper is a stylish and premium option best suited for feature walls and modern interiors, while paint remains the budget-friendly, versatile choice for large areas and rental properties.
If your goal is to add style, elegance, and a modern touch to your home, wallpaper is worth the investment. While it costs more than paint, the impact it creates is unmatched. However, if you are on a tight budget or looking for a low-maintenance solution, paint may be the better choice.
Takeaway: For the best balance, go for paint on most walls and wallpaper for accent walls. This way, you control costs while still enjoying the premium look.
Quick Summary
Wallpaper cost in India: Rs 50 – Rs 500/sq. ft. + Rs 8–Rs 15 installation
A 10×10 wall costs: Rs 6,000 – Rs 31,500, depending on wallpaper type
A 12×12 room costs: Rs 28,000 – Rs 1.6 lakh
Wallpaper vs Paint: Wallpaper is costlier than paint but offers superior aesthetics
Best Practice: Use paint for most walls and wallpaper for one or two accent walls
Get Expert Help with Your Home Interiors
Still unsure about the right choice for your home? At Houseyog, we help homeowners estimate construction and interior costs accurately. If you’re planning a renovation or new home project, get in touch for a free consultation or request a custom cost quote.
Found this guide useful? Share it with friends or family who are planning a home makeover; it might save them both money and mistakes!
