How much does a Automotive Painter make?
Automotive painters work with cars and trucks, making them look new and fresh. Their work includes painting, repairing, and protecting the vehicle's finish. This job pays fairly well. On average, an automotive painter makes about $63,871 each year. This amount can change based on experience and location. The best-paid workers in the field earn up to $108,024 annually, while the least-paid make around $34,803.
Automotive painters can expect different salaries based on where they work. For example, those in the top-paying areas can make more than $101,368 each year. These higher salaries often come from regions with bigger car industries. Painters in other areas may earn less, but they can still make a good living. It is important to consider location when looking at salary data. Different areas offer different pay rates, but all offer good earning potential.
What are the highest paying cities for a Automotive Painter?

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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $101,310
In Albany, one can find a variety of opportunities within the auto industry. With prominent companies such as General Motors, job seekers can expect a stable environment with room for growth. Albany offers a good balance of urban amenities and a lower cost of living.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $83,457
Salt Lake City has a thriving automotive industry, with companies like Toyota and Ford offering numerous job opportunities. The city provides a favorable climate and a welcoming community for those entering the painting field. The quality of life here is high, with many outdoor activities available.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $80,510
San Jose, home to many tech giants, also has a robust automotive sector. Job seekers can find roles with companies like Tesla. The city's dynamic job market and high standard of living make it a great place to build a career.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $79,433
Salem offers a slower-paced lifestyle with opportunities in the automotive industry. Companies such as Honda and Nissan provide stable jobs. The city’s friendly atmosphere and lower living costs make it an appealing choice for job seekers.
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Fayetteville, NC
Average Salary: $79,350
Fayetteland is a hub for military and automotive industries. With employers like Ford Motor Company, job seekers will find a supportive environment. The community is tight-knit, and the cost of living is moderate.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $79,008
Portland boasts a vibrant community with several auto-related job opportunities. Companies like Subaru and Nissan offer promising career paths. The city’s focus on sustainability and green initiatives also aligns well with modern auto industry trends.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $78,464
Denver's thriving economy provides ample opportunities in the automotive sector. Employers like General Motors and Ford are present. The city’s high altitude and stunning mountain views provide a unique work-life balance.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $77,143
Seattle’s strong economy supports a robust job market for automotive painters. Companies such as Boeing and various local garages offer plenty of options. The city’s progressive culture and scenic beauty attract many job seekers.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $76,725
Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and civilian job opportunities. Employers like General Motors and various local garages provide good career options. The city’s picturesque location and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $76,312
Pittsburgh has a rich industrial history with a strong presence in the automotive sector. Companies like United States Steel and various local shops offer many opportunities. The city's lower cost of living and vibrant arts scene make it an attractive option.
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What are the best companies a Automotive Painter can work for?

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DENT WIZARD
Average Salary: $92,528
DENT WIZARD offers excellent opportunities for Automotive Painters. They operate across the United States with locations in major cities. Job seekers can expect competitive pay and comprehensive benefits. They focus on delivering top-notch car repair services, making them a great choice for painters.
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Tesla
Average Salary: $91,891
At Tesla, Automotive Painters enjoy a rewarding work environment. Tesla has multiple locations, including in the United States and internationally. Painters at Tesla are paid well and have the chance to work on cutting-edge electric vehicles. The company values innovation and quality, which translates into attractive salaries.
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instant auto body
Average Salary: $82,300
instant auto body provides a solid career path for Automotive Painters. They have several locations across the United States. Painters at this company can expect to earn a good salary along with competitive benefits. Their focus on customer satisfaction drives their success and satisfaction.
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Caliber Collision
Average Salary: $78,858
Caliber Collision is a well-known company for Automotive Painters, with many locations across the United States. They offer a good salary and benefits package. Painters at Caliber Collision enjoy a stable work environment and the opportunity to work on a variety of vehicles.
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CarMax
Average Salary: $58,601
CarMax operates in numerous locations across the United States. Automotive Painters at CarMax can earn a solid salary. The company is well-known for its automotive sales and services. Painters here will find a supportive environment and plenty of opportunities for growth.
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Sherrod Vans
Average Salary: $57,750
Sherrod Vans is a reputable company for Automotive Painters, with various locations. Painters can expect a reasonable salary and good benefits. The company prides itself on its quality vehicle services and customer satisfaction, making it a good place for painters.
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MAACO
Average Salary: $56,533
MAACO has many locations across the United States. They offer a fair salary for Automotive Painters. The company specializes in auto body repair and painting services. Painters here can expect a supportive work environment and opportunities to develop their skills.
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Rosenbauer
Average Salary: $55,833
Rosenbauer operates several locations and provides good opportunities for Automotive Painters. They offer a competitive salary and benefits. Painters at Rosenbauer will work on various automotive projects, gaining valuable experience in the field.
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Gerber Collision & Glass
Average Salary: $55,250
Gerber Collision & Glass has numerous locations across the United States. Painters here can expect a fair salary. The company is well-known for its quality auto repair services. Painters will enjoy a stable work environment and plenty of career growth opportunities.
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CARVANA
Average Salary: $53,246
CARVANA is a company with several locations offering competitive pay for Automotive Painters. Painters here can expect to earn a good salary and benefits. The company focuses on selling used cars and providing repair services, making it a reliable choice for painters.
How to earn more as a Automotive Painter?
Automotive painters have the opportunity to earn more by enhancing their skills and taking strategic steps. Experience plays a crucial role in this field. As painters gain more experience, they often command higher wages. Continuous learning and practicing different techniques can lead to greater job opportunities and better pay.
Here are key factors that can increase earnings in the automotive painting industry:
- Gaining more experience
- Specializing in high-demand areas like custom paint jobs or luxury vehicle finishes
- Becoming certified through recognized bodies
- Working in areas with higher living costs
- Pursuing further education or training in automotive technology
By focusing on these areas, automotive painters can boost their earning potential significantly. Each step taken towards professional growth opens up new avenues for higher income.



