Painter Salary in New Jersey
The median painter salary in New Jersey is $51,405 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states for painter compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for painters seeking high pay. At $51,405 per year, painters in New Jersey earn $6,705 more than the national median of $44,700.
It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $51,405 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $44,700.
The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $34,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $80,500 — a $46,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $57,216.
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 New Jersey by Experience
In New Jersey, an entry-level painter earns around $35,650, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,900 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.
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Earning $51,405? 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 New Jersey
| Percentile | NJ Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,400 |
| Median (50th) | $51,405 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,500 |
Painter Salary by City in New Jersey
The largest employment areas for painters in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in New Jersey
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New Jersey
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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