Painter Salary in Hawaii
The median painter salary in Hawaii is $79,566 per year, which is 78.0% above the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for painter compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for painters seeking high pay. At $79,566 per year, painters in Hawaii earn $34,866 more than the national median of $44,700.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $79,566 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $46,804.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $53,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $124,600 — a $71,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $81,801.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level painter earns around $55,180, while experienced professionals earn up to $117,480 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,080 |
| Median (50th) | $79,566 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,460 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,600 |
Painter Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for painters in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Hawaii
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Painters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $37,914 over your career trajectory.
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