Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers Salary Guide 2025: $41,600 Median, Job Outlook, and How to Become One
The median salary for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers in the U.S. is $41,600, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023. The mean hourly wage is about $21.74, with a typical annual range between $31,470 (10th percentile) and $60,820 (90th percentile). Employment in this occupation totals 7,940 workers nationwide.
How much Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers earn
The national median salary of $41,600 is a midpoint: half earn more, half earn less. The mean (average) is slightly higher at $45,210, reflecting some higher earners pulling the average up. Hourly wages average about $20, but experienced workers in high-paying states can top $60,000.
Pay varies by industry, experience, and location. Workers in aerospace product manufacturing or automotive repair often earn more than those in general building services.
- 10th percentile: $31,470 per year
- Median: $41,600 per year
- 90th percentile: $60,820 per year
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. Washington tops the list with an average salary of $61,210. Nevada follows at $60,190, then Colorado and Massachusetts at $54,070, and New Jersey at $52,160.
At the low end, Mississippi averages $33,330, Texas $32,430, and South Dakota $31,550. That's nearly a $30,000 gap between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Painting, Coating, and Decorating Worker
Most workers learn through on-the-job training — no formal education beyond a high school diploma is typically required. Apprenticeships or vocational programs in industrial coating or painting are common paths.
Certification is voluntary but can boost employment chances. Organizations like the National Association of Corrosion Engineers offer coating inspector certifications. Some painters seek EPA lead-safe certification for renovation work.
- 1. Get a high school diploma or GED.
- 2. Seek entry-level work or a formal apprenticeship (often 2–4 years).
- 3. Consider voluntary certifications (e.g., NACE Coating Inspector, EPA RRP).
- 4. Gain experience: most skill development is on the job.
Job outlook
The BLS projects slower-than-average employment growth of 1.4% from 2024 to 2034. That means about 800 job openings per year, mostly due to workers retiring or changing occupations. Growth is constrained by automation in some sectors and slower construction activity.
Opportunities will be best for those with specialized skills, such as industrial coating applications or experience with advanced spray equipment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
The mean hourly wage is about $20, according to BLS data. Median hourly pay is approximately $20 per hour.
What states pay Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers the most?
The highest-paying states are Washington ($61,210), Nevada ($60,190), Colorado ($54,070), Massachusetts ($54,070), and New Jersey ($52,160).
Is there a high demand for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
Demand is slow: the occupation is projected to grow only 1.4% over the next decade, slower than average. However, about 800 openings per year will still exist due to turnover.
Can I become a Painting, Coating, and Decorating Worker without experience?
Yes. Most employers provide on-the-job training. A high school diploma is typically the minimum requirement.
What are the earning opportunities for top workers?
Workers in the top 10% earn over $60,820 per year. Those in high-paying states or specialized industries can reach higher.
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 Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers data.