Painter Salary in Missouri
The median painter salary in Missouri is $39,336 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #43 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $39,336 per year, painters in Missouri earn $5,364 less than the national median of $44,700.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $39,336 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $44,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $26,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $61,600 — a $35,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $41,124.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level painter earns around $27,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,080 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,680 |
| Median (50th) | $39,336 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $61,600 |
Painter Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for painters in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Missouri
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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