Paint Brand Rankings Shifted in 2026 Satisfaction Study
As home project costs rise, consumers are prioritizing product durability and performance in their paint choices.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Interior Decorating
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JD Power has released its 2026 U.S. Paint Satisfaction Study, revealing brand leaders across interior, exterior, and retail categories. The findings reflect feedback from 7,027 customers regarding product performance and value.
Why it matters
Homeowners are increasingly scrutinizing paint performance and review quality to justify rising renovation costs. This shift highlights a market move toward prioritizing long-term durability over initial price as households look to protect property investments.
The study recorded an exterior paint price satisfaction score of 647, a 14-point increase compared to prior findings. Segment averages across the industry now sit at 713 for interior paint, 720 for exterior paint, 699 for exterior stain, and 696 for paint retailers.
The players
Benjamin Moore
A long-standing premium paint manufacturer recognized for its widespread network of independent retailers and professional-grade product lines.
BEHR
A major paint brand known for its long-term partnership with big-box home improvement centers and DIY-friendly product offerings.
Sherwin-Williams
A global leader in the paint and coatings industry that maintains a significant footprint through its company-operated retail store network.
JD Power
A consumer insights firm that provides data-driven research and satisfaction benchmarking for household goods, automotive, and financial services.
The details
Satisfaction is determined by evaluating application ease, coverage, durability, cleaning, and overall value. Retailer rankings are based on staff interactions, service, and the quality of the in-store or online experience. Brands are evaluated by their ability to provide consistent results that meet consumer expectations for performance and features.
Timeline
* Data collection for the study occurred between January 2025 and January 2026.
* The final results were released in 2026.
The Home Front
This study updates the consumer sentiment benchmarks established by the 2025 iteration of the research, confirming a shift in how owners evaluate home-improvement investments. The findings track with broader housing trends where the durability of materials is prioritized during a period of sustained price increases.
When planning your next exterior or interior refresh, compare these segment leaders against your local retailer's current stock and pricing. Use these performance scores as a guide when balancing your budget against the need for a durable, long-lasting finish.
The takeaway
Consumers are increasingly using professional satisfaction data to navigate the rising costs of home maintenance. Check the specific category averages before your next paint purchase to ensure you are getting the best value for your project's needs.
Further reading
For more on choosing high-quality materials for your next project, explore our Interior Decorating guide.
Source note: This article includes information reported by PCI - Paint & Coatings Industry.
Live Poll
Do you rely more on online reviews to guide your spending due to rising product prices?
