Automotive Body and Related Repairer Salary 2025: $54,890 Median, How to Start
The median annual wage for Automotive Body and Related Repairers is $54,890, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% earn over $87,940, while the bottom 10% make around $36,910. Average hourly pay works out to about $26.
How much Automotive Body and Related Repairers earn
Nationally, the median salary sits at $54,890, with a mean of $59,690. Wages generally start near $36,910 for entry-level positions and reach $87,940 for experienced technicians. Overtime and flat-rate pay can push earnings higher, especially in busy shops.
Pay varies significantly by employer type and location. Dealerships and specialized collision centers often pay more than independent shops. Technical skill, certifications, and years in the trade all drive income up.
- Median annual wage: $54,890
- Typical range (10th–90th percentile): $36,910 – $87,940
- Mean hourly wage: ~$26
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state for these repairers is Rhode Island, with an average annual wage of $72,490. California follows at $66,860, then D.C. ($62,640), New Jersey ($62,400), and Alaska ($61,680).
On the lower end, Louisiana averages $47,150, West Virginia $47,090, and Kentucky $46,080. Cost of living partly explains the spread, but demand and union presence also play roles.
How to become Automotive Body and Related Repairer
Most workers learn on the job through apprenticeships or formal training programs. High school or equivalent is the typical minimum requirement.
A common path is completing a certificate or associate degree in collision repair from a technical school or community college. These programs usually take 6 months to 2 years and cover welding, painting, and frame straightening. ASE certification is voluntary but widely respected and can boost pay.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Enroll in a postsecondary program in automotive collision repair or bodywork.
- Complete an apprenticeship or on-the-job training (usually 2–4 years).
- Consider ASE certification to improve job prospects and earning potential.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 1.6% from 2024 to 2034, much slower than the average for all occupations. About 14,600 openings are expected each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. The total workforce sits at 149,310.
Growth is limited because improved vehicle durability and accident-avoidance technology reduce repair frequency. However, replacement of damaged vehicles still requires skilled body repairers, keeping demand steady.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Automotive Body and Related Repairer do?
These workers repair and refinish vehicle bodies and frames, straighten bent frames, replace panels, and apply paint. They may also work on fiberglass or plastic body parts.
Do you need a license to be an auto body repairer?
No license is mandatory, but many employers prefer ASE certification. Some states require a license for paint spraying due to environmental regulations.
Is auto body repair a good career?
It offers a median salary above the national average for all occupations, with no college degree required. The job can be physically demanding, but skilled workers are always needed.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Automotive Body and Related Repairers data.