Painting as a career: Provides stable jobs for Americans aged 45 and over $17.55 to $24.04/hr
Are you looking for a stable job that values life experience? Salaries start at approximately $17.55 - $24.04 per hour, ffering steady full-time work with regular schedules,This skilled trade offers steady demand, competitive wages, and a clear path to advancement-even for those without prior experience.
Why Choose Painting?
Painting is a hands-on profession that transforms homes, offices, and commercial buildings by applying paint and coatings to surfaces. It’s a job where your work is visible and appreciated every day. Key benefits include:
Competitive Pay: As of 2024, the average hourly wage for painters in the U.S. is about $21.82, with many earning between $17.50 and $24.00 per hour depending on experience and location. Top earners can make up to $29–$33 per hour or more. Annual salaries typically range from $36,000 to $60,000, with specialized roles paying even higher.
Steady Job Outlook: Employment for painters is projected to grow about 4% from 2023 to 2033, matching the average growth rate across all occupations. Approximately 28,000 job openings are expected annually, driven by new demand and retirements.
Flexible Work Environment: Painters work both indoors and outdoors on residential and commercial projects. The work schedule is often full-time, Monday through Friday, with 40–50 hours per week and potential for overtime during busy seasons.
No Formal Education Required: Most painters learn on the job through training programs or apprenticeships. A willingness to learn, reliability, and physical fitness are more important than formal credentials.
Benefits of the Job
Besides the competitive pay, working as a painter offers several benefits that can lead to long-term career stability:
Paid time off and holidays
Health and dental insurance (may vary by employer)
Opportunities for advancement, such as moving into lead roles or gaining certifications (like OSHA-10 or lift training)
A chance to develop specialty skills that increase your earning potential
What Does a Painter Do?
Painters transform spaces by preparing and applying paint to walls, ceilings, trims, and exteriors in both residential and commercial settings. The job involves:
Preparing surfaces through sanding, patching, and masking
Applying primers, paints, or specialty coatings using brushes, rollers, or sprayers
Following design plans and client preferences
Maintaining clean and safe work areas
Collaborating with other construction professionals
This hands-on work not only beautifies spaces but also offers a tangible sense of accomplishment at the end of each day.
Why Choose Painting?
Painting is a trade that balances physical activity with skill and creativity. It requires attention to detail, steady hands, and a willingness to learn. Here’s why painting stands out as a career choice:
Good pay: Hourly wages typically range from $17.55 - $24.04, with top earners making even more.
Stable schedule: Most jobs offer full-time hours, Monday through Friday, with 40–50 hours weekly.
Job security: Demand for painters remains steady year-round, especially during spring through fall.
Skill development: Opportunities exist to learn specialty finishes like cabinet painting or decorative work.
Career growth: Many painters advance to lead roles or supervisory positions with higher pay.
Local work: Jobs usually don’t require long-distance travel, allowing for a balanced lifestyle.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Experienced painters can move into supervisory or specialized roles such as Industrial Painting Supervisor or Senior Painter, earning salaries upwards of $46,510 to $66,821 annually. These positions offer higher pay and more responsibility, making painting a viable long-term career.
Real-Life Example
Kevin, a 24-year-old painter from San Diego, started with no experience but quickly advanced after six months of full-time work and training. He appreciates the satisfaction of transforming spaces and the solid pay the job provides.
How to Start
If you want to become a painter:
Search for local painting companies or job boards offering entry-level positions.
Apply online with basic information about your work history and availability.
Be prepared to learn on the job and show reliability and a strong work ethic.
Many employers provide paid training, so prior experience is not always necessary.
Conclusion
Painting offers a stable, well-paying career path for Americans 45 and older who want to work in a skilled trade with visible results. With steady demand, competitive wages, and opportunities for growth, painting can provide financial security and personal satisfaction.