School mural costs: 5 inspiring designs that show murals are worth it.

You're exploring ways to transform your school's environment, and murals keep coming up in conversation. But before you commit to a project, you need to know: what will a school mural actually cost?

The straightforward answer is that school murals typically range from $550 to $750 per sqm, depending on the size, complexity, location, and condition of the wall. However, like most investments in your school's infrastructure, the real value lies in understanding what drives these costs and the long-term benefits they deliver.

What influences school mural pricing?

Several key factors determine the final cost of your wall mural project:

Size and surface area 

The most obvious cost driver is the wall space you want to cover. A small interior mural (10-15 square metres) will naturally cost less than a large exterior wall spanning multiple building sections. Most schools find that impactful murals start around 30-50 square metres to create the visual presence they're looking for.

Design complexity 

Simple geometric patterns cost less than detailed landscapes or intricate cultural artwork. You'll also need to choose between painted and vinyl murals. Painted murals offer superior durability and anti-graffiti protection, while vinyl provides a more cost-effective option for temporary installations.

Surface preparation 

Older school buildings often need additional prep work before painting can begin. This might include cleaning, priming, or addressing surface irregularities. Exterior walls typically require more preparation than interior surfaces.

Location and accessibility 

Ground-level interior walls are straightforward to access, while high exterior walls may require scaffolding or specialised equipment, adding to project costs. Exterior locations also demand weather-resistant materials and may need additional surface preparation due to environmental exposure.

5 inspiring school murals that prove value beyond cost

Let's examine five outstanding school mural projects that demonstrate why schools consistently find murals worth the investment:

East Hills Boys High School

This striking blue mural transforms an entire building wall with white line art depicting native animals, including sea creatures like sharks, fish, octopus, and turtles, alongside land animals like kangaroos. The school crest takes centre stage, surrounded by clean, indigenous-inspired designs that celebrate the area's diverse natural environment.

The result? Students connect with their local ecosystem while building school pride through shared identity. The large scale creates a strong visual impact and reinforces the school's brand.

Kingsgrove High School

This mural transforms an entire building facade into a tranquil forest scene. Featuring towering eucalyptus trees with detailed bark textures, native vegetation, and a white cockatoo, the artwork creates a natural environment that surrounds students with Australian bushland.

The large-scale artwork covers multiple classroom windows and extends across a substantial building section. Students experience a connection to nature within the urban school environment, fostering environmental awareness and appreciation for Australia's unique landscapes.

Ready to explore whether wall murals will work for your school? Read our post on 3 reasons why school murals are worth the investment.

Hoxton Park High School

This powerful commemorative mural combines historical education with artistic innovation. Featuring realistic portraits of WWI soldiers against a dramatic sunset backdrop, the piece incorporates indigenous inspired patterns.

For a co-educational high school welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and learning needs, this mural serves as a unifying element that brings everyone together around shared Australian values of respect and remembrance.

Bossley Park Public School

Bossley Park Public School commissioned two complementary murals. The first acknowledges the Cabrogal clan of the Dharug Nation with warm earth tones, traditional dot painting, and a portrait of an Aboriginal elder. The second honours ANZAC service with detailed soldier portraits, battlefield scenes, and poppy fields.

Together, these murals create a comprehensive narrative about Australian identity, demonstrating cultural awareness while teaching historical respect. The sophisticated execution required significant planning and professional expertise, but the result speaks to every member of the school community.

St Luke's Catholic College, Marsden Park

This extensive mural installation spans multiple corridors and areas throughout the school. The science corridors feature murals that cover biology, astronomy, and chemistry. Separately, the sports hall displays athletic silhouettes with motivational messaging like "Hard Work Beats Talent When Talent Doesn't Work Hard."

The project demonstrates how murals can create a comprehensive learning environment across multiple floors and corridors. Meanwhile, the consistent colour scheme unifies different subject areas into one cohesive educational experience.

Getting the most value from your mural investment

These examples show that effective murals for schools aren’t just decoration. They serve as:

• Educational tools that reinforce curriculum topics.

• Cultural bridges that respect diverse backgrounds and build unity.

• Identity markers that strengthen school pride and belonging.

• Conversation starters that engage students, staff, and visitors.

• Long-term assets that continue delivering value for years.

When evaluating mural costs, consider the daily impact on students over the mural's 10-15 year lifespan. 

Planning your school mural project

Start by identifying your goals: Do you want to celebrate local culture? Reinforce school values? Create a welcoming entrance? Your objectives will guide design decisions clearly.

Wall murals for schools represent an investment in your culture, student pride, and community identity. When planned thoughtfully and executed professionally, they deliver value that extends far beyond their initial cost.

Ready to explore options for your school? Download our Education brochure to learn about our comprehensive approach to school signage solutions.