Painter Salary in South Carolina
The median painter salary in South Carolina is $39,783 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #41 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $39,783 per year, painters in South Carolina earn $4,917 less than the national median of $44,700.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $39,783 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $44,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $26,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $62,300 — a $35,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $46,935.
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 South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level painter earns around $27,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,740 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $39,783? 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 South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,040 |
| Median (50th) | $39,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,730 |
| 90th Percentile | $62,300 |
Painter Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for painters in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in South Carolina
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 237,700 other Painters.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Painter Roles in South Carolina?
Get matched with recruiters hiring painters in South Carolina at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: