Painter Salary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The median painter salary in Milwaukee, WI is $41,124 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 0.0% above the Wisconsin state average.
Painter Pay in Milwaukee: What to Expect (2026)
Milwaukee offers a median painter salary of $41,124, which is $0 above the Wisconsin state average of $41,124. Compared to the national median of $44,700, Milwaukee pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Milwaukee's cost of living is 92% 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 Milwaukee spans from $27,600 at the 10th percentile to $64,400 at the 90th percentile — a $36,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,520, while senior painters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $60,720. As a major metro area with a population of 577,222, Milwaukee typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Painter Salary in Milwaukee by Experience
In Milwaukee, an entry-level painter earns around $28,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,720 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Milwaukee, WI
| Percentile | Milwaukee |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,120 |
| Median (50th) | $41,124 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $64,400 |
Painter Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Painter in Milwaukee
Education
Most painter positions require a high school diploma. Milwaukee and the surrounding Wisconsin 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 Milwaukee may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Painter Jobs in Milwaukee
Browse open painter positions in Milwaukee, WI: