I’ve always had a soft spot for white houses. There’s something so effortlessly beautiful about them—clean, classic, and somehow always in style.
Whether it’s a charming farmhouse with chipped shutters or a modern coastal home that catches the afternoon sun just right, white paint has a way of making a home feel bright, calm, and welcoming.
But if you’ve ever gone down the rabbit hole of choosing the perfect white paint for your exterior… you already know it’s not as easy as it sounds.
What looks like a crisp, clean white in the store might turn yellow in the sunlight or suddenly look gray once it’s on the wall.
I’ve stood in front of more than one house with paint samples taped up, wondering how five different whites could all look completely different. (And wondering why one of them now looks a little… pink?)
That’s exactly why I put this list together. These are 17 of the best white exterior paint colors I’ve come across—ones that really work on a house, in natural light, and through the changing seasons.
Some are warm and creamy, others are cooler and modern, but each one has its own kind of charm.
If you’re dreaming of that bright, beautiful white house look, you’ll find a few great options here that might just be the perfect fit.
Why Choose White Paint Colors for Exterior?
There’s something undeniably timeless about a white house. Whether you’re drawn to the classic charm of a farmhouse, the breezy elegance of a coastal cottage, or the modern minimalism of a sleek architectural build, white just works.
It’s versatile, clean, and creates the perfect backdrop for architectural features, landscaping, and even bold-colored doors or shutters to stand out.
White paint can instantly brighten the appearance of your home, making it feel fresh, crisp, and inviting.
It reflects light beautifully, which is a huge plus in sunny climates or homes that get a lot of natural light throughout the day. A well-chosen white can make a home look more spacious and even elevate its curb appeal.
Another benefit? White never really goes out of style. Unlike trendier colors that come and go, white has staying power. It can lean traditional or modern, warm or cool, soft or sharp—all depending on the undertones and finish you choose.
So if you’re looking for a paint color that feels both classic and current, white is a strong contender.
Plus, with so many variations—from warm creamy whites to cool crisp whites—you can find just the right one to complement your home’s surroundings, style, and lighting conditions.
Tips for Choosing The Best White Paint Colors for Exterior
Not all whites are created equal—especially when it comes to exterior paint. What looks bright and soft inside might end up looking washed out or stark under direct sunlight. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right white paint for your home’s exterior:
1. Understand the Undertones
White paint can have subtle undertones of yellow, beige, gray, blue, or even green. A white with warm undertones (like cream or ivory) can feel inviting and cozy, while a white with cool undertones (like icy blue or soft gray) often looks crisp and clean. Consider the vibe you’re going for, and think about how the undertones will interact with your roof, stone, or brick accents.
2. Test in Natural Light (And at Different Times of Day)
Lighting can dramatically change the way a color looks. A white that feels soft in the morning might turn stark by afternoon. Paint large swatches on different areas of your home and observe them throughout the day. North-facing homes may need a warmer white, while homes drenched in sunlight might benefit from a softer or more muted tone to avoid glare.
3. Coordinate with Fixed Elements
Take note of permanent exterior materials like the roof, stonework, or pathways. These elements often have color undertones that you’ll want to either complement or match. A creamy white may look perfect next to a warm-toned brick, while a cooler white could enhance the look of gray stone.
4. Think About Maintenance
While white paint looks gorgeous, it can also show dirt more easily than darker hues. Opting for a white that’s slightly off-white or has a bit of depth can help mask dirt and age better between washes or repaints.
5. Don’t Rely on the Chip Alone
Paint swatches often look different once they’re up on your exterior walls. The scale and texture of your surface can influence the final look. Always test samples on your actual home and view them in different lighting conditions.
6. Finish Matters
Flat or matte finishes can soften the look of a white and hide imperfections, while satin or semi-gloss finishes will reflect more light and add subtle sheen. For trim and accents, a higher sheen can help define architectural details.
The Best White Paint Colors for Exterior
Here are my 17 favorite white paint colors for the exterior.
1. Benjamin Moore Simply White
Simply White is one of those shades that walks a perfect line between crisp and cozy, which is exactly why it’s been a fan favorite for years.
At first glance, it feels like a classic, clean white—but look a little closer and you’ll notice a subtle warm undertone that gives it a gentle glow.
That warmth comes from a barely-there yellow base that doesn’t feel creamy or buttery—it just keeps the white from feeling too stark, especially in natural light.
What makes Simply White such a great exterior choice is how well it plays with sunlight.
It reflects a ton of light without looking blindingly bright. It feels cheerful, not sterile.
It works beautifully on traditional homes, farmhouses, or even beach cottages—especially when paired with black shutters or natural wood elements.
It’s one of those whites that manages to feel inviting yet fresh, and that balance is what makes it so special.
2. Sherwin Williams Alabaster
Alabaster is hands-down one of my personal favorites for exteriors that need a soft, creamy warmth without tipping too far into beige or yellow.
It’s what I like to call a “gentle white”—it has subtle beige undertones that soften it just enough to create a welcoming, lived-in feel.
You’re not getting a cold, gallery-white here; instead, you’re getting something that feels sun-kissed and calming.
This color really shines on homes with warm brick, stone, or earthy landscaping.
Alabaster has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 82, which means it reflects a good amount of light but doesn’t go overboard.
So it brightens your exterior without looking harsh or washed out in full sun.
It’s particularly popular on farmhouses and cottages, but honestly, it’s versatile enough for modern builds too.
If you’re looking for a white that’s soft without being creamy, and neutral without being flat, Alabaster is a strong contender.
3. Benjamin Moore White Dove
White Dove has that magical mix of softness and sophistication.
It’s technically a warm white, but it has just enough gray in it to keep it from ever feeling too yellow or creamy.
That whisper of gray is what makes it a go-to choice for homeowners who want a timeless white that looks polished and clean, but not sterile.
For exteriors, White Dove works wonders on homes that sit in full sunlight because it doesn’t glare or look too stark.
It pairs beautifully with taupe, charcoal, or even deep greens if you’re adding contrasting shutters or doors.
It has a softness that works especially well on traditional-style homes, but it can also feel modern when paired with sleek materials like black metal or light wood.
It’s classic, elegant, and endlessly versatile.
4. Sherwin-Williams Pure White
If you want a white that feels modern but still has a touch of softness, Pure White might be your match.
It’s one of those shades that seems neutral at first glance, but once it’s on a large surface—like the whole exterior of a home—you can appreciate how subtly balanced it really is.
Pure White is a cool-leaning white with just a kiss of warmth that keeps it from being icy.
It has a very slight undertone of gray and a tiny bit of yellow, which keeps it from falling into the sterile zone.
It’s a fantastic option if you want your house to look bright and crisp but not blinding.
It plays especially well with modern farmhouse styles or homes with clean architectural lines. Pair it with a black roof or dark trim, and you’ve got a truly striking look.
5. Benjamin Moore Oyster
Despite its name, Oyster is more of a soft, greige-toned white.
It’s one of those “almost-white” colors that sits beautifully in that in-between zone—light enough to read white on a home’s exterior, but rich enough to give depth and warmth.
This is a great choice if you’re going for an understated, earthy exterior.
Oyster has gray and beige undertones that ground it, making it an ideal choice for homes surrounded by nature, woodsy landscapes, or muted stonework.
It doesn’t have the brightness of some of the other whites on this list, but that’s exactly what makes it appealing for someone looking for a more organic, grounded white. It feels soft, aged, and timeless.
6. Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
Chantilly Lace is the cleanest, crispest white on this list.
It has virtually no discernible undertones, which is a rare and wonderful thing in the white paint world.
That makes it a true bright white—it’s cool, it’s sharp, and it’s beautifully bright without leaning blue or yellow.
If you’re after a modern, high-contrast look, Chantilly Lace is a winner.
It works especially well on sleek architectural homes, coastal builds, or anywhere you want your white to really pop. It’s also a fantastic companion to bold colors—think navy, charcoal, or black accents.
It does tend to reflect a lot of light, so if your home gets full sun, it can appear very bright—but that’s part of the appeal.
Chantilly Lace is a pure white that delivers maximum impact in the cleanest way.
7. Benjamin Moore China White
China White has a softness that gives it a distinct vintage feel.
It leans toward the creamy side of white, with gentle beige and taupe undertones that make it feel grounded and mellow.
Unlike stark whites, China White feels a little aged in the best possible way—it adds warmth and history to a home’s exterior.
If you’re restoring an older home or just want your house to feel cozy and classic from the outside in, China White might be a perfect choice.
It looks especially beautiful against lush greenery, deep trim colors, or warm-colored roofing materials.
The warmth in this white makes it feel welcoming, and its slightly muted nature helps it stay elegant over time, even as the sun and seasons shift.
8. Sherwin Williams Shoji White
Shoji White is a soft, creamy white with noticeable greige undertones—it sits right at the edge between white and the lightest taupe.
It’s a lovely pick for homeowners who don’t want a bright white but also aren’t ready to commit to a full-on beige exterior.
Shoji White feels natural and serene, making it ideal for contemporary farmhouse styles or homes with wood, stone, or brick accents.
It plays beautifully with both warm and cool colors, depending on what you pair it with, and the softness of the hue means it won’t ever feel too harsh or too flat.
It gives your home that relaxed, inviting vibe—like it’s been there for years and fits perfectly in its surroundings.
9. Benjamin Moore White Heron
White Heron is a delicate, light white with just a whisper of coolness.
It has soft gray undertones that keep it feeling bright without ever going too warm or too stark.
In many ways, White Heron is like a slightly cooler version of White Dove—it still has warmth, but it’s a little more modern and a touch crisper.
This color works beautifully in cooler climates or coastal areas where you want that clean, breezy white that doesn’t feel too cold.
It’s also a fantastic backdrop for bold architectural details—think navy shutters, black metal accents, or wood beams.
It gives a house a quietly elegant look—nothing flashy, just fresh, subtle charm.
10. Benjamin Moore Ballet White
Despite its graceful name, Ballet White isn’t a bright white—it’s more of a soft, muted off-white with strong beige and gray undertones.
It’s perfect for anyone who finds true whites too stark but still wants a light, airy exterior color.
Ballet White reads like a warm hug for your house—it has depth and warmth without being heavy.
It almost behaves like a greige in bright light, which makes it blend beautifully into natural landscapes.
It’s especially flattering on homes with stone or wood accents and looks stunning with darker trim or shutters.
If you want your home to feel warm, welcoming, and timeless, Ballet White is a great choice.
11. Benjamin Moore Eider White
Eider White is one of those chameleon whites that behaves differently depending on the light and the environment around it.
It’s technically a very light gray with just enough warmth to keep it from feeling cold, and there’s a touch of purple undertone that gives it this interesting, almost misty softness.
What’s great about Eider White for exteriors is that it doesn’t scream “bright white”—instead, it whispers it.
It’s perfect if you’re leaning toward a more muted, understated white that still reads clean and elegant.
It looks amazing on modern homes, ranch-style houses, and even stucco builds.
If you want something that stands apart from the crowd but still feels neutral and timeless, Eider White is a unique option worth exploring.
12. Sherwin Williams Greek Villa
Greek Villa has a warmth that feels like late afternoon sunlight—soft, golden, and comforting.
It’s a creamy white with beige undertones, but it manages to stay light and clean rather than veering too yellow.
It’s one of those whites that looks effortlessly beautiful in both full sun and shaded areas.
For exteriors, Greek Villa is a strong choice if you want your home to feel welcoming and warm from the moment someone pulls up.
It complements natural materials like wood, brick, and stone especially well, and it’s lovely with both dark and light trim.
The best part? It feels both classic and fresh—like it could work on a centuries-old farmhouse or a newly built home in the suburbs.
13. Sherwin Williams Snowbound
Snowbound is a clean white with cool gray undertones that give it a modern edge.
It’s crisp without being icy, and that makes it a great fit for those who want a white that reads clean and fresh without coming off as too sterile.
This color works beautifully for exteriors that have sleek architectural lines or minimalist details.
It pairs nicely with darker accent colors like black, navy, or deep charcoal, and it stands up well to strong natural light without reflecting too harshly.
If you want your house to look modern, bright, and pulled together, Snowbound gives you that sharp, tailored look that still feels livable.
14. Sherwin Williams Dover White
Dover White is all about warmth and softness. It’s a creamy white with rich yellow-beige undertones, and it’s probably one of the warmest whites on this list.
It has that old-world, heritage charm that works beautifully on traditional homes or historic-style architecture.
While it might be too warm for someone wanting a bright, clean white, Dover White shines on homes with warm-toned roofing, red brick, or brown stonework.
It gives off a cozy, inviting vibe that feels timeless and lived-in.
It’s one of those colors that looks like it’s always belonged to the house, especially when paired with muted greens, browns, or classic black shutters.
15. Benjamin Moore Cloud White
Cloud White is a warm white that’s incredibly popular—and for good reason. It has just enough yellow to give it a soft, creamy glow, but it’s still light enough to read as a true white on the exterior of a home.
It’s one of those shades that seems to suit nearly every style of house.
What makes Cloud White stand out is its versatility. It doesn’t lean too beige, it doesn’t turn too cool, and it holds up beautifully in both bright sun and shadow.
Whether you’re painting a beach cottage, a colonial, or a Craftsman, Cloud White has that flexible, go-anywhere appeal. It’s not too stark, not too warm—it’s just… right.
16. Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White
Decorator’s White is a bright, cool-toned white with subtle blue-gray undertones. It’s crisp, modern, and definitely on the cooler end of the spectrum.
If you’re looking for a clean and minimalistic white for your exterior, this one brings that sleek sophistication.
This white works especially well for coastal homes, contemporary builds, or any place where you want your white to look sharp and fresh.
One thing to keep in mind is that in certain lights, especially in the shade, it can lean a little gray or even slightly blue. But that’s part of its charm—it feels elegant, sharp, and undeniably modern.
17. Behr Ultra Pure White
If you’re looking for the brightest, most brilliant white out there, Ultra Pure White by Behr takes the crown.
This is Behr’s truest white with no discernible undertones—it’s white in the purest sense of the word. That clarity makes it a popular pick for homeowners who want a clean, bold exterior that really pops.
Ultra Pure White reflects a ton of light, so it’s best suited for homes that don’t already sit in blinding full sun all day long. If your house is nestled among trees or needs a lift in curb appeal, this white can really energize the whole exterior.
It pairs beautifully with black, navy, or bold front door colors, and it’s a go-to for modern or transitional homes that want a fresh, contemporary vibe.