Painter Salary in Washington
The median painter salary in Washington is $53,193 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #6 out of 50 states for painter compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for painters seeking high pay. At $53,193 per year, painters in Washington earn $8,493 more than the national median of $44,700.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $53,193 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $46,255.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $35,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $83,300 — a $47,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $69,732.
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 Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level painter earns around $36,890, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,540 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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Earning $53,193? 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 Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,840 |
| Median (50th) | $53,193 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,830 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,300 |
Painter Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for painters in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Washington
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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