Painter Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median painter salary in Chicago, IL is $47,829 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Painter Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median painter salary of $47,829, which is $5,364 above the Illinois state average of $42,465. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Chicago pays above average for this role.
Chicago's cost of living is 107% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for painters in Chicago spans from $32,100 at the 10th percentile to $74,900 at the 90th percentile — a $42,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,170, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $70,620. As a major metro area with a population of 2,693,976, Chicago typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Painter Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level painter earns around $33,170, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,620 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,520 |
| Median (50th) | $47,829 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $74,900 |
Painter Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Painter in Chicago
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Chicago
Browse open painter positions in Chicago, IL: