Painter Salary in Virginia
The median painter salary in Virginia is $46,488 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for painter pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $46,488 per year, painters in Virginia earn $1,788 more than the national median of $44,700.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning painter salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $31,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,800 — a $41,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $59,004.
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 Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level painter earns around $32,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,440 |
| Median (50th) | $46,488 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $72,800 |
Painter Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for painters in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Virginia
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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