Top Paint Store Chains in the United States
Whether you're a pro contractor or a DIYer, these are the dominant national and regional paint retailers in the U.S.:
Specialty Paint Stores (Pro-Focused)
- Sherwin-Williams – 4,700+ stores. Industry leader. Own brands: Emerald, Duration, SuperPaint, ProClassic. Color ID system, pro discounts, delivery.
- Benjamin Moore – 5,000+ independent dealers (not company-owned). Premium quality: Aura, Regal Select, Natura (zero-VOC). Color portfolio (3,500+ hues).
- PPG Paints – 600+ stores (PPG Paints + Pittsburgh Paints). Strong in commercial/industrial; brands: Timeless, Diamond, Speedhide.
- Kelly-Moore – 150+ stores (West Coast, Texas). Regional powerhouse; AcryShield, EnviroCoat.
- Dunn-Edwards – 150+ stores (SW US). Low-VOC leader; Aristoshield, Suprema.
Home Improvement Big Boxes (DIY + Pro)
- The Home Depot – 2,300+ stores. Exclusive: Behr (premium), Glidden, PPG (select). Paint matching, tool rental, project loans.
- Lowe's – 1,700+ stores. Exclusive: Valspar (Signature, Ultra), HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. Similar services.
Hardware Cooperatives (Independently Owned)
- Ace Hardware – 5,000+ stores. Carries Benjamin Moore, Clark+Kensington (exclusive), Royal. Local service.
- True Value – 4,500+ stores. Carries EasyCare (exclusive), Valspar, Benjamin Moore (some).
- Do it Best – 3,800+ stores. Member-owned; carries multiple brands.
Direct-to-Consumer / Online
- Backdrop – Curated colors, peel-and-stick samples, eco-friendly.
- Clare – Designer-curated, zero-VOC, peel-and-stick samples.
- Samplize – 12×12″ peel-and-stick squares for any brand/color (no tiny chips).
Quick Selection Guide
| Need | Best Bet |
| Pro quality, color matching, delivery | Sherwin-Williams / Benjamin Moore dealer |
| One-stop project shopping (tools, lumber, paint) | Home Depot / Lowe's |
| Local advice, small-town convenience | Ace / True Value |
| Low-VOC / health-focused | Benjamin Moore Natura / Dunn-Edwards / Clare |
| Budget | Behr (HD) / Valspar (Lowe's) / Glidden |
Pro tip: Always buy a sample quart (or Samplize square) before committing gallons—lighting changes everything.