Painter Careers & Salary Information
Painters apply paint, stain, and coatings to buildings, walls, and other surfaces. While entry barriers are low, experienced painters with specialization in commercial or industrial coatings earn competitive wages.
National Salary Overview
Painter Specialties
Painters can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Commercial Painter
Paints interiors and exteriors of commercial buildings, often using spray equipment and working with general contractors. Steadier work and better pay than residential.
Industrial Painter
Applies protective coatings, fireproofing, and specialty paints in industrial settings like refineries, bridges, and tanks. The highest-paid painting specialty.
Residential Painter
Paints houses and apartments inside and out. Lower barrier to entry but also lower pay compared to commercial and industrial work.
Drywall Finisher/Painter
Applies joint compound and texture to drywall before painting. Combines taping and painting skills for a versatile career.
Explore Painter Topics
Painter Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Painter salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level painters typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level painters in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union painters earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified painter depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Painter work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified painters have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a painter's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.