Painter Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median painter salary in Paterson, NJ is $46,935 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Painter Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median painter salary of $46,935, which is $4,470 below the New Jersey state average of $51,405. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $31,500 at the 10th percentile to $73,500 at the 90th percentile — a $42,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,550, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $69,300. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Painter Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level painter earns around $32,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,800 |
| Median (50th) | $46,935 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,500 |
Painter Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Painter in Paterson
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Paterson
Browse open painter positions in Paterson, NJ: