Painter Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median painter salary in Salem, OR is $46,935 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 7.1% below the Oregon state average.
Painter Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median painter salary of $46,935, which is $3,576 below the Oregon state average of $50,511. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% 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 Salem 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 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Painter Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, 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 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,800 |
| Median (50th) | $46,935 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,500 |
Painter Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Painter in Salem
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Salem and the surrounding Oregon 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 Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Salem
Browse open painter positions in Salem, OR: