Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 8,470 painting, coating, and decorating workers, and they earn a median of $40,860/year. The range runs from $28K to $63K. New York pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level painting, coating, and decorating workers start around $28K. The gap between that and the median ($41K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $63K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $68K | 510 |
| Washington | $61K | 100 |
| Massachusetts | $52K | 250 |
| Illinois | $51K | 50 |
| New Jersey | $51K | 200 |
| Georgia | $49K | 150 |
| Kentucky | $48K | 90 |
| Virginia | $46K | 260 |
| Maryland | $46K | 80 |
| New Hampshire | $45K | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a painting, coating, and decorating workers make?▼
The median painting, coating, and decorating workers salary in the United States is $40,860 per year ($20/hour). Entry-level positions start around $28,490, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,770.
What education do you need to become a painting, coating, and decorating workers?▼
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 painting, coating, and decorating workers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for painting, coating, and decorating workers.
What are the highest paying states for painting, coating, and decorating workers?▼
The highest paying states for painting, coating, and decorating workers are New York ($68,140), Washington ($61,270), Massachusetts ($52,320), Illinois ($51,270), New Jersey ($50,700). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.