Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 7,790 insurance appraisers, auto damages, and they earn a median of $76,650/year. The range runs from $57K to $102K. Ohio pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level insurance appraisers, auto damages start around $57K. The gap between that and the median ($77K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $102K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $101K | 120 |
| Washington | $98K | 120 |
| South Carolina | $92K | 380 |
| Maryland | $89K | 180 |
| New Jersey | $87K | 300 |
| Pennsylvania | $83K | 220 |
| Virginia | $83K | N/A |
| Oregon | $80K | N/A |
| Nevada | $79K | 60 |
| Rhode Island | $79K | 30 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a insurance appraisers, auto damage make?▼
The median insurance appraisers, auto damage salary in the United States is $76,650 per year ($37/hour). Entry-level positions start around $56,690, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,800.
What education do you need to become a insurance appraisers, auto damage?▼
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 insurance appraisers, auto damages?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for insurance appraisers, auto damages.
What are the highest paying states for insurance appraisers, auto damages?▼
The highest paying states for insurance appraisers, auto damages are Ohio ($100,920), Washington ($97,550), South Carolina ($91,960), Maryland ($88,700), New Jersey ($87,240). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.