How much does a Automotive Painter make?
Automotive painters play a key role in the automotive industry. They use their skills to paint cars, trucks, and other vehicles. The average yearly salary for automotive painters is around $61,212. This means they earn a good income for their work. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific company.
The salary range for automotive painters can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $34,000 a year. The highest 10% earn more than $100,000 annually. Most automotive painters fall in the middle, with salaries ranging from $40,666 to $87,327. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and earning more as one gains experience and skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Automotive Painter?

-
Albany, NY
Average Salary: $103,771
In Albany, skilled painters work with top companies like General Motors and Ford. They focus on creating high-quality finishes for vehicles. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban settings, providing a balanced work environment.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Albany, NY
-
Salem, OR
Average Salary: $85,133
Salem boasts a thriving automotive industry, with companies like Nissan and Toyota. Painters here enjoy a supportive community and a chance to work on cutting-edge vehicles. The city's smaller size offers a close-knit work atmosphere.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Salem, OR
-
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $80,158
Pittsburgh is known for its strong automotive sector, with major employers like U.S. Steel and General Motors. Painters here benefit from a rich history of automotive manufacturing. The city's diverse culture adds to the vibrant work environment.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Pittsburgh, PA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $79,623
Seattle's automotive industry includes prominent companies like Boeing and PACCAR. Painters in this city enjoy a mix of urban and natural beauty. The tech-savvy environment offers opportunities for innovation in automotive finishes.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,394
Los Angeles is a hub for the automotive industry, with companies like Toyota and Honda. Painters here work on a variety of vehicles, from cars to trucks. The city's diverse population adds to the dynamic work culture.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $75,031
San Jose is home to tech giants and automotive companies like Tesla. Painters here have the chance to work on the latest in vehicle technology. The city's innovative spirit creates a forward-thinking work environment.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $74,468
Portland offers a unique blend of urban and natural settings. Painters here work with companies like Subaru and Nike. The city's focus on sustainability influences the automotive industry, offering eco-friendly painting solutions.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Portland, OR
-
Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $71,797
Mobile is a key player in the automotive industry, with major employers like Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz. Painters here enjoy a strong sense of community. The city's coastal location provides a relaxed work atmosphere.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Mobile, AL
-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $71,705
Miami's vibrant culture and strong automotive industry make it an exciting place for painters. Companies like Ford and General Motors are prominent here. The city's warm climate and diverse population add to the lively work environment.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Miami, FL
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $71,429
Denver offers a mix of urban and outdoor settings, with automotive companies like General Motors and Toyota. Painters here enjoy a healthy work-life balance. The city's high altitude and beautiful landscapes provide a unique backdrop for the work.
Find Automotive Painter jobs in Denver, CO
What are the best companies a Automotive Painter can work for?

-
Instant Auto Body
Average Salary: $98,125
Instant Auto Body offers competitive salaries for Automotive Painters. They operate in multiple locations across the country, providing high-quality auto repair services. Their commitment to excellence makes them a top choice for skilled painters.
-
Caliber Collision
Average Salary: $91,243
Caliber Collision is known for its high-paying jobs for Automotive Painters. With numerous locations nationwide, they offer a stable work environment and opportunities for career growth. Painters here benefit from comprehensive training and support.
-
Tesla
Average Salary: $89,746
Tesla offers attractive salaries for Automotive Painters. They have several service centers across the United States. Working at Tesla means being part of a cutting-edge company that values innovation and quality in every detail.
-
Kindle Auto Plaza
Average Salary: $74,667
Kindle Auto Plaza provides competitive pay for Automotive Painters. They have locations in key areas, offering a dynamic work environment. Painters here enjoy a supportive team and the chance to work on the latest vehicle models.
-
DENT WIZARD
Average Salary: $70,537
DENT WIZARD offers good salaries for Automotive Painters. They operate in multiple locations, focusing on high-quality vehicle repairs. Painters here benefit from a collaborative atmosphere and the opportunity to enhance their skills.
-
National Brand
Average Salary: $70,436
National Brand provides fair compensation for Automotive Painters. They have several service centers across the country. Painters here work in a professional environment with opportunities for advancement and skill development.
-
Dealer Tire
Average Salary: $62,651
Dealer Tire offers reasonable salaries for Automotive Painters. They have locations in various regions, providing a steady work environment. Painters here benefit from a supportive team and the chance to work on a variety of vehicles.
-
Music City Recon
Average Salary: $59,531
Music City Recon provides fair pay for Automotive Painters. They operate in select locations, focusing on quality vehicle repairs. Painters here enjoy a collaborative work environment and the opportunity to develop their skills.
-
Gerber Collision & Glass
Average Salary: $57,710
Gerber Collision & Glass offers competitive salaries for Automotive Painters. They have numerous locations nationwide. Painters here benefit from a supportive team and the chance to work on a variety of vehicles.
-
MAACO
Average Salary: $51,672
MAACO provides fair compensation for Automotive Painters. They have several locations across the country. Painters here benefit from a supportive work environment and the opportunity to enhance their skills in a professional setting.
How to earn more as a Automotive Painter?
Automotive painters can increase their earnings through various strategies. Gaining specialized skills can lead to higher pay. For example, mastering techniques like color matching and using advanced spray equipment can set a painter apart. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends also help. Attending workshops and obtaining certifications can enhance a painter's skill set and market value.
Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential. Painters with more years in the field often command higher wages. Building a strong portfolio showcasing a variety of work can attract better-paying jobs. Networking with other professionals and seeking out high-quality job opportunities can also lead to increased earnings. Additionally, working in areas with a high demand for automotive painters can result in better pay. Painters who take the initiative to market themselves and their skills effectively will find more lucrative opportunities.
Here are five factors that can help automotive painters earn more:
- Specialized skills and certifications
- Years of experience in the field
- A strong portfolio of work
- Networking and professional connections
- Location and demand in the area



