Painters, Construction and Maintenance: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 224,180 painters, construction and maintenances, and they earn a median of $48,660/year. The range runs from $37K to $77K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level painters, construction and maintenances start around $37K. The gap between that and the median ($49K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $77K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $68K | 1,630 |
| Alaska | $66K | 400 |
| Illinois | $62K | 6,700 |
| Minnesota | $61K | 3,480 |
| New Jersey | $60K | 4,230 |
| District of Columbia | $60K | 420 |
| Washington | $59K | 8,820 |
| California | $57K | 37,780 |
| North Dakota | $57K | 460 |
| Maine | $56K | 1,950 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a painters, construction and maintenance make?▼
The median painters, construction and maintenance salary in the United States is $48,660 per year ($23/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,550.
What education do you need to become a painters, construction and maintenance?▼
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 painters, construction and maintenances?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for painters, construction and maintenances.
What are the highest paying states for painters, construction and maintenances?▼
The highest paying states for painters, construction and maintenances are Hawaii ($67,620), Alaska ($65,610), Illinois ($62,390), Minnesota ($60,900), New Jersey ($60,290). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.