How much does a Painter make?
Painters play a vital role in creating beautiful and functional spaces. They work in various settings, from homes to commercial buildings. The average yearly salary for a painter is around $45,287. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of work they do.
Painters often start with lower earnings, but as they gain experience, they can see their salary increase. For example, those in the top 10% of earners make over $72,000 per year. Factors like working in a high-cost area or specializing in complex projects can also boost earnings. Many painters find satisfaction in their work, knowing they contribute to making spaces look great and feel welcoming.
What are the highest paying cities for a Painter?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $75,227
In San Francisco, a city known for its vibrant culture, working as a painter offers many opportunities. The tech boom and construction projects create a steady demand for skilled painters. Companies like Gensler and DPR Construction often seek professionals for their projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $61,484
Los Angeles provides a dynamic environment for painters. The city's film industry and extensive residential areas mean there is always a need for painting services. Firms like AECOM and Clark Construction Group frequently hire painters for their diverse projects.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $59,025
San Jose, a hub for technology and innovation, offers many opportunities for painters. The tech industry's growth leads to numerous construction and renovation projects. Companies like AECOM and Clark Construction often look for skilled painters.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $58,749
In Washington, DC, working as a painter means being part of a historic and ever-evolving city. The government sector and numerous renovations create a steady demand for painters. Firms like AECOM and Clark Construction Group often seek professionals for their projects.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $58,640
Santa Rosa offers a balanced lifestyle for painters, with a mix of residential and commercial projects. The city's growth and focus on maintaining its charm provide steady work. Local companies often hire painters for their diverse needs.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $58,511
Seattle's vibrant and dynamic environment offers many opportunities for painters. The city's tech industry and extensive residential areas mean there is always a need for painting services. Companies like AECOM and Clark Construction Group frequently hire painters.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $57,824
Sacramento provides a steady demand for painters due to its growing population and numerous construction projects. The city's blend of urban and suburban areas offers diverse opportunities. Local firms often seek skilled painters for their projects.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $57,705
Boston offers a rich history and diverse opportunities for painters. The city's historic architecture and modern developments create a steady demand for painting services. Companies like AECOM and Clark Construction Group often hire painters.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $57,049
Providence offers a mix of historic charm and modern growth, providing many opportunities for painters. The city's focus on preserving its heritage and developing new areas creates a steady demand for painting services. Local firms often seek skilled painters.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $56,584
Albany provides a mix of historic and modern opportunities for painters. The city's government sector and residential areas mean there is always a need for painting services. Local companies often hire painters for their diverse projects.
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What are the best companies a Painter can work for?

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CollisionRight
Average Salary: $120,091
CollisionRight offers exciting opportunities for Painters. They focus on vehicle repair and restoration. Painters work in various locations across the United States, ensuring high-quality finishes on cars.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $73,080
Boeing provides Painter jobs with a focus on aerospace. Painters work in locations like Seattle, Washington, and other key areas. They contribute to the finishing touches on aircraft.
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CarMax
Average Salary: $61,818
CarMax offers Painter jobs in automotive retail. Painters work in multiple locations across the country. They ensure vehicles look their best for customers.
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Broward County Public Schools
Average Salary: $60,673
Broward County Public Schools provides Painter jobs for school facilities. Painters work in Broward County, Florida. They help maintain and improve school environments.
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Rent Ready
Average Salary: $59,138
Rent Ready offers Painter jobs for rental properties. Painters work in various locations. They ensure rental units are ready for tenants.
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Gillmann Services
Average Salary: $57,176
Gillmann Services provides Painter jobs for commercial and residential properties. Painters work in multiple locations. They focus on high-quality finishes for clients.
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JLL
Average Salary: $56,658
JLL offers Painter jobs in commercial real estate. Painters work in various locations. They contribute to the aesthetic appeal of commercial spaces.
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CBRE
Average Salary: $56,207
CBRE provides Painter jobs for commercial properties. Painters work in multiple locations. They ensure properties meet high standards.
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Handyman Connection
Average Salary: $56,096
Handyman Connection offers Painter jobs for residential properties. Painters work in various locations. They focus on delivering quality painting services to homeowners.
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CertaPro Painters
Average Salary: $55,786
CertaPro Painters provides Painter jobs for residential and commercial properties. Painters work in multiple locations. They specialize in interior and exterior painting.
How to earn more as a Painter?
Painters can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining specialized skills can lead to higher-paying jobs. This includes mastering techniques like stucco application, faux finishes, or commercial painting. Second, obtaining certifications can boost credibility and open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Look for certifications from recognized organizations such as the National Paint Contractors Association. Third, building a strong portfolio showcases your best work and can attract clients willing to pay more for quality. Fourth, networking with other professionals can lead to referrals and larger projects. Finally, investing in quality tools and materials can improve efficiency and the quality of your work, leading to higher pay.
Another way to earn more as a painter involves expanding your service offerings. Many painters limit themselves to residential work, but offering commercial services can significantly increase income. Commercial projects often pay more and offer more stability. Additionally, expanding into related services like drywall repair or stain removal can provide extra income. Painters who take the time to learn about these additional services can command higher rates. Finally, maintaining a professional image and providing excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and higher-paying contracts. A reputation for reliability and quality work can make a big difference in earning potential.
Here are some key factors to consider for increasing earnings as a painter:
- Gain specialized skills and certifications.
- Build a strong portfolio to showcase your work.
- Network with other professionals for referrals.
- Invest in quality tools and materials.
- Expand service offerings to include commercial and related services.



