Painter Salary in Montana
The median painter salary in Montana is $43,359 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #22 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Montana falls in the middle of the pack for painter pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $43,359 per year, painters in Montana earn $1,341 less than the national median of $44,700.
Montana'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 Montana is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $29,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $67,900 — a $38,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Montana for this role is Bozeman, where the median reaches $52,299.
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 Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level painter earns around $30,070, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,020 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $43,359? 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 Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,920 |
| Median (50th) | $43,359 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,290 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,900 |
Painter Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for painters in Montana include Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Montana
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 237,700 other Painters.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Painter Roles in Montana?
Get matched with recruiters hiring painters in Montana at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: