Painter Salary in Wisconsin
The median painter salary in Wisconsin is $41,124 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $44,700.
Painter Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #35 out of 50 states for painter compensation. Painter salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $41,124 per year, painters in Wisconsin earn $3,576 less than the national median of $44,700.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $41,124 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $44,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: painters at the 10th percentile earn $27,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $64,400 — a $36,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $44,700.
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 Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level painter earns around $28,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,720 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin
| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,120 |
| Median (50th) | $41,124 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $64,400 |
Painter Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for painters in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Painter in Wisconsin
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, painter employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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