Painter Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median painter salary in Tacoma, WA is $50,958 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median and 4.2% below the Washington state average.
Painter Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median painter salary of $50,958, which is $2,235 below the Washington state average of $53,193. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $34,200 at the 10th percentile to $79,800 at the 90th percentile — a $45,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,340, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,240. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Painter Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level painter earns around $35,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,040 |
| Median (50th) | $50,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $79,800 |
Painter Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Painter in Tacoma
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open painter positions in Tacoma, WA: