Painter Salary in Iowa City, Iowa
The median painter salary in Iowa City, IA is $42,465 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 6.7% above the Iowa state average.
Painter Pay in Iowa City: What to Expect (2026)
Iowa City offers a median painter salary of $42,465, which is $2,682 above the Iowa state average of $39,783. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Iowa City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Iowa City's cost of living is 95% 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 Iowa City spans from $28,500 at the 10th percentile to $66,500 at the 90th percentile — a $38,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,450, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $62,700. Iowa City is a smaller market (pop. 74,828), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Painter Salary in Iowa City by Experience
In Iowa City, an entry-level painter earns around $29,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Iowa City, IA
| Percentile | Iowa City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,200 |
| Median (50th) | $42,465 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,150 |
| 90th Percentile | $66,500 |
Painter Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Painter in Iowa City
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Iowa City and the surrounding Iowa 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 Iowa City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Iowa City
Browse open painter positions in Iowa City, IA: