Painter Salary in New York
The median painter salary in New York is $54,534 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in New York (2026)
New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for painter compensation. This places New York in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for painters seeking high pay. At $54,534 per year, painters in New York earn $9,834 more than the national median of $44,700.
It's worth noting that New York's cost of living is 122% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $54,534 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $44,700.
The salary spread in New York is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $36,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,400 — a $48,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New York for this role is New York City, where the median reaches $83,589.
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 York by Experience
In New York, an entry-level painter earns around $37,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,520 per year. The cost of living index in New York is 122% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in New York
| Percentile | NY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,920 |
| Median (50th) | $54,534 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,400 |
Painter Salary by City in New York
The largest employment areas for painters in New York include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Yonkers. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in New York
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. New York has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New York
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). New York's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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