Automotive Body and Related Repairers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 155,220 automotive body and related repairers, and they earn a median of $51,680/year. The range runs from $36K to $87K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level automotive body and related repairers start around $36K. The gap between that and the median ($52K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $87K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $63K | 14,670 |
| Connecticut | $61K | 1,430 |
| New Jersey | $60K | 3,970 |
| Alaska | $60K | 290 |
| Minnesota | $60K | 3,190 |
| Hawaii | $60K | 460 |
| Rhode Island | $60K | 950 |
| Massachusetts | $59K | 2,680 |
| South Carolina | $59K | 2,510 |
| Maryland | $59K | 2,380 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a automotive body and related repairers make?▼
The median automotive body and related repairers salary in the United States is $51,680 per year ($25/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,390, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,040.
What education do you need to become a automotive body and related repairers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for automotive body and related repairers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for automotive body and related repairers.
What are the highest paying states for automotive body and related repairers?▼
The highest paying states for automotive body and related repairers are California ($62,570), Connecticut ($60,890), New Jersey ($60,390), Alaska ($60,190), Minnesota ($60,160). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.