Painter Salary in Arkansas
The median painter salary in Arkansas is $37,548 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #49 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $37,548 per year, painters in Arkansas earn $7,152 less than the national median of $44,700.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $37,548 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $44,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $25,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $58,800 — a $33,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $39,336.
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for painters across the country.
Painter Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level painter earns around $26,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $55,440 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,240 |
| Median (50th) | $37,548 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $58,800 |
Painter Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for painters in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Arkansas
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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