Painter Salary in Iowa
The median painter salary in Iowa is $39,783 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $39,783 per year, painters in Iowa earn $4,917 less than the national median of $44,700.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $39,783 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $44,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $26,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $62,300 — a $35,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Iowa for this role is Iowa City, where the median reaches $42,465.
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 Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level painter earns around $27,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,740 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $39,783? 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 Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,040 |
| Median (50th) | $39,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,730 |
| 90th Percentile | $62,300 |
Painter Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for painters in Iowa include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Sioux City. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Iowa
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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