As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Painter III in the United States is $58,601 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, a Painter III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Painter III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Painter III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Painter I | 0-1 years | $45,657 |
| Painter II | 1-3 years | $52,276 |
| Painter III | 3-5 years | $58,601 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Painter IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail | 3.85% |
| Housekeeping | 1.08% |
| Installation | 0.92% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Leadership
|
$62,117 |
6%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Painter IIIs enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Painter III with a No Diploma is between $56,795 and $62,146).
Painter III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 5.8% |
| High School | 73.3% |
| Associates | 10.5% |
| Bachelors | 7.0% |
| Masters | 3.5% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Painter III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Salaries for a Painter III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $55,698 in 2023 to around $55,304 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Painter III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $55,698 |
| 2024 | $55,895 |
| 2025 | $55,304 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Painter III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Painter III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Painter III is $73,913.
The highest pay for Painter III is $68,879.
The lowest pay for Painter III is $49,225.
Applies paint, varnishes, stains and other coatings to interior and/or exterior surfaces with brush, roller or other tools. Prepares surfaces for painting by removing old paint using paint removers, scrapers, wire brushes, or blowtorches. Fills nail holes, cracks, and joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers using a caulking gun or a putty knife. Prepares paint and primers and matches colors. May prepare estimates of work time and cost. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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