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Construction & Trades · California

How to Become a Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons in California

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons in California earn a median salary of $45,730/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.3%. After taxes and rent, a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons takes home approximately $1,734/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$46K
Median salary in California
+20%
vs. national average
2.3%
State income tax
1,920
Employed in California

What a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons can afford in California

Gross annual salary$45,730
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.3% state tax)$3,146/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home44.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$45,730/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,734/mo

Becoming a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in California

1

Meet education requirements

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masonss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 1,920 helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$58K$27.67/hr70
Vallejo$51K$24.51/hr30
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$47K$22.75/hr200
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$46K$21.99/hr580
Modesto$44K$21.22/hr50
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura$44K$20.98/hr40
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$43K$20.9/hr190
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$43K$20.73/hr350
Fresno$43K$20.53/hr30

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$40K
Median (50th)
$46K
75th percentile
$51K
90th percentile (senior)
$58K
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Full helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons salary breakdown in California
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After federal + 2.3% state tax
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Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons make in California?

The median helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons salary in California is $45,730 per year ($21.99/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $38,140. Salaries range from $37,570 to $58,040.

What are the requirements to become a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in California?

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $45,730, a helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in California would take home approximately $3,146/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in California?

The highest paying metro areas for helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($57,550), Vallejo ($50,970), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($47,320). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.3%. On a $45,730 salary, this means roughly $1,034/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.