Painter Salary in Illinois
The median painter salary in Illinois is $42,465 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #28 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in Illinois are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $42,465 per year, painters in Illinois earn $2,235 less than the national median of $44,700.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning painter salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $28,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $66,500 — a $38,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $48,276.
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 Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level painter earns around $29,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,700 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Earning $42,465? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,200 |
| Median (50th) | $42,465 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,150 |
| 90th Percentile | $66,500 |
Painter Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for painters in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Illinois
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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