Painter Salary in Helena, Montana
The median painter salary in Helena, MT is $42,912 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 1% below the Montana state average.
Painter Pay in Helena: What to Expect (2026)
Helena offers a median painter salary of $42,912, which is $447 below the Montana state average of $43,359. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Helena pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Helena's cost of living is 94% 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 Helena spans from $28,800 at the 10th percentile to $67,200 at the 90th percentile — a $38,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,760, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $63,360. Helena is a smaller market (pop. 32,315), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Painter Salary in Helena by Experience
In Helena, an entry-level painter earns around $29,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $63,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 94% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Helena, MT
| Percentile | Helena |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,560 |
| Median (50th) | $42,912 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,200 |
Painter Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Painter in Helena
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Helena and the surrounding Montana 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 Helena may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Helena
Browse open painter positions in Helena, MT: